Shark attacks increased in 2023 across the world even as the species faces extinction, with Australia recording a disproportionate number of deaths, according to a study released Monday.
The annual report from the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), a database from the University of Florida (United States), reports 69 “unprovoked” shark bites in 2023 worldwide, compared to 63 in 2022. These attacks, more than half of which (36) took place in the United States, left 10 dead, double the number from the previous year.
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In its study, Isaf distinguishes between “unprovoked” attacks and so-called “provoked” attacks, namely bites occurring after a human intentionally approaches a shark or swims in an area where bait is used. to attract fish.
Sharks not necessarily more aggressive
Only “unprovoked” attacks were included in the report, after having been recorded via press articles.
But the increase in these attacks does not mean that sharks are more numerous or becoming more aggressive, emphasizes Gavin Naylor, co-author of the study.
“Overall, the number of sharks has decreased,” he explains.
According to a study published in 2021 in the journal Nature, global populations of sharks and rays have indeed fallen by 71% since 1970.
But due to overfishing and warming waters, sharks are moving closer to the coast to hunt.
This creates a gap between the discourse of scientists and the experience of fishermen, who are observing more and more, points out Gavin Naylor.
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Another element that can play a role: improving water quality.
The latter, for example, had the consequence in 2023 of attracting more fish to the New York coasts and, consequently, bull sharks.
Several people were bitten by sharks last summer near Long Island, prompting authorities to step up anti-shark patrols.
Of the 10 deaths recorded in 2023, four were in Australia, including three in the remote Eyre Peninsula, two in the United States and one each in the Bahamas, Egypt, Mexico and France. Caledonia).
On the Eyre Peninsula, the booming seal population has pushed white sharks closer to shore, coming into greater contact with surfers.
However, the fact that it is an isolated area reduces the chances of rapid treatment for victims, points out Gavin Naylor.