Conservationist and biologist Forrest Galante described the scene, which was filmed in May, as nothing short of “incredible.” He added, “This is the first time in history one of the Papuan species of epaulettes has been documented walking.”
These unique sharks are typically found along the southern regions of Papua New Guinea and the northern stretches of Australia. Scientists believe they evolved this astonishing ability to walk because it allowed them to access food sources in areas where other sharks couldn’t venture.
Gavin Naylor, director of the Florida Program for Shark Research at the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville, explained, “All traits are selected for when it allows [a species] to survive better and eke out an environment where they’re safe and can get food.” He further detailed how epaulette sharks have learned to climb up reefs and position themselves in tide pools, where they can access prey like crabs, worms, and other invertebrates.
These nocturnal creatures may be small in size, but they have been known to nip at people when handled. What’s truly fascinating is their ability to travel more than 30 meters across land and spend up to an hour out of water with a single breath. This evolutionary adaptation helps them survive in tide pools with low oxygen levels, allowing them to hunt for their preferred meals in shallow coral reefs.
Epaulette sharks are easily distinguishable by the distinctive black dots on their backs, with each individual having a unique pattern. Some scientists, including Naylor, theorize that they can even change their color patterns at will, although further research is needed to confirm this intriguing ability.
In the world of sharks, the epaulette shark stands out not just for its distinctive behavior but also for its extraordinary adaptability to different environments, showcasing the fascinating diversity of life in our oceans.
