The Glimmering Gaze of a Blue Shark
Into the Blue of Azores Archipelago,
Faial Island — Portugal
The genetic wisdom of sharks has allowed them to be the most resilient inhabitants on this planet, longer than trees, but it is unfortunate that most of the species are now under serious threat due to human activities.
The Fearless “Parata” of French Polynesia,
An Oceanic Whitetip shark hooked on a line
Oceanic shark species are special. They are travelers of the vast ocean, vulnerable because they take greater risks in catching prey, the same reason why they are also among the most threatened sharks species.
All too often, they fall victim to commercial longliners on the high seas and fishermen's traps.
The lagoons surrounding the islands of French Polynesia are home to a rich diversity of reef sharks such as Blacktip reef sharks, Whitetip reef sharks, Grey reef sharks, and Silvertip sharks.
As we know today, sharks play a crucial role in balancing marine ecosystems, and the most visible example is that where sharks are present, coral reefs thrive.
The least “sharp” of all sharks: A Starry Ocean Giant
Sharks are important spiritual symbols in French Polynesia. They are considered spirit guardians in ancient Polynesian and ma’ohi cultures and whale sharks are seen as celestial beings, navigators and wayfinders, symbolizing wisdom and safe passage across the ocean. I never expected to find the biggest fish of the ocean in French Polynesia as they are rarely seen. Luckily I did, after seen whale sharks of double the size (16 meters) in the Sea of Cortez it was a wonderful surprise.
Whale Shark in The Sea of Cortez - Mexico
