Unseen Danger Surfacing in the Salish Sea: Shark Species
In the expansive realm of temperate waters, the soupfin shark, specifically the species Galeorhinus galeus, has been a familiar sight. Yet, its presence in the Salish Sea, a rich marine ecosystem straddling the coasts of British Columbia, Canada, and Washington State, USA, was not historically acknowledged. This region, historically devoid of soupfin sharks, was only reported to be an occasional stopping point for these sharks through sporadic strandings or the aforementioned commercial catch in 2016.
Over the last few years, however, anecdotal reports from recreational fishers hinted at the emergence of soupfin sharks and broadnose sevengill sharks in South Puget Sound, an area more than 186 miles away from previous strandings. This intriguing development sparked the curiosity of local scientists, who launched a multi-agency study to shed light on the possibility of a temporary anomaly or a broader range expansion.
Led by marine researcher Ethan M. Personius of Coastal Oregon Marine Experiment Station, Oregon State University, the team zeroed in on Hammersley Inlet, a dynamic and complex channel with strong currents and deep water pockets. This location was ideal for monitoring shark activity due to its geographical features, making it a potential haven for these elusive predators.
Equipped with both vessel-based and shore-based fishing methods, the scientists embarked on a quest to confirm the presence of soupfin sharks and investigate the factors influencing their occurrence. Over several field excursions, they employed multi-hook droplines and shore-based tackle, strategically positioning bait to attract sharks without disrupting local species or scavengers. They also collected data on salinity, temperature, and tidal flow to explore potential environmental influences on shark presence.
And so, their persistence paid off. During their investigations, they captured a mature male soupfin shark, matching the species' known characteristics and measured at a length of 60.2 inches (153 cm). This confirmed sighting marked the first scientifically substantiated discovery of soupfin sharks in South Puget Sound, expanding the known range of this species in the Salish Sea.
This singular observation has far-reaching implications for the region's ecosystem dynamics. While it is premature to accept the presence of an established population, the researchers suggest that it could be the initial detection of a cryptic population of highly mobile soupfin sharks within the Salish Sea. Regardless, the ecosystem-based fisheries models employed in the region need to consider the potential impact of a novel marine predator like the soupfin shark.
Future research endeavors will help clarify whether the soupfin sharks' presence in the Salish Sea is a temporary or more permanent occurrence. Continued monitoring, tagging efforts, and environmental assessments are crucial to determining the underlying causes of this unexpected discovery. Whether due to habitat changes, food availability, migration patterns, or conservation efforts, understanding these factors will provide vital insights into the sharks' presence in the Salish Sea.
The sighting of a mature soupfin shark in Hammersley Inlet, a portion of South Puget Sound, was a significant finding for local scientists, as it represented the first scientifically substantiated discovery of this species in the area. This discovery expands the known range of soupfin sharks in the Salish Sea, which straddles the coasts of British Columbia, Canada, and Washington State, USA.
The presence of soupfin sharks in the Salish Sea is not without implications for the region's wildlife. Given the soupfin shark's status as a highly mobile predator, it is crucial for ecosystem-based fisheries models in the area to consider its potential impact.
The researchers behind the study suggest that the discovery of soupfin sharks in South Puget Sound could indicate the initial detection of a cryptic population within the Salish Sea. However, it is too early to determine whether their presence is a temporary or more permanent occurrence.
Further research is necessary to understand the underlying causes of this unexpected discovery. Continued monitoring, tagging efforts, and environmental assessments will provide essential insights into habitat changes, food availability, migration patterns, or conservation efforts that may be influencing the presence of soupfin sharks in the Salish Sea.
