Sharktopus: Scientists Spot Octopus Riding A Shark

Credit: Wednesday Davis

In a display of nature’s unpredictability, a shark giving an octopus a ride was captured on video during a research expedition led by University of Auckland marine scientist Professor Rochelle Constantine in awe.

Dubbed a “sharktopus,” this unusual pairing was spotted in the Hauraki Gulf, off the coast of New Zealand, and has been hailed as one of the strangest sights in Constantine’s career.

The discovery, which occurred during a research expedition, revealed a Maori octopus perched atop a short-fin mako shark—an encounter that defies typical marine behavior.

“Octopuses are mostly found on the seabed, while short-fin mako sharks tend to avoid the deep,” Constantine explained. The unexpected meeting of these two species, captured on video, has scientists marveling at the mysteries still hidden beneath the waves.

Constantine, a professor in the School of Biological Sciences, described the find as a vivid reminder of the ocean‘s wonders. “This ‘sharktopus’ shows how much there is left to discover,” she said. The mako shark, known as the fastest shark species in the world, appeared unbothered by its unusual passenger.

Beyond its novelty, Constantine emphasized that supporting initiatives to protect ocean ecosystems is crucial to preserving such remarkable interactions. “By safeguarding these waters, we ensure that extraordinary moments like this can continue to happen,” she said.

.The “sharktopus” footage, recorded near Kawau Island in December 2023 and recently shared with the public, has captivated ocean enthusiasts worldwide.