5 Shark Species You will Encounter Scuba Diving in the Caribbean Sea 1) Isaac Newton 53, Polanco V Secc, 11550, México City. Many travelers to the West Indies ask, “are there sharks in the Caribbean?” And if there are, “are they dangerous?” The answer to the first question is yes, there are sharks in the Caribbean. Furthermore, are there sharks in the Caribbean islands? Office in Mexico City: Av. Your email address will not be published. There are big sharks in the Maldives, with the biggest shark of them; the whale shark (included below is a link to a page with the best times to visit and dive The Maldives for seeing whale sharks). Lamia, a daughter of the sea god Poseidon, was known as a sea monster, while a son of hers, Akheilos, was a shark. Tiger sharks are one of the largest sharks in the Caribbean. Your key to the Caribbean. Like Caribbean reef sharks, their population is in decline due to overfishing and the destruction of mangroves around Caribbean islands. You can find them almost everywhere in the... Hammerhead Shark. Some of these species are known to attack human beings when they are provoked. Overfishing and low reproduction output have put global populations of the hammerhead shark in decline. Lemon sharks are common in the Caribbean. Find out about the world's biggest and fastest sharks, how sharks reproduce, and … Let’s start with one of the most popular dive destinations, the Bahamas. By comparison, 38 … There is a bull shark breeding area frequented by divers in Playa del Carmen in Mexico. Spotting or diving with tiger sharks can be an immensely memorable experience. In the Caribbean, they stay mainly near coral reefs. While not strictly in the Caribbean Sea, the Bahamas is the ultimate for shark diving in this region. It is found in the tropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean from Florida to Brazil, and is the most commonly encountered reef shark in the Caribbean Sea. Two recent shark attacks in Caribbean, one of them fatal for a UK tourist, have sparked some fear and concern among those who swim in the ocean. The Tiger Shark. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. 3, Mz. The lemon shark is yet another Caribbean type of shark. It is not known where they go. An American brother and sister who swam through the shark-infested waters of the Caribbean for 12 hours after their fishing boat sank in rough seas … Top 5 Shark Dives In The Caribbean Sea 1 – Mexico. Most sharks are also likely harmless (when unprovoked) species such as nurse sharks and reef sharks; as long as you don’t bother them (or swim around with bait), you’re all set. Luis Alejandro Velasco, the original castaway from Gabriel García Marquez’ book “The Story Of A Shipwrecked Sailor” spoke to us about the local sharks. The only time we have seen a Caribean Sea hammerhead shark was on a beach. Required fields are marked *. It belongs to the Carcharhinidae family. In the Caribbean Sea there are around 1,000 documented species of fish, including sharks (bull shark, tiger shark, silky shark and Caribbean reef shark), flying fish, giant oceanic manta ray, angel fish, spotfin butterflyfish, parrotfish, Atlantic Goliath grouper, tarpon and moray eels. There are all kinds of different sharks in the Cozumel waters and being able to see them in their natural habitat is a dream come true. This shark’s main characteristic is it’s overwhelming strength and top speed. These cookies do not store any personal information. The largest predatory fish on Earth tends to prefer a much cooler water and climate. Bonampak, Smz. Bahamas. Cozumel offers some of the clearest and warmest waters on the planet. Unlike vicious Great White Sharks, Whale Sharks are gentle filter-feeders. You will find that there are over 20 species of sharks in the Dutch Caribbean islands. They feed mainly on crustaceans. Plankton is its primary food. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. There are quite a few different types of sharks living in theCaribbean. It is also known by the name white death, white shark, … They are the largest fish in the sea and can grow to 18 metres in length. 3, Be Towers, D Tower, 77500 Cancún, Q. Roo Very few hammerhead shark attacks have been recorded, and most species are very small, with the exception of the great hammerhead. This is why it is such a popular diving destination, attracting global visitors all year round. In honor of Shark Week, we’re taking a (quick) break from binge-watching the Discovery Channel to check out the best places to swim with the ocean’s most notorious sea creatures. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Caribbean on the other, there are over 700 miles of coastline in total. You will be surprised to know that the whale shark is the largest species of sharks in the world. No, but we hope to go to a small island, … There arelots of nurse sharks in the Caribbean Sea. In the existing records of sharks in the Mediterranean, there is only one anecdotal tale of a fatal shark attack in the Greek islands, and that was reported nearly a century ago. Yes, there are sharks in Aruba. Even though there are hammerhead sharks in the Caribbean Sea we have never seent them underwater. They leave both of these sites in the fall. Great white sharks are probably the most visually intimidating shark out... Kosi Bay, Kwa-Zulu-Natal, South Africa. E mail: sales@sharkcancun.mx, Designed by Octopus Agencia de marketing, 7 fun facts you probably didn’t know about sharks. A fisherman pulled his net onto the beach and there was a dead hammerhead shark tangled in it. 2 – Grenada. It’s estimated that this shark can reach up to 124 km/h. …, Your email address will not be published. You will find that there are over 20 species of sharks in the Dutch Caribbean islands. Fortunately, Reports of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Blue