Understanding Nurse Sharks: Are They Gentle Giants or Hidden Threats?
While nurse sharks are generally seen as "gentle giants" of the sea, they have recently made the headlines for an unusual encounter with divers. Although these bottom dwellers are usually docile, the recent nurse shark bite of a Brazilian SCUBA diver in the Maldives illustrates the importance of knowing how they behave. So, let's dive into the details to understand the simple explanation behind unexpected nurse shark attacks.
The Simple Explanation Behind Unexpected Nurse Shark Attacks
Nurse sharks live in the slow-moving, nocturnal, warm, shallow waters of the Atlantic and Indian/Pacific oceans. They generally lie on the sea bottom during the day and hunt prey by night. They are known for their obedience and attract numerous SCUBA diving charters and underwater enthusiasts guided by PADI instructors. Nurse sharks are wild animals, however. Unlike the most peaceful species, they will engage in defensive or aggressive behavior if provoked, startled, or mishandled. Nurse sharks have tremendously strong jaws with thousands of serrated teeth that help them crush crustaceans and mollusks. When they bite, their natural anatomy can be very severe.
Misunderstanding of Human Actions
A misunderstanding between humans and sharks is one of the leading causes of nurse shark bites. People mistake their calm attitude for permission to approach them, and divers and snorkelers often get too close. They can be provoked to defensive responses by reaching out or trying to feed them. For example, in the Maldives viral incident, the diver may have accidentally intruded upon the shark's personal space without knowing it. Remember that even docile marine species can feel threatened when too close.
Mistaken Identity and Feeding Behavior
Although some tourist diving charters hand-feed nurse sharks, it increases the risk of bites. Sh sharks depend on their superior senses to find food; murky waters can fool them into thinking a hand or arm will be food.
Environmental Stressors
Nurse sharks might react more to increased human activity, pollution, and habitat disturbances. Divers who accidentally corner or block their escape routes can be bitten defensively.
Nurse Shark Incidents: Prevention
Although the likelihood of running into an aggressive nurse shark is low, the best practices during dives can significantly reduce the chance of an accident. Remember to:
- Keep your Distance Respectfully
PADI instructors stress observing marine life without disturbing it. Nurse sharks may appear approachable, but avoid touching or crowding them.
- Avoid Hand-Feeding
Disturbing nurse sharks when feeding disrupts their natural hunting instincts and increases the chance of mistaken bites. Reputable SCUBA charters discourage feeding and focus on safe interactions instead.
- Recognize Warning Signs
As animals, nurse sharks may show warning behaviors like arching their back, quick head movements, or rapid body repositioning. If you see such signs, divers should immediately retreat.
- Follow Professional Guidance
PADI instructors supervise diving to ensure safety protocols. They know how to interact responsibly with marine life because these experts understand its behavior.
Respecting Nature
Nurse sharks are great wonders of the underwater world. Although incidents such as the Maldives bite are uncommon—they serve as a reminder of the importance of taking care of them and not interfering with their homes. Of course, when encountered underwater, we can understand their behavior and follow some responsible diving practices to ensure we encounter these extraordinary creatures safely.
Diver Safety and SCUBA Instruction
Our mission at By the Shore SCUBA Instruction is to share the thrill of this life experience with our clients through unforgettable diving experiences that are safe and respectful to the sometimes delicate but never-to-be-forgotten marine ecosystems depending on our world. Certified PADI instructor Kevin Alexander holds years of experience. He trains divers to interact responsibly with underwater life, practice ethical diving, and chart dives to beautiful locations from time to time. We build a community of environmentally aware divers by constantly educating and guiding exploration. If you are considering vacationing in North Carolina or passing through, give By the Shore SCUBA Instruction a call for your next diving class!
Sources-
-https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/nurse-shark
