Researchers have recently identified the largest male Atlantic white shark ever tagged by OCEARCH, a marine research nonprofit, near Nantucket. This impressive shark, named “Contender,” measures 13 feet and 9 inches long and weighs 1,653 pounds, earning the title of “the ultimate ocean warrior” from researchers.
On July 18, the shark’s latest satellite ping revealed his location in the waters off the eastern coast of Massachusetts, between Nantucket Shoals and Georges Bank. Contender was initially tagged in January while off the Florida-Georgia coast, approximately 45 miles from shore. This tagging project aims to track the shark for up to five years to better understand migration patterns of the species.
Since his tagging, Contender has traveled extensively, first heading south to Florida and then northward to the Outer Banks in North Carolina. His most recent ping before the Nantucket location was recorded off the coast of Cape Hatteras in early June.
OCEARCH continues to track Contender and other tagged sharks, contributing valuable data to marine biology and conservation efforts. Following these sharks’ journeys helps researchers create insights that will promote the protection of these majestic creatures and their habitats.
Overall, the ongoing research is a hopeful sign for ocean conservation efforts and emphasizes the importance of understanding marine life.