7-foot shark was eaten by even bigger shark, researchers suspect
FOX NewsAUG 2024
This research shows how little we know about the marine environment, especially rare species, and how much remains to be explored despite technological advancements. Since these ghost shark species are largely confined to the ocean floor, this discovery can shed light on their biology, reveal their cryptic nature, and bring us closer to exploring the deep sea — an uncharted territory teeming with undiscovered species and ecological marvels.
The Harriotta avia was caught incidentally in commercial fisheries, meaning the rarely spotted creature is capable of emerging from the dark depths of the ocean. Moreover, scientists have yet to determine its lifespan, population size, and role in the ecosystem. Additionally, the species' elusive nature makes it a subject of fascination, making it susceptible to extinction. Deep-sea exploration shouldn't just uncover the hidden wonders but also help experts figure out the best ways to protect them.