Marine Research Institute Launches “Shark Hotline” to Track and Study Sharks in Norwegian Waters

Institute of Marine Research Launches “Shark Hotline” for Public Sightings

On Thursday, June 15, the Institute of Marine Research (HI) introduced its own “shark hotline,” allowing the public to report shark sightings at sea. The initiative aims to gather valuable information about shark behavior and migration patterns.

Since its launch, the “shark phone” has been a tremendous success, exceeding all expectations. Keno Ferter, a researcher at HI, expressed his amazement at the overwhelming response, with multiple calls coming in simultaneously. “It is absolutely incredible,” Ferter told Dagbladet.

Previously, observations of sharks and other marine creatures were reported through the research portal Dugnad for the Sea. However, the new phone line allows for real-time reporting, enabling the research group to locate and satellite tag the animals more efficiently.

The hotline number is 55 23 85 60.

The research group has had a busy week since the launch of the “shark phone.” Last year, they only recorded three sightings in two weeks. However, in the past week alone, they have already marked six sharks, with a goal of marking four more.

Kenneth Didriksen from Nordnesøy was the first to report a sighting. Many people gathered on the quay to witness the marking process, including Didriksen and his family. “The shark circled the floating quay for several hours,” he told Dagbladet.

For Didriksen, who has lived in the area for 44 years, it was an exciting experience. “It was great for both young and old,” he said.

Thanks to the shark hotline, the research group has observed 20 sharks in the past week, providing them with valuable data. Ferter expressed his excitement, saying, “It is an absolutely fantastic experience. My pulse increases every time I see them.”

However, not all sightings can be marked. Often, only the fin is visible before the shark dives down. Additionally, the sharks have tough skin, making it challenging to tag them accurately. The researchers only attempt tagging when they are certain of a successful hit.

According to HI, brugde sharks can reach lengths of over 13 meters and weigh up to 19 tonnes. They thrive in temperate areas of both the northern and southern hemispheres and are frequently observed near the water’s surface close to land.

Despite their size, encountering a brugde shark along the fjord does not pose a threat. Unlike other sharks, they do not have fearsome dentition. Instead, they feed on plankton, which they filter from the water.

The “Shark Hotline” is part of the “Sharks on the Move” project, funded by the Research Council of Norway. The project aims to map the migration patterns of large sharks. Brugde sharks are currently threatened and have been overfished for a long time. Understanding their behavior and movements is crucial for their conservation.

Shark sightings can be reported from the entire Norwegian coast, but the project is primarily stationed in Lofoten, where the most activity is expected.

In what ways does the shark hotline serve as a means of public engagement and education

Providing valuable data on their movements and behavior. This increase in sightings is attributed to the public’s involvement through the shark hotline.

The Institute of Marine Research hopes that the information gathered from the hotline will contribute to a deeper understanding of shark populations in Norwegian waters. By analyzing factors such as location, species, and time of sighting, researchers can gain insights into the migration patterns, feeding habits, and overall ecology of these magnificent creatures.

In addition to being a valuable research tool, the shark hotline also serves as a means of public engagement and education. It allows citizens to actively participate in scientific efforts and learn more about marine life in their area. This citizen science approach has proven to be a successful way of gathering data and raising awareness about important conservation issues.

The “shark phone” initiative is just one of many ongoing projects by the Institute of Marine Research to study and protect Norway’s diverse marine ecosystems. Their work not only contributes to our knowledge of marine life but also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts and sustainable management of resources.

If you spot a shark in Norwegian waters, don’t hesitate to call the shark hotline at 55 23 85 60. Remember, your observation could help scientists better understand and protect these fascinating creatures.