David Bridges
Recent research suggests that shark bites may not be as dangerous as previously believed, indicating that many incidents might actually be misunderstood. A new study published today reveals that a significant portion of shark attacks on humans could be categorized as a defensive response rather than an act of predation.
Marine biologists from France spearheaded this groundbreaking research, which appears in Frontiers in Conservation Science. By meticulously analyzing global shark bite data, the scientists estimate that around 5% of reported shark-on-human incidents are purely defensive, suggesting that these occurrences are protective actions rather than attempts to catch prey. This vital information could play a crucial role in enhancing shark bite prevention strategies, as highlighted by the researchers.
Leading the research, Eric Clua, a renowned shark specialist at PSL University, was motivated by firsthand observations during his field studies in French Polynesia. He frequently encountered fishermen who would kill sharks that had inadvertently found themselves trapped in fish pens. Often, these sharks would bite the fishermen when the latter tried to capture or kill them, leading Clua to explore the motivations behind such interactions further.
Clua also gathered reports of accidental shark bites on underwater spearfishermen, where the sharks seemed to react aggressively only to protect their territory and prey from perceived threats. These observations spurred Clua’s quest to model the self-defense mechanism that the study outlines, emphasizing that the responsibility for these incidents often lies with humans rather than the sharks themselves.
To understand the dynamics of shark bites better, the researchers analyzed data from recorded incidents in French Polynesia, focusing on cases where the motivations behind the bites were documented. Between 2009 and 2023, they identified 74 cases of shark bites in the region. From this analysis, they concluded that four of these incidents, constituting 5% of the total, likely involved defensive behaviors by the sharks.
Clua and his research team extended their investigation to the Global Shark Attack Files, which chronicle nearly 7,000 shark bites since 1863. They scrutinized incidents classified as provoked, where humans were in close contact with sharks, and found that approximately 5% of these cases—totaling 322 bites—fit the criteria for self-defense.
The criteria for identifying a defensive bite include instances where sharks bite immediately following a human action perceived as aggressive. The research also revealed that these bites tend to be repeated but result in superficial, non-lethal wounds. Interestingly, a defensive bite from a shark may appear disproportionately violent compared to the human action that provoked it. For example, a stranded shark might bite aggressively in response to a human trying to return it to the water. According to Clua, this reaction could reflect the shark’s desperation to survive.
“The findings from this research affirm that sharks have the right to defend themselves just like any creature when their survival is threatened,” Clua remarked. “Moreover, it is counter-intuitive but crucial to understand that intervening to help a shark in distress may not be perceived positively and could provoke an aggressive reaction.”
By shedding light on the complex motivations behind shark bites, the research team aims to reduce the occurrence of such incidents. They advocate for individuals to avoid interacting with or approaching sharks, even if those creatures appear harmless or in distress. It is also advisable to swim in groups of at least two people in areas known to be inhabited by sharks, as this strategy can significantly lower the risk of a predatory attack. Clua emphasizes that unlike some terrestrial predators, remaining still in the water will not deter a predatory shark, so it is vital to be prepared to defend yourself if necessary.
Interestingly, the researchers point out that sharks generally harbor a natural fear of humans, which contributes to the rarity of shark bites. Even among such occurrences, fatalities are exceedingly uncommon compared to other animal-human interactions.
In 2024, for instance, only 88 shark bites were reported globally, resulting in just seven fatalities. In stark contrast, hippos are estimated to be responsible for the deaths of around 500 people annually. Moreover, when considering the various diseases spread by certain animals, such as mosquito-borne malaria—which alone claims over half a million lives each year—the perceived danger from sharks is often overstated. Therefore, while it remains essential to exercise caution in waters where sharks may reside, it is equally crucial to temper the narrative surrounding the risks of shark bites.
“Beyond our aim to reduce shark bites in the field, we hope this study will shift perceptions and attitudes among journalists, encouraging a more nuanced examination of the circumstances surrounding these bites. Instead of automatically attributing blame to sharks, we wish to highlight human responsibility in these interactions,” Clua expressed.
The research team intends to continue investigating various types of shark bites, including those driven by exploratory behaviors, where sharks might bite humans to assess their viability as prey.
