Discovery of a New Nursery Area for Smooth Hammerhead Sharks in Galápagos
The Galápagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) has reported the discovery of a nursery site for smooth hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna zygaena) in a small bay off Isabela Island. This finding, made during a recent expedition conducted by Greenpeace in the Galapagos Marine Reserve, has sparked significant interest within the scientific community due to the scarcity of sightings of smooth hammerhead sharks in their early life stages.
Smooth hammerhead sharks, classified as vulnerable since 2018 according to the IUCN Red List, are distributed in tropical and subtropical waters globally. Their distinctive feature is the absence of the typical heart-shaped notch seen in the common hammerhead shark. With the support of scientists and strategic allies, the environmental authority will gather more information about this new shark nursery area.
During this discovery, a satellite tag was successfully deployed on a sub-adult female smooth hammerhead shark. Tracking her movements over the next months will provide important insights into the effectiveness of the Galápagos Marine Protected Areas, where this species is legally protected.
Dr. Jorge Carrión, our Conservation Director, emphasizes the role these sharks play as apex predators in maintaining the health of the overall marine ecosystem. The discovery of this new nursery area represents a significant advancement for the conservation of this species in our archipelago.
At Galápagos Conservancy, we fund research to deepen our understanding of shark behavior, migratory patterns, and habitats in Galápagos. Such information supports the implementation of effective conservation strategies and fosters close collaboration with the Galápagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) to protect these impressive marine predators.