Economic confirm that there have not been any ports of sharks in Barbadian waters. Throughout the Caribbean there is industrial catching of lobster and sardines (off the coast of … While there have been no documented fatal shark attacks here, West End on Grand Bahama is home to “Tiger Beach,” a notorious hangout for tiger sharks. Here, we’ll tell you with a bit more depth about the species surrounding the caribbean. However, the bite rate is low. In the Caribbean Sea there are around 1,000 documented species of fish, including sharks (bull shark, tiger shark, silky shark and Caribbean reef shark), flying fish, giant oceanic manta ray, angel fish, spotfin butterflyfish, parrotfish, Atlantic Goliath grouper, tarpon and moray eels. But I digress, there is a select few destination in the Caribbean that I would highly recommend checking out before going anywhere else. Shark diving in the Caribbean Sea Destination #1: The Bahamas Yes, there are sharks in Aruba. Caribbean Reef Shark. This strengthens the suggestion that humans are the reason for a decline in reef sharks in the Greater Caribbean. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. This Caribbean shark, known for its distinctive hammer-shaped head, are now an endangered species. Lemon sharks are another type of Caribbean shark. Although they frequent shallow waters, they are not known to be a threat to humans. There is speculation that the natural reefs off the North Coast, which make snorkeling and scuba diving so great, serve as a great barrier keeping large sea-life such as sharks at bay. Additional species known to be in the Caribbean include Tiger and Bull Sharks. 3, Be Towers, D Tower, 77500 Cancún, Q. Roo, Av. You can also find Bull sharks, Black Tip sharks and Black Nose sharks. The Mexican Caribbean Sea is one of the largest and most... Whale Shark. We get it--going on vacation to the Caribbean isn't cheap-- …, According to a recent USA Today poll, three of the best places in the Caribbean are located in Aruba. Although Caribbean reef sharks are found near reefs in southern Florida, surveys using long-line gear off the east coast of Florida reveal that Caribbean reef sharks are extremely rare north of the Florida Keys. This is how, on the long run, we’ve discovered many types of new and unknown sharks. None were fatal. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Sharks in the Caribbean: Caribbean Reef Shark. This is one of the most common and familiar sharks. The smallest shark - the dwarf lantern shark - is only 17 centimeters (6.7 inches) in length, while the whale shark is the largest specie in the world, with approximately 12 meters (39 feet). Why should you swim with whale sharks in Cancun? According to experts, the Dutch Caribbean islands are home to at least 33 shark and ray species. And that’s because the Caribbean has a shark problem. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Although, there are sharks in both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, that is for sure, shark attacks such as are reported in places such as Florida do not happen here. These sharks are known to become aggressive in the presence of food. Visit these historic cities in the Caribbean for a rewarding, educative experience you'll never forget! They are larger than Caribbean reef sharks, known to grow to up to 12 feet in length. Between June and September, the ultimate place to see majestic whale sharks is at Isla Mujeres, in Mexico. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. However, it is extremely rare north of the Florida Keys. It’s main characteristic is the curious hammer shaped head it has, which also grants him a 360º view of his surroundings. Sharks are disappearing from Caribbean reefs. The Caribbean Sea is also home to some very dangerous creatures. There is, however, a season when jellyfish is abundant in the waters of Panama and everybody knows that it usually starts around March and goes for 20 days or so. Tiger sharks are nocturnal hunters, waiting until the sun sets to hunt out sea turtles and other marine life. Shark species you can find in the Caribbean The Caribbean Reef Shark. You could say they control the population levels of their smaller neighbours, guaranteeing an ecological balance to the waters. It can grow up to 12 feet in length. This shark belongs to the Sphyrnidae family. No, not the sort of shark problem that conjures up visions of 1975 and Jaws. The 38-year-old tourist was paddling about 150 metres from the shore in … It is true, there are countless shark species currently living in these oceans and some are even yet to be discovered or officially recognised. The simple answer is yes. But, the Government of Barbados warns all sea bathers, watercraft operators, fishers, and all others using the sea are asked to practice … Tiger shark bites have been known to be fatal, although rare. The popular wisdom is that no one can drown in the Dead Sea because they'll float on the super-salty waters. These unpredictable sharks in the Caribbean Sea are known for their aggressiveness. This shark plays a fundamental role in the area’s ecosystem. Sharks are carnivorous and may be found in all seas. You can find them almost everywhere in the world, however it’s a caribbean sea species. There is speculation that the natural reefs off the North Coast, which make snorkeling and scuba diving so great, serve as a great barrier keeping large sea-life such as sharks at bay. However, the answer to the second question is a bit more complicated. Since they visit shallow waters, including reefs, harbors, and canals, they have a higher rate of interaction with humans. This shark belongs to the Sphyrnidae family. Since we love the blue waters of the Caribbean, we’re starting there. In practice, the 2199 shark attacks and 471 fatalities recorded in the world between 