The fascinating marine life of Gran Canaria
The sighting of a hammerhead shark at Melenara Beach in Gran Canaria, a few days ago, was a remarkable event that captivated the public and highlighted the complex relationship between humans and marine life.
Through swift action, expert insights, and increased public awareness, the community responded with resilience and curiosity.
As we move forward, understanding and respecting the ocean’s inhabitants remains crucial for the safety and enjoyment of all who visit these beautiful shores.
Gran Canaria is home to a variety of shark species, with the angel shark being the most commonly seen during diving activities. These sharks can be found in shallow waters near the coast and pose no threat to humans. In fact, conservation efforts are crucial for the protection of these fascinating creatures.
Shark attacks in Gran Canaria are rare, and safety measures are in place for swimmers and divers in shark-inhabited waters.
In this post, we aim to provide you with insights on how to enjoy shark sightings responsibly while respecting marine life and their habitats.
The Variety of Shark Species Found in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria’s waters are teeming with different shark species, adding to the richness of the marine environment. Among the most commonly seen sharks is the angel shark, known for its distinctive appearance and docile nature. Angel sharks are flat-bodied sharks that can grow up to 2.4 meters in length and are typically found buried in sandy coastal habitats.The family Squatinidae, to which angel sharks belong, is the second most threatened family of elasmobranchs (sharks, skates, and rays) globally. Among them are three notable species: Squatina aculeata (sawback angel shark), and Squatina oculata (smoothback angel shark) and Squatina squatina (our angel shark).
The angel shark is often spotted in shallow waters near the coast, providing divers with the opportunity to observe this unique creature up close.
Other shark species, such as the hammerhead shark and the shortfin mako shark, also inhabit the waters of Gran Canaria. However, sightings of these species are much rarer, especially while diving, because they are very shy and elusive.
The Behaviour And Habitat Of Sharks In The Waters Of Gran Canaria
Sharks in Gran Canaria exhibit varying behaviours and prefer different habitats within the island’s waters.
The angel shark, for example, can often be found resting on the seabed, camouflaging itself among the sand and rocks and sometimes swimming around. During the mating season from November to February, angel sharks may exhibit slightly more aggressive behavior if disturbed.
From May to July, miniature angel pups are born, showcasing impressive similarities to their adult counterparts.
Sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem, contributing to the health and diversity of marine life in Gran Canaria.
Understanding the behaviour and habitat preferences of sharks is essential for their conservation and protection in the region.
The Importance Of Conservation Efforts For Shark Species
Conservation efforts are paramount for the long-term survival of shark species in Gran Canaria and beyond. Threats such as overfishing and habitat destruction pose significant risks to the shark populations in the region.
Collaborative conservation initiatives are crucial for safeguarding the future of sharks in Gran Canaria, ensuring that these magnificent creatures continue to thrive in their natural environment.
Understanding Shark Attacks in the Canary Islands
Since records began around the year 1500, there have been 3,349 shark attacks worldwide. Surprisingly, only thirteen of these incidents have occurred in Spain.
More than half of these, seven in total, were reported in the Canary Islands, according to data from the International Shark Attack File at the Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida.
Of the thirteen attacks recorded in Spain, only one proved fatal, occurring in the Balearic Islands in 1902. In the Canary Islands, according to the same source, seven attacks have been documented over the years: four in Gran Canaria, one in Tenerife, and another in Fuerteventura, with a seventh whose exact location is unspecified.
Although sharks are present in the waters surrounding these islands, documented cases of shark attacks on humans are few and far between.
The limited number of incidents can be attributed to the sharks’ natural behaviour and the respect for marine life by local communities.
How Shark Attacks in Gran Canaria Have Been Managed
In Gran Canaria, the management of shark attacks has been handled with a proactive approach. Authorities have implemented protocols to monitor shark activity and ensure the safety of swimmers and divers.
By educating the public about shark behaviour and the importance of coexisting with these marine creatures, Gran Canaria has successfully mitigated the risk of shark attacks, maintaining a harmonious relationship between humans and sharks in its waters.
