In an unprecedented discovery, researchers from Oregon State University (OSU) have confirmed the presence of two distinct shark species in Puget Sound for the first time. The newly documented species—the broadnose sevengill shark (Notorynchus cepedianus) and the endangered soupfin shark (Galeorhinus galeus)—have raised questions about the shifting marine ecosystem in this crucial area of the Salish Sea. Both species were recorded in the southern portion of the waterway, indicating potential ecological changes that reflect broader environmental dynamics.
Puyet Sound, a picturesque basin bordered by Washington state and British Columbia, is touted for its biodiversity but has had limited historical data on its shark populations. With a history of only one documented sevengill shark prior to 2021 in this region, the new findings suggest that the habitat may be changing and adapting in response to environmental pressures, including climate change.
OSU researchers, led by assistant professor Taylor Chapple and graduate students Jessica Schulte and Ethan Personius, detailed their findings in a series of papers published in Frontiers in Marine Science. Their collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife signals a dedicated effort to understand the dynamics of these apex predators in urbanized waters.
Schulte elaborated on the significance of the broadnose sevengill shark's new habitat: “Understanding the sevengill presence in this new habitat is crucial for understanding the food webs of the Salish Sea, and it highlights the need for continued monitoring and research—including their relationship with other species of conservation concern, such as salmon.” This striking predator, which can grow to nearly 10 feet, feeds on a wide variety of prey including rays, crustaceans, and marine mammals.
Only recently had anecdotal reports of sevengill sharks been confirmed through field studies. During research conducted in both 2022 and 2023, scientists caught a notable number of sevengills—nine in total—over 190 miles away from their previously documented range, all in the heavily urbanized southern region of Puget Sound. The researchers noted that while the majority of the sharks caught were males, they also pulled a female measuring 4 feet 6 inches, highlighting the potential for breeding in the area.
Moving on to the soupfin shark, a species that has suffered severe population declines due to historical overfishing for its liver, which is rich in vitamin A, Personius remarked: “Despite lower fishing pressure, the species has not been able to recover and is currently under consideration for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act.” Adult soupfin sharks can reach lengths of up to 6.5 feet and are renowned for their ability to migrate significant distances—often exceeding 1,000 miles.
The soupfin shark's arrival can be interpreted through the lens of climate change. After the 2014-15 marine heatwave event known as “The Blob,” which caused drastic shifts in the distribution of marine species, anchovies became a dominant forage fish in the Salish Sea. Given that soupfin sharks prey on anchovies, their appearance might indicate a change in food availability due to climate-related shifts in marine ecosystems.
Sharks in Puget Sound are not merely a scientific curiosity; they engage in intricate ecological interactions. Washington boasts a diversity of 12 shark species along its coastline. Although this fact may induce panic for some beachgoers, it is important to note that instances of shark attacks in these waters are incredibly rare. Only two unprovoked shark attacks on humans have been recorded since 1837—both of which were non-fatal.
Experts insist that the risk of shark attacks can be further diminished through awareness and caution. Many shark encounters with humans stem from mistaken identity, often when swimmers resemble seals, a preferred food source. To mitigate risks, scientists recommend several preventive measures when swimming in waters where sharks may be present.
Swimsuit color plays an often-overlooked role. Sharks have a preference for contrast due to their colorblind vision; bright colors against darker water or intricate patterns may make individuals more noticeable. Additionally, tattoos that create a stark contrast against one's skin might inadvertently attract curious sharks. Potential shark encounters also increase during twilight hours when many sharks tend to feed, so a prudent measure is to avoid swimming at dusk and dawn.
Those wanting to swim safely can keep an eye out for schools of fish or diving birds—both signs that indicate the presence of a predator or feeding behavior below. If these signs are apparent, it’s smart to vacate the waters.
Purdy Harbor biologist Lisa Hillier described how shark populations navigate the introduction of human activity in the region. The bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus), a deep-water predator raised in discussions about marine safety, often approaches shallower areas to pup during certain seasons. While sixgills can grow up to 14 feet, reports indicate that those found in Washington are generally sub-adults, smaller than their adult counterparts, possibly indicating a nursery area.
This past year, five dead sixgill sharks were documented by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, with some casualty reports attributed to fishing mishaps—including ingestion of fishing gear. Hillier explained the challenges of catching sharks with a common gaff hook, which is meant for lifting fish but can be deadly to sharks if used improperly during release processes. The slow recovery of sixgill populations marks a worrying trend, compounded by the fact that fewer funds are directed toward shark research due to their lack of commercial value.
However, efforts are being undertaken to promote public awareness and facilitate better shark management practices. Nonprofit organizations such as Harbor WildWatch are actively working to educate communities through programs like the “Sharks of the Salish Sea” exhibit, which features specimens loaned from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Educational initiatives like these aim to dispel misconceptions surrounding sharks, shedding light on their ecological importance and the role they play in maintaining marine balance.
The plight of sharks in Washington waters reflects broader environmental changes that bear witness to human impact and climate variability. As these apex predators reestablish their presence in the Salish Sea, the implications for biodiversity are profound. Their fate serves as a bellwether for the health of marine ecosystems—a reminder of the fragile interplay between species and the environments they inhabit.
Washington state remains a vital habitat for numerous shark species, yet their recovery and well-being rely significantly on proactive research and public engagement aimed at safeguarding and appreciating these marine marvels. Understanding the ecological roles sharks fulfill can foster a more harmonious coexistence between humans and the ocean's most captivating inhabitants. Through continuous monitoring and outreach, the hope remains that both sharks and the vitality of their ecosystems will endure.
