A rare Greenland shark washed up in Ireland, surprising zoologist Emma Murphy. These elusive creatures typically inhabit the Arctic and North Atlantic oceans, making the find along the Irish coast exceptional. The National Museum of Ireland stated that this occurrence marks the first record of a stranded Greenland shark in Ireland.
Initially mistaken for a basking shark by onlookers near Sligo on April 11, the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group was alerted. Upon identification through photographs, the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin was informed. The Greenland shark, known as one of the largest carnivorous shark species globally, can reach lengths of up to seven meters and boasts a lifespan of over 270 years, with some individuals estimated to live up to 400 years.
While these sharks primarily inhabit cold Arctic and North Atlantic waters, shark scientist Dean Grubbs mentioned that Ireland falls within their known range due to their mobility and ability to thrive in cold temperatures. Despite being predominantly found at depths of around 2,000 meters, Greenland sharks have been sighted in various locations, including Belize and the Gulf of Mexico.
Given their deep-sea habitat, Greenland sharks are seldom encountered by humans. The recent discovery in Ireland presented a unique opportunity for researchers to study a three-meter-long male shark believed to be approximately 150 years old and nearing sexual maturity. Despite the absence of trauma or signs of poor health, the cause of its death remains unknown.
The scientists aim to preserve the shark’s skin and skull for public display at the National Museum of Ireland, ensuring that this remarkable creature will be appreciated for generations to come.