Safety Measures for Swimming and Diving in Shark-inhabited Waters
Ensuring safety in marine environments, particularly regarding potential encounters with sharks, requires following specific guidelines and taking precautions.
Whether you’re swimming, diving, or enjoying beachside activities, it’s essential to prioritize personal safety and respect the natural habitats of marine creatures like sharks.
By following designated protocols and heeding expert advice, you can minimize risks and enhance your experience in the water.
- Always swim or dive in designated areas monitored by lifeguards.
- Respect warning signs about shark activity and follow instructions from authorities.
- Avoid swimming or diving alone, especially in areas known for shark presence.
- Do not approach or provoke sharks, and maintain a safe distance if encountered.
- Follow safety guidelines provided by local diving centres.
Best Practices for Shark Encounters in Gran Canaria
Tips for Responsible Diving and Snorkelling Around Sharks
When diving or snorkelling in Gran Canaria, it is essential to follow responsible practices to ensure the safety of both yourself and the marine life. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Always maintain a safe distance from sharks and avoid direct contact with them.
- Avoid feeding or provoking sharks, as this can disrupt their natural behaviour.
- Respect the marine environment by not littering or disturbing the underwater ecosystem.
Are you curious about sharks, their behavior, and what you can do to protect these magnificent creatures?
In the SSI Shark Ecology program, you will learn to interpret shark behaviors, understand why they are often misunderstood, and how to safely dive with them.
This course is perfect for shark enthusiasts and divers who want to overcome their fear of these magnificent creatures.
How to Spot Different Shark Species in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is home to various shark species, each with unique characteristics and habitats. Here are some tips on how to identify different shark species in the waters of Gran Canaria.
Angel shark
There are distinctive features of the angel shark (Squatina Squatina), such as its flat body and wide fins that resemble a ray.
Its caudal fin has a lower lobe that is slightly longer than the upper one, and They have two small, spineless dorsal fins located behind the pelvic fins. Adult males have two structures called claspers beneath the pelvic fins.
Hammerhead shark
Identify the hammerhead shark by its unique head shape, which resembles a hammer.
In the Canary Islands, hammerhead sharks are known as “cornudas.” So far, two of the nine known species have been recorded there: the scalloped hammerhead (Sphyrna Lewini) and the smooth hammerhead (Sphyrna Zygaena).
Mako shark
Spotting the mako shark (Isurus Oxyrinchusis) is quite unusual for scuba divers. Sometimes, they get close to spearfishers attracted by their catches.
They have a streamlined body, pointed snout, crescent-shaped tail, and long, slender teeth. Their coloration ranges from bluish-gray to deep blue on their backs, while their undersides are white.
Galapagos Shark
The Galapagos shark (Carcharhinus Galapagensis) is large and has a slender, elongated, streamlined body.
It features a tall, straight first dorsal fin that starts over the posterior third of the inner margin of the pectoral fin. Its long pelvic fins are straight with pointed tips.
The shark also has a broadly rounded snout. It is brownish-grey on top and white underneath. These unique physical traits make the Galapagos shark easily recognizable when swimming in the water.
Exploring the waters of Gran Canaria presents a rare chance to encounter a diverse range of shark species, a sought-after experience for many divers.
By following responsible diving practices and respecting their natural habitats, enthusiasts can safely enjoy thrilling encounters with these captivating creatures while actively supporting their conservation efforts.
Looking ahead, nurturing a greater appreciation and reverence for marine life is crucial to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone who explores the stunning shores of Gran Canaria.
If you’re captivated by the idea of exploring the vibrant marine world of Gran Canaria, Brothers Diving invites you to experience the ocean like never before. Our skilled team will guide you on thrilling underwater adventures, where you’ll encounter a diverse array of fascinating sea creatures. With a commitment to safety and marine conservation, we offer unforgettable experiences that foster respect and wonder for the ocean’s most majestic inhabitants.
Dive with us and discover the beauty that lies beneath the waves!
