The North Atlantic Ocean is home to a diverse array of shark species. These predators are an integral part of this ecosystem, contributing to its health.
Presence and General Distribution
Sharks inhabit a wide range of environments within the North Atlantic, from shallow coastal waters to frigid ocean depths. Their distribution is influenced by water temperature, prey availability, and depth. Some species prefer warmer, temperate zones, while others thrive in colder, northern latitudes.
Many shark species undertake extensive migrations across the North Atlantic, moving between different regions based on seasonal changes and food sources. They can be found near continental shelves and slopes, as well as in pelagic (open ocean) waters. Juvenile sharks often utilize shallower, inshore areas as nurseries, which offer abundant food and fewer large predators.
Notable Species
The Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) is an apex predator found in coastal and offshore waters, from temperate to tropical regions. These sharks can reach over 6 meters (20 feet) in length. They congregate in areas with abundant prey, such as seal populations.
The Shortfin Mako Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus), one of the fastest sharks, can reach speeds over 70 kilometers per hour (43 mph). These migratory sharks are found in temperate and tropical waters, often associated with the Gulf Stream in the Western North Atlantic. Shortfin makos can grow up to 4 meters (13 feet) long and weigh over 690 kg (1521 lbs).
The Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) is a slender, metallic blue species found in all temperate and tropical oceans. In the North Atlantic, they undertake extensive migrations, following a circular pattern from Africa to North America and then to Europe. Blue sharks can grow up to 3.8 meters (12.5 feet) long and feed on small fish and squid.
The Greenland Shark (Somniosus microcephalus) lives between 250 and 500 years, making it the longest-living vertebrate. These large sharks, reaching up to 6.4 meters (21 feet) in length, inhabit the cold, deep waters of the Arctic and North Atlantic Oceans, usually at depths greater than 200 meters. Despite slow movement, they are opportunistic predators and scavengers.
Ecological Significance
Sharks maintain the balance of North Atlantic marine ecosystems. As apex predators, they regulate prey populations, including fish, squid, and marine mammals. This regulation contributes to healthy fish stocks. By preying on sick or weaker individuals, sharks also contribute to the genetic fitness of prey populations. Their presence supports biodiversity and the intricate structure of the ocean’s food web.
Human Interaction
Interactions between sharks and humans in the North Atlantic are rare. Most shark species pose little to no threat. For safe ocean recreation, avoid swimming at dawn or dusk when some shark species are more active.
Minimizing splashing and avoiding areas with known baitfish activity can help reduce the likelihood of an encounter. It is also recommended to avoid wearing shiny jewelry, which can resemble fish scales. Should a shark be sighted, calmly and slowly moving away while maintaining awareness of its presence is the recommended action.