Climate change isn’t just affecting polar bears and coral reefs, it’s also having profound impacts on sharks. As ocean temperatures rise, the world’s top predators are changing where they live, how they behave, and even how often they encounter humans.
Warming Oceans, Shifting Sharks
Research shows that many shark species are moving toward cooler waters as their traditional habitats become too warm. In Australia, tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) have been recorded moving further south than usual, likely chasing prey species that are also on the move due to shifting temperatures.
This southward shift means some sharks are now turning up in places where they were rarely seen before, potentially increasing shark encounters with humans. For example, studies have shown that warming seas may correlate with changes in bite patterns along parts of the Australian coast.
More Bites? Not Necessarily
While media attention often links climate change to a spike in shark bites, scientists caution against oversimplifying the story. More sharks in new areas doesn’t automatically mean more bites. Other factors, like water visibility, prey abundance, and human activity, still play a major role.
However, new research does suggest that warmer waters could increase shark metabolism and, in some cases, aggression levels. In short, sharks might feed more frequently in warmer water, although this remains an area requiring further study.
What This Means for Ocean Users
For surfers, divers, and swimmers, this changing shark behavior highlights the need for adaptive safety measures and greater shark awareness. Education, situational awareness, and the use of new technologies like shark bite-resistant wetsuits can help reduce risk without harming sharks. It is unrealistic to expect that as humans, we can simply walk into a wild environment like the ocean, and for it to be sanitized for us. We must understand the wilderness we are entering, increase our knowledge and awareness, and take appropriate steps to mitigate risk.
Conclusion
Climate change is reshaping ocean ecosystems, and sharks are on the front line. As they adapt, so must we. By understanding these changes, ocean users can stay safer, and policymakers can make informed decisions that support both human safety and shark conservation.