After experiencing an increase in oceanic white tip observations paired with an increase in pelagic observers over the last few years, we began a photo identification database in 2018 of the individual oceanic white tip sharks encountered offshore Mo’orea (with submissions welcome from other affiliates and locations in French Polynesia as well) in attempt to better understand the population baseline and migratory patterns for the species. This project has recently evolved with the partnership of the DIREN into a habitat mapping initiative through the use of satellite tags and live-tracking technology. A team of Moorea native captains and fishermen have been trained as the tagging support team conducting offshore surveys and responding to fishermen sightings to deploy tags on this critically endangered species. The results of this project alongside the photo-identification/behavior database can help further the understanding of how the sharks utilize French Polynesian waters and how human activity plays a role in their behavior and movement. This understanding can aid in better educating and training pelagic ocean users in preventative shark safety as well as more conservation minded practices.

tuamotus tiger shark study

In November 2018 we led an expedition to a remote area in search of tiger shark hot spots in response to fishermen reports of high abundance of tiger sharks in the area. We were able to document the region in which juvenile and sub-adult tiger sharks congregate in high concentrations with longer than average residency rates. We return to this study site annually and use fishermen inclusion as citizen scientists to conduct surveys of different forms; behavioral, population, environmental, and individual. For this project we implement citizen science initiatives with local fishermen to document the population using photo identification techniques through providing them with pole mounted gopros that can be submerged during encounters while fishing. We are also conducting research to better understand the link between this hotspot and the adult female tiger shark hotspot located in Pape’ete of Tahiti island. This project is expanding in 2024 to include phsyiological sampling as well as acoustic arrays.

Ecotourism preventative safety and shark behavior

In an area where ecotourism is thriving and sharks are often encountered during these operations, it is vital that operators working with these predators fully understand the importance of preventative safety, behavioral understanding, and have the necessary trauma training as well as equipment onboard at all times. A species that is so heavily misunderstood and under-respected must be taken seriously when immersing into their world and human-shark interactions must be done with a complete understanding of the importance of positive interactions and the consequence of ignorance. We provide training in all areas necessary to conduct safe and respectful shark ecotourism.

GET INVOLVED

Want to help sharks? Click the different links below for more information on how to actively make a difference in your daily life for sharks, how to join Team Mao Mana in our efforts, or how to experience sharks for yourself in an educational and immersive way.

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