There are over 500 species of sharks in the world, ranging from the tiny dwarf lanternshark to the massive whale shark.
While sharks are often associated with warm, tropical waters, they can be found in almost every ocean on the planet, including the Baltic Sea.
Despite being a brackish, low-salinity body of water, the Baltic Sea is home to several species of sharks, including the spiny dogfish and the porbeagle.
Read on below to learn more about sharks in the Baltic Sea!
Table of Contents
Sharks in the Baltic Sea
The Baltic Sea is a brackish inland sea located in Northern Europe. It is bordered by nine countries and is connected to the North Sea through the Kattegat and Skagerrak straits.
The Baltic Sea is home to several species of sharks, but their numbers are relatively low compared to other seas around the world.
The most common shark species found in the Baltic Sea is the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias).
This small shark can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and is found in the northern parts of the Baltic Sea. The spiny dogfish is a slow-growing species and is considered vulnerable to overfishing.
Other shark species that can be found in the Baltic Sea include the porbeagle (Lamna nasus), the basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus), and the shortfin mako (Isurus oxyrinchus).
Despite their low numbers, sharks play an important role in the Baltic Sea ecosystem. As apex predators, they help to regulate the populations of other marine species.
However, due to overfishing and habitat loss, many shark populations around the world, including those in the Baltic Sea, are in decline.
Efforts are being made to protect shark populations in the Baltic Sea. The Shark Alliance, a coalition of environmental organizations, is working to promote the conservation of sharks and rays in European waters.
In addition, the European Union has implemented a ban on shark finning, which is the practice of removing shark fins and discarding the rest of the animal back into the sea.
Spiny dogfish
This small shark is also known as the spurdog and is one of the most abundant shark species in the world. It is found in the Baltic Sea and is a popular food fish in many countries.
Small-spotