The waters surrounding Greece, part of the larger Mediterranean Sea, are home to a variety of shark species. Many associate sharks with distant oceans, but these marine animals are present in the region. Their presence is a natural component of the marine ecosystem, and most species pose no threat to humans. Sharks play a role in maintaining the balance of marine life.
Commonly Encountered Species
The small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) is a frequently encountered shark species in Greek waters. These smaller sharks typically measure between 50 and 70 centimeters, though they can reach 1 meter. They favor sandy, gravelly, or muddy seafloors at depths ranging from 10 to 400 meters. They are nocturnal hunters, feeding on invertebrates and small fish, and are harmless to humans.
Another common species is the blue shark (Prionace glauca). These sharks have slender bodies and long pectoral fins, growing to about 3 meters. While primarily pelagic, meaning they inhabit open, deeper waters, blue sharks occasionally venture closer to coastal areas. Juvenile blue sharks are sometimes observed near beaches, posing little danger.
The basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) is also found in Greek waters, known for its immense size, sometimes exceeding 10 meters. These filter feeders consume plankton and small fish. They are harmless to humans and rarely seen near shore.
Deep-Sea and Less Common Inhabitants
Greek waters also host species less frequently observed, often inhabiting deeper regions or being highly migratory. The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) is present in Greek waters, but sightings are rare. Historical records indicate their presence; they feed on larger prey like tuna, rays, and dolphins.
The shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) is another pelagic species found in the region. Known for its remarkable speed, this shark resides in deeper waters but may approach coastal areas in pursuit of prey like tuna and swordfish. Thresher sharks (various Alopias species), identifiable by their long, whip-like tails used to stun prey, also inhabit deeper waters. Thresher sharks can grow to about 4.3 meters.
Deepwater species like the bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus) are found in Greek waters. These large sharks are among the oldest shark lineages and have six gill slits, unlike most sharks which have five. Hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna species) are rarely seen; while not aggressive towards humans, they may react if threatened.
Understanding Shark Behavior and Conservation
Encounters between sharks and humans are uncommon. Most shark species avoid human interaction. Shark bites are rare, often attributed to mistaken identity rather than intentional aggression.
Sharks play a role in maintaining the health and stability of marine ecosystems by regulating prey populations. However, many shark species in the Mediterranean Sea, including those in Greek waters, face significant challenges. Over 50% of Mediterranean shark species are threatened with extinction.
The primary threats to these populations include overfishing, both targeted and incidental bycatch, habitat degradation, and marine pollution. Conservation efforts are underway, including protective legislation and bans on certain fishing practices, but effective monitoring and enforcement are ongoing challenges.