A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science, has uncovered evidence of far-reaching ecosystem consequences following the disappearance of Great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) from False Bay, South Africa.
A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science, has uncovered evidence of far-reaching ecosystem consequences following the disappearance of Great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) from False Bay, South Africa. The research, conducted by scientists at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science, spans over two decades and documents cascading ecological disruptions, underscoring the crucial role apex predators play in maintaining ocean health.
Using a combination of long-term boat-based surveys of shark sightings, citizen science observations on Cape fur seals, and Baited Remote Underwater Video Surveys (BRUVS) of fishes and small sharks, the study provides evidence that the absence of Great white sharks has triggered significant shifts in the marine food web.
“The loss of this iconic apex predator has led to an increase in sightings of Cape fur seals and sevengill sharks, which in turn has coincided with a decline in the species that they rely on for food,” said Neil Hammerschlag, Ph.D., the study’s lead author. Hammerschlag conducted the research while at the Shark Research and Conservation Program at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School. “These changes align with long established ecological theories that predict the removal of a top predator, leads to cascading effects on the marine food web.”
Read More: University of Miami Rosenstiel
Great white shark breaches the surface in pursuit of prey in False Bay, South Africa. (Photo Credit: Chris Fallows)
