“We have seen things that we never expect.”

For years, South Island is a bucket destination for marine wildlife lovers in the hope that they would witness the amazing power of the great white shark that jumps from the ocean in seeking to achieve seals.

But at an anxious turn, their great eggs are Everything disappearedAs the National Geographic – and their absence sends shock waves across the entire marine ecosystem.

What is happening?

A new study from the Shark Research Foundation, which was built on more than 20 years of data and published in Borders in marine scienceShe revealed the extent of the ecological system on Sol Island has changed since the great white shark began to choose. The decline began around 2010, but by 2018, the iconic predators have completely disappeared from the area.

“We have seen things that we have never expected,” the scientist of the marine environment and executive director of the shark research Foundation Neil Hamer is a blowA co -author of the study said.

Follow this was a series of unexpected transformations, according to researchers. Without keeping the large eggs in the selection, Broadnose Sevengill-which was usually hidden in nearby sea forests-to the area, and sometimes appeared in large groups such as 15. Fur seals, which were cautious and dodging, began to equip in mysterious groups, and even a chase after formulating the cage.

These changes distinguish more than just a strange new behavior. They have indicated a dramatic re -formation of the food network – researchers have never expected to witness directly.

Why is this anxiety?

Great white sharks play an important role in maintaining the ocean balance. As Apex predators, they keep groups of other types under examination – the removal of patients and the weak, thus maintaining healthy food networks. When it disappears, follow the effects of the ripple.

With fewer sharks to keep them in the choice, seals and seven tools – but their prey groups, including anchova, Cape Horse Mackerel, and other smaller sharks. Domino’s influence explains what scientists call.Food consequences– When the upper predator loss causes dramatic changes at all levels of the nutritional chain.

Although the exact cause of the disappearance of sharks is not clear crystal, the finger indicates a person and Natural threats. The deadly whales may target them, but the shark window – which kills up to 30 wonderful white per year – will probably contribute to declining. Because this shark multiplies slowly and ripens late, even small losses can have great consequences.

What is done about it?

Experts like Hammerschlag say it is time to rethink how to protect both people and predators. One major change? Ending old network programs and adopting non -deadly safety measures, such as monitoring sharks and electronic deterrence.

On the individual level, the support of sharks and marine policy reforms is one of the ways to help. You can also see organizations such as the Shark Research Foundation and follow -up of science -backed efforts to reduce harmful fishing practices.

Hammerschlag said: “We cannot stop Orcas. But we can stop the net.” Doing this may only help restore balance to a brittle underwater world.

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