Sharks are present in Maltese waters, though their presence is often misunderstood. While sightings of larger species are rare, the Mediterranean Sea, including the waters around Malta, is home to a diverse array of shark species. This article clarifies their actual presence and interaction with humans.
Historical Presence and Declining Populations
Sharks were once more prevalent in the Mediterranean Sea, including the areas surrounding Malta. Historical accounts, such as the 16th-century Maltese folklore of the ‘silfjun,’ suggest a past with more frequent encounters with large sharks. Evidence of prehistoric large sharks, like Megalodon, is found in fossilized teeth in Malta’s limestone, indicating their long history in the region.
Over the last two centuries, large shark populations in the Mediterranean Sea have declined significantly, with some studies indicating a reduction of over 97 percent. This drastic decline is primarily due to overfishing, a major threat to shark populations. Habitat degradation, including coastal development and pollution, also contributes to diminishing numbers by impacting feeding and breeding grounds. The Mediterranean is considered one of the most exploited fisheries, making its shark species particularly vulnerable.
Shark Species in Maltese Waters
Approximately 35 to 36 shark species have been documented in Maltese waters. Among the most historically significant is the Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias), though it is now extremely rare. A notable event occurred in 1987 when local fisherman Alfredo Cutajar caught a 7-meter, 3-ton Great White Shark near Filfla, believed to be one of the largest ever recorded.
The Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) is also present in Maltese waters, though its numbers have experienced severe declines, estimated at 90 percent in some areas. Shortfin Mako Sharks (Isurus oxyrinchus) are critically endangered in the Mediterranean and can occasionally be found closer to the coast. Researchers successfully tagged a young Shortfin Mako in 2023, providing insights into their movements.
Smaller, more common species include the Small-spotted Catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) and the Nursehound (Scyliorhinus stellaris). These bottom-dwelling sharks are harmless to humans. Deep-water species like the Portuguese Dogfish (Centroscymnus coelolepis) are also found, inhabiting considerable depths. Other documented species include Hammerheads, Angel sharks, and various dogfish species.
Understanding Encounters and Conservation
Encounters between sharks and humans in Maltese waters are extremely rare. Most shark species in the area are small, non-aggressive, or inhabit deep waters far from swimming areas. Only one fatal shark attack has been recorded in Malta in the last century, occurring in 1956. This low incidence rate indicates a minimal risk to water users.
Sharks are integral to marine ecosystems, helping to balance food webs. Malta has demonstrated a commitment to shark conservation, ranking fifth among Mediterranean countries for its protective measures. The country implemented 27 actions for shark protection and was the first in Europe to protect the Great White Shark in 1999. Organizations like Sharklab-Malta actively contribute to conservation by breeding and releasing species such as the Small-spotted Catshark, having reintroduced 371 sharks since 2011. Despite these efforts, human activities like overfishing, bycatch, illegal fishing, and mislabeling of shark meat continue to challenge the recovery of shark populations in the Mediterranean.