New Study Proves Sharks Sleep Too

KOMPAS.com – There is an assumption that says that shark no sleep at all. They have to keep moving so they can breathe.

But a new study has finally confirmed that sharks sleep too.

“We have provided the first physiological evidence of sleep in sharks,” the research team from the University of Western Australia wrote in their report.

Citing Science Alert, Wednesday (9/3/2022) there are two phases of sleep that play an important role in birds and mammals. But not much is known about this phase in cold-blooded vertebrates such as sharks.

Also read: Why did the Megalodon Shark become extinct?

The research team led by ecophysiologist Michael Kelly then finally investigated the signs of sleep in draftsboard sharks (Cephaloscyllium isabellum).

After monitoring the sharks for 24 hours, researchers revealed that their oxygen levels consistently decreased during the resting period, proving that they were indeed sleeping.

“Shark sleepers not only reduce their response to stimuli. They also have lower metabolic behavior,” Kelly said.

According to researchers, sharks sleep more during the day with their eyes closed. This blind eye behavior is more likely to be related to external factors such as the presence of light.

While at night, 38 percent of sharks keep their eyes open while sleeping even when showing they are fast asleep.

Another indicator that shows that sleeping shark is through his posture. The team found that while asleep, draftsboard sharks kept their bodies flat.

Also read: Rare Ghost Shark Found in New Zealand Waters, Like What?

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