Many people wonder about the presence of sharks in Greece’s clear waters. While the marine ecosystems, including the Aegean and Ionian Seas, host various shark species, human encounters are remarkably infrequent. Understanding their natural behavior and habitats clarifies why interactions with swimmers are rare.
Sharks are Present in Greek Waters
Sharks are part of the diverse marine ecosystem throughout the Mediterranean Sea, including Greek waters. Recent studies have documented thousands of shark and ray sightings, identifying at least 33 shark species in Greek seas over the past ninety years. These waters offer suitable conditions due to their warm temperatures and abundant marine life.
Sharks typically occupy specific areas and depths, preferring deeper offshore waters or areas with natural prey. They generally remain away from shallow tourist beaches. The presence of sharks in these deeper, less frequented zones contributes to the low likelihood of human encounters in coastal areas.
Common Species Found in the Aegean and Ionian Seas
Greek waters are home to several shark species. The Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) is commonly observed, recognized by its slender body and long pectoral fins. These pelagic sharks primarily inhabit open and deeper waters, occasionally venturing closer to the coast, typically reaching lengths of around 10 feet. Their diet mainly consists of squid, fish, and smaller sharks.
The Shortfin Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) is known for its remarkable speed and agility in the water. These powerful predators usually measure between 6 to 7 feet but can grow up to 12 feet long and weigh over 1,200 pounds. Shortfin Makos prefer tropical and temperate offshore waters, feeding on bony fish like tuna and swordfish, and cephalopods.
Smaller, bottom-dwelling sharks, such as various catsharks and dogfish, are also found. These species are generally considered harmless to humans due to their size and docile nature.
While the Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) has been sighted, particularly in the Ionian Sea, these occurrences are rare. They are not common in Greek waters, as warmer temperatures and limited food sources do not align with their preferred habitat.
Other species include the Thresher Shark (Alopias vulpinus), which prefers open waters and tends to avoid coastal regions, and the Basking Shark, the world’s second-largest shark, which feeds exclusively on plankton. Deepwater species like the Bluntnose Sixgill Shark (Hexanchus griseus) also inhabit the region, known for their large size and unique anatomy.
Understanding the Low Risk of Encounters
Interactions between sharks and humans in Greek waters are exceptionally rare. Historical data indicates a very low number of recorded shark incidents, with only 15 identified over the last 180 years, and no confirmed incidents in the past three decades. This rarity contrasts sharply with other global regions, underscoring the minimal threat sharks pose to swimmers in Greece.
Sharks do not typically perceive humans as prey; people are not part of their natural diet. Incidents, when they occur, are often attributed to mistaken identity, where a shark might confuse a swimmer or a surfboard with natural prey. Sharks generally have abundant natural food sources and prefer to avoid human activity, inhabiting deeper waters away from popular swimming zones.
The low likelihood of encounters is also influenced by the declining shark populations in the Mediterranean Sea. For those enjoying the water, basic safety practices can further minimize any potential risk. Avoiding swimming at dawn or dusk, times when some shark species are more active, and staying away from areas with active fishing can contribute to a safer experience.