Rare ‘Sharktopus’ – an octopus riding a shark – sighting caught on camera shared by New Zealand scientists

Fox News - Mar 22nd, 2025

Researchers from the University of Auckland captured a rare and unique sighting in the Hauraki Gulf near Kawau Island, New Zealand, where a Maori octopus was seen riding on the head of the world's fastest shark, a mako. The encounter was documented using a drone and a GoPro by the university's marine scientists, who were initially investigating shark feeding frenzies. This unusual event, described as a 'sharktopus,' was noted by Professor Rochelle Constantine as one of the strangest things the researchers had ever seen, given that octopuses typically dwell on the seabed while mako sharks prefer shallower waters.

The sighting holds significance for marine biology, highlighting unexpected interactions between species and the dynamic nature of marine ecosystems. The event was not only a rare visual spectacle but also an intriguing subject for scientific inquiry regarding interspecies behavior in the ocean. Although the researchers did not observe the conclusion of the encounter, the peaceful co-existence observed suggests a non-threatening interaction. This extraordinary event adds to the growing body of knowledge about marine life behaviors and could inspire further investigation into similar phenomena.

New Zealand Marine Biology University Of Auckland Maori Octopus Mako Shark Rochelle Constantine Hauraki Gulf

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The news story effectively captures a rare and intriguing marine interaction, providing a clear and engaging account of the event. It scores well in accuracy, clarity, and readability, supported by credible sources from the University of Auckland. However, the article could benefit from additional perspectives and context to enhance its balance and transparency. While it is timely and of public interest, the story's impact is primarily educational rather than transformative. Overall, the article is a well-crafted piece that successfully informs and entertains its audience, with room for deeper exploration of the event's ecological significance and broader implications.

Accuracy

The news story is largely accurate in its portrayal of the event, detailing the sighting of a Maori octopus riding a mako shark, as captured by researchers from the University of Auckland. The location, Hauraki Gulf near Kawau Island, and the involvement of the University of Auckland are correctly stated. The article correctly identifies the mako shark as the fastest shark species, capable of reaching speeds up to 46 mph, which aligns with known scientific data. However, the story could benefit from additional verification regarding the specific motivations or reasons behind the octopus's behavior, as well as the typical habitats of both species. Overall, the factual claims are consistent with available data, but some areas, such as the exact behavior of the animals during the encounter, remain speculative without direct evidence.

Balance

The story is balanced in its presentation, focusing on the unusual interaction between the octopus and the shark without showing bias towards either species. It provides a neutral tone, emphasizing the rarity and curiosity of the event. However, the article could include additional perspectives, such as expert opinions on the ecological significance of such interactions or potential conservation implications. The lack of these viewpoints slightly limits the depth of the narrative but does not skew the overall balance significantly.

Clarity

The article is clear and concise, using straightforward language to describe the unusual encounter between the octopus and the shark. The structure is logical, starting with the sighting and providing context through quotes from Professor Constantine. The tone is neutral and engaging, making the story easily understandable for a general audience. The repetition of some details, such as the speed of the mako shark, reinforces key points without causing confusion.

Source quality

The primary source of information for the story is the University of Auckland, a reputable academic institution. The involvement of Professor Rochelle Constantine adds credibility due to her expertise in marine biology. The article cites direct observations and statements from the researchers, which enhances its reliability. However, the story could benefit from corroborating sources or additional expert commentary to strengthen the authority and comprehensiveness of the reporting.

Transparency

The article provides some transparency by mentioning the researchers' initial focus on shark feeding frenzies and their surprise at the sighting. However, it lacks detailed context on how the sighting fits into broader research goals or methodologies. The absence of information on potential conflicts of interest or funding sources is a gap in transparency. More comprehensive disclosure of the research context and any associated limitations would enhance the reader's understanding of the claim's basis.