1580 and 2007 have not occurred randomly. The largest ever recorded was 18.8 metres long. 3, Mz. Have you been close to a hammerhead shark before? News Expert: Shark attacks in TT waters rare Darren Bahaw Monday 25 January 2021 A large number of beachgoers enjoy the sand, sea, sun and scenery at Maracas Bay. great white sharks live in the sea more in the deep area. Yes,there are many. Very common in the Bahamas, they are considered dangerous, because of their wide food spectrum. Silky Shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) Schools of juvenile silky sharks are frequently seen in the summer at the blue hole and at the offshore sea buoy. - SUREASH CHOLAI. Warning from the Government! We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. It has extrasensory organs that allow it to detect electromagnetic fields emanating from their prey. Shark Tower luxury condos in Cancun begin construction, Av. There are 90 species of mammals in the Caribbean including sperm whales, humpback … In 2016, there were only 81 shark attacks worldwide, four of which were fatal. There are definitely Sharks in Curacao, and everyone can see them.The Sea Aquarium has a few in a pool to look at. On the bright side, there are a number of major initiatives underway designed to preserve and protect the sea turtles, and many a Caribbean resort now includes sea turtle oriented activities and education among its guest offerings -- particularly in the summer and fall, which is sea turtle nesting season in the Caribbean. If you asked me before I watched the video below are there great white sharks in the Great Barrier Reef, I’d have so no there are not.But unless the video is a fake (which I don’t think it is) you’ll discover that great whites have been seen on the Great Barrier Reef. There are Red Reef sharks and lemon sharks that frequent the Caribbean sea. The magazine with local insides, stories and travel information about the Caribbean. You will find sharks species like reef sharks, whale sharks, and hammerhead sharks there. Nothing is more romantic than a …, Save big on your Caribbean vacation with these 7 secret tips! One of the biggest threats for the Caribbean Reef Shark is uncontrolled fishing. We are particularly talking about the sharks. Costa Rica’s tropical waters tend not to be the favorite habit for Great White sharks. In fact, it’s just the opposite. In fact, there are sharks around any coastal area that is surrounded by saltwater. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias)is one of the most dangerous sharks in the sea. Top 10 Shark Infested Beaches in the World Gansbaai, South Africa (a.k.a. Go ahead, suit up, and prepare for another look into diving in paradise. Nurse sharks rest on the sandy bottom of sea during the day. Shark attacks in Costa Rica are extremely rare, especially when unprovoked however a Tiger shark may attack if you are swimming or diving and it feels threatened. News collects all the stories you want to read. Lemon sharks are common in the Caribbean. Given the vast number of people spending time in the warm and often shallow waters along the shores of Greece, encounters with sharks are few. There are several species of shark common to the Caribbean. … When feeding, Whale Sharks glide in circles, as they simply suck up whatever small sea-life is front of them. Sharks do make an appearance in Greek mythology, and that may mean that they were more numerous in ancient times than they are now. Were do great white sharks live? Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) As the largest shark and fish species of the world, the whale shark is a highly migratory species. Unfortunately, during the past years, their population has diminished considerably as a consequence of human activity in the zone. The Caribbean reef shark ( Carcharhinus perezi) is a species of requiem shark, belonging to the family Carcharhinidae. If you were hoping to see sharks anyway, don’t be disappointed, there’s all sorts of spots where you can chill with these deep sea … Are there sharks in the Caribbean? We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Swimming with nurse sharks is a fairly common activity in the Caribbean, and bites are extremely rare. Also read: A Scuba Diver’s guide to Cozumel. Larger sharks stay away from coral reefs and are usually beyond the reefs in deeper waters, not near the shore. Yes, there are sharks in the Mediterranean Sea, though they are seldom seen, and even more seldom come anywhere close to people. Although the Caribbean reef shark isn’t normally a threat to humans, controversial “shark feedings” set up as tourist attractions have led to a few attacks. Caribbean Reef Sharks are the most commonly found species in Bahamian waters. Lemon shark. You should exercise caution when swimming with sharks in the Caribbean. They love warm water, and feed on turtles, other sharks, and even whales. Part […] Much smaller than their striped counterparts, these requiem sharks grow to around 2-2.5 metres ( 6.5-8 ft) long and are characterised by dusky-coloured fins with little-to-no markings on their overall dark-grey colouration, and white underbelly. However, fishermen, specialists and researchers have recognised exactly seven different shark species. (Credit: Albert Kok) Lemon sharks are another type of Caribbean shark. Are there great white sharks in Costa Rica? If you asked me before I watched the video below are there great white sharks in the Great Barrier Reef, I’d have so no there are not.But unless the video is a fake (which I don’t think it is) you’ll discover that great whites have been seen on the Great Barrier Reef. Out of the more than 350 shark species known today, scientists have managed to mark only 30, so there is a lot to do in this field and certainly a lot to find out about how many sharks are in the ocean.