The Pacific Ocean is teeming with an array of shark species – 34, to be exact! Not only that but these waters house around 25,000 islands and stunning coral reefs and volcanoes.
Sharks are known for favouring the coastlines nearby these areas as it provides them with a wealth of hunting opportunities. So, if you’re looking into embarking on some ocean adventures, just remember; beautiful scenery may also mean sharks in abundance!
We are not finished yet. In this article, we will explore the various species of sharks in the Pacific Ocean, their habitats, and the depths they are known to inhabit.
Most Common Sharks Species Living in The Pacific Ocean
Broadnose Sevengill Shark
This shark is known to inhabit the coastal shelves of the Pacific Ocean, primarily in temperate waters. It prefers depths between 0-370 feet (0-110 meters).
Great White Shark
These large predatory species are found throughout all temperate and subtropical oceans around the world but are most commonly seen in the Pacific. They are generally between 0 and 400 feet (0 to 120 meters).
Thresher Shark
Thresher sharks are typically seen in the coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean and are known to inhabit depths of up to 1,100 feet (330 meters). They are most commonly found near shorelines and are often encountered by humans.
Spiny Dogfish
This species is also known as the “spur dogfish” and are found throughout temperate waters in the Pacific Ocean. They are generally located between 0-650 feet (0-200 meters) and are often seen in large shoals close to the shoreline.
Sixgill Shark
The sixgill shark is a deep-water species and is most commonly seen in the Pacific Ocean between 350-2,000 feet (100-600 meters). They are solitary creatures that humans rarely encounter.
Shortfin Mako Shark
These highly migratory sharks are found in temperate and tropical waters around the world but are most commonly encountered in the Pacific. They are generally located between 0-400 feet (0-120 meters).
Blue Shark
These are one of the more common open ocean species seen in tropical and temperate waters across the globe. In the Pacific, they are typically located between 0-150 feet (0-50 meters).
Tiger Shark
Large, aggressive predators are found in temperate and tropical waters across the globe. In the Pacific Ocean, they are generally located between 0-400 feet (0-120 meters).
Pacific Sleeper Shark
These are large, deep-water species found in the Pacific Ocean between 200-3,500 feet (60-1,000 meters). Humans rarely encounter them due to their preference for living in extreme depths.
Whale Shark
Whale sharks are the largest fish species in the world and are found throughout temperate and tropical oceans across the globe. In the Pacific, they are generally located between 0-150 feet (0-50 meters).
Megamouth shark
The megamouth shark is a rare species found in temperate and tropical oceans around the world. In the Pacific, they are located between 0-400 feet (0-120 meters).
Mexican Hornshark
These species are found in the eastern Pacific off the coasts of Mexico and South America. They are generally located between 0-150 feet (0-50 meters).
Nurse Shark
These large, solitary creatures are found in the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean. They are generally located between 0-150 feet (0-50 meters).
Hammerhead Shark
Hammerhead sharks are a fascinating species that are known to inhabit temperate and tropical waters across the globe. In the Pacific, they are generally located between 0-200 feet (0-60 meters).
Silky Shark
These are found in temperate and tropical waters around the world but are most commonly encountered in the Pacific Ocean. They are usually located between 0-150 feet (0-50 meters).
Basking Shark
These are the second largest fish in the sea and are found throughout temperate and tropical waters across the world. In the Pacific, they are usually located between 0-200 feet (0-60 meters).
Small-Spotted Catshark
These are small, bottom-dwelling species found in the temperate waters of the Pacific Ocean. They are generally located between 0-200 feet (0-60 meters).
These are 17 common shark species in the Pacific Ocean. These 17 are commonly seen and are known to inhabit depths of up to 1,100 feet (330 meters). They are most commonly found near shorelines and are often encountered by humans.
There are some other rare species also found in the Pacific Ocean. They are- Gulper Sharks, Longnose Sawshark, Prickly Shark, Sand Tiger Shark, Sicklefin Lemon Shark and White-Spotted Bamboo Shark.
All sharks are located between 0-2,000 feet (0-600 meters) of depth in the Pacific Ocean. With a little bit of luck, you may even get to spot one while exploring the waters of the Pacific!
Shark Attacks on The Pacific Coast
Shark attacks on the Pacific coast are relatively rare, but they do occur. According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), which tracks shark attacks worldwide, the Pacific coast of the United States has had fewer shark attacks than other regions, such as Florida.
In the past decade, California has had the most shark attacks on the Pacific coast, with an average of around 6-7 incidents per year. This is followed by Hawaii, which averages around 3-4 incidents per year. In comparison, Florida averages around 30 incidents per year.
The most common shark species involved in attacks on the Pacific coast are great white sharks, bull sharks, and tiger sharks. Great white sharks are responsible for the majority of fatal shark attacks on the Pacific coast.
Is It Safe from Sharks to Dive In The Pacific Ocean?
Yes, it is generally safe to dive in the Pacific Ocean. Sharks are not typically aggressive towards humans and are more likely to be scared away than attack a diver. However, always exercise caution when diving in open waters as there are still some risks associated with marine life encounters.
As long as you are aware of your surroundings and follow safety protocols, you are unlikely to experience any unpleasant encounters with sharks.
Also, remember that shark attacks are incredibly rare. With the correct safety measures and knowledge of your environment, you are sure to have a safe and enjoyable dive in the Pacific Ocean.
Which Precautions Must You Take Before Diving in The Pacific Ocean?
When planning a dive in the Pacific Ocean, take some precautions.
First and foremost, make sure you are familiar with the area and local laws regarding diving. Get informed about any potential hazards or risks associated with the particular dive site and check for recent shark sightings.
Be aware of your environment and look out for signs of dangerous marine life, such as large schools of baitfish. It is also a good idea to dive with a buddy and follow safe diving practices, such as maintaining a neutral buoyancy and avoiding stirring up sediment on the ocean floor.
Finally, it is best to avoid swimming during dusk or dawn, as this is when most sharks are active.
By following these simple precautions, you are sure to have a safe and enjoyable dive in the Pacific Ocean!
Conclusion
So, yes, there are sharks in the Pacific Ocean. There are around 34 species of sharks which are found in this region.
Shark attacks are relatively rare, but they do occur. Also, diving is safe as long as you are aware of your surroundings and follow safety protocols.
Before diving, become acquainted with the location and local laws related to diving. Additionally, take care in monitoring your surroundings for signs of hazardous aquatic life while abstaining from swimming at dusk or dawn. Taking these precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable dive!
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