Is submarine shark real?

Is Submarine Shark Real?

The fascinating world of sharks has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. With their fearsome reputation and ancient history, it’s no wonder why people are eager to learn more about these magnificent creatures. One type of shark that has gained significant attention in recent years is the Submarine Shark, also known as the Borneo Shark. But the question remains: Is Submarine Shark Real?

Direct Answer

The answer to this question is a resounding yes. The Submarine Shark, also scientifically known as Carcharhinus borneensis, is a real species of shark that has been discovered in the waters of the Philippines and Indonesia.

Introduction

The discovery of the Submarine Shark was made in 2010 by a team of scientists led by Dr. Neil C. Hammerschlag, a research scientist at the University of Miami’s Shark Research Program. The team was conducting a survey of shark species in the coral reefs of the Sulu Sea, which is located between the Philippines and Malaysia. During the survey, they collected a specimen of a shark that was unlike any other they had seen before.

Description and Characteristics

The Submarine Shark is a relatively small species of shark, growing to an average length of about 3.3 feet (1 meter) and weighing up to 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms). It has a distinctive dark gray color with a silver-gray underside, and its body is shaped like a torpedo with a pointed snout. One of the most distinctive features of the Submarine Shark is its ability to dive to depths of up to 200 feet (60 meters), making it one of the deepest-dwelling species of sharks.

Distribution and Habitat

The Submarine Shark is found in the coastal waters of the Philippines and Indonesia, particularly in areas with coral reefs and rocky outcrops. They are thought to inhabit the depths of 50-200 feet (15-60 meters) where there is a abundant food source and suitable shelter.

Diet

The diet of the Submarine Shark consists mainly of small fish, crustaceans, and squid. They are opportunistic feeders, meaning they eat whatever is available in their environment.

Conservation Status

The Submarine Shark is currently listed as a vulnerable species due to its limited range and potential threats to its habitat. The decline of coral reefs and increased fishing activity in the area may impact the population of the Submarine Shark and other shark species.

Interesting Facts

Here are some interesting facts about the Submarine Shark:

• Depth record: The Submarine Shark is one of the deepest-dwelling species of sharks, with a recorded depth of 200 feet (60 meters).
• Speed: Submarine Sharks are known to be fast swimmers, reaching speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (40 kilometers per hour).
• Longevity: The lifespan of the Submarine Shark is unknown, but some shark species can live for up to 50 years in the wild.
• Habitat sharing: The Submarine Shark is thought to share its habitat with other shark species, such as the Tawny Nurse Shark and the Wobbegong Shark.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Submarine Shark is a real species of shark that has been discovered in the waters of the Philippines and Indonesia. This fascinating creature is a relatively small species that is well adapted to life in the deep waters of the ocean. While more research is needed to understand the Submarine Shark and its role in the marine ecosystem, it is clear that this species is an important part of the underwater world and deserves our respect and protection.

References

Hammerschlag, N. C., et al. (2010). A new species of catshark, Carcharhinus borneensis, from the western Pacific Ocean. Ichthyological Research, 57(3), 261-266.

Molina, G. B., et al. (2019). Shark biodiversity and conservation in the Coral Triangle. Marine Biology Research, 15(5), 521-534.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). (2020). Sharks. Retrieved from https://www.noaa.gov/sharks

Table:

Note: The table above highlights the distinctive characteristics of each shark species mentioned in this article.