Unveiling the Unseen: Shark Week Team Discovers Rare ‘Black Makos’ Off California Coast!

In 2019, shark expert Keith Poe was off the California coast when he caught a strikingly dark shark. This intriguing catch, labeled a “black mako,” sparked curiosity. Black makos appear larger and darker than the usual shortfin mako sharks, which are typically blue or gray on top with white bellies.

This mysterious find inspired the recent “Shark Week” episode titled “Black Mako of the Abyss.” Poe teams up with environmental scientist Kendyl Berna, marine biologist Tristan Guttridge, and shark attack survivor Paul de Gelder. Together, they embark on a 40-mile journey into the ocean to uncover more about these black makos, hoping to collect tissue samples for genetic analysis.

To attract sharks, the crew uses a helicopter with tons of chum as bait. They even deploy a white shark decoy, successfully drawing in a dark mako shark. This particular shark seems to have a blend of features from both shortfin and longfin makos, prompting questions about its classification. It could be a longfin mako or a hybrid of both species.

Longfin makos are less understood than shortfins as they typically dwell in deeper waters, making sightings around California rare. These sharks have sleek bodies, longer pectoral fins, and darker colors. Researchers are eager to identify what’s happening with the black makos, especially since hybridization among sharks isn’t new. Genetic mixing has been documented, such as in cases with hammerhead and black-tip shark hybrids.

However, experts caution that hybridization between shortfin and longfin makos is unlikely. Jess A.T. Morgan, a scientist from Queensland, notes that different shark species generally don’t hybridize, as viable offspring would likely have trouble reproducing.

The ongoing study has been challenging; the team has struggled to catch the quick black makos for samples. Yet, they are persistent. They hope that changes in ocean conditions could explain their presence. Factors like climate change can shift animal ranges, and longer migration routes may lead to more sightings of longfin makos closer to shore.

Berna suggests that these black makos might simply be longfins adapting to a new environment. As our oceans warm, their habitats could shift northward. “Environmental changes are always shifting where animals live,” she says, pointing to climate’s impact on animal distribution.

Douglas Adams from the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission agrees that genetic tests would give definitive answers. “Many questions remain regarding longfin mako habitats,” he explains. As the team continues their research, they’re hopeful for a genetic sample that could clarify this enigma.

The fascinating world of sharks continues to surprise us, blending science and mystery in the deep blue sea.



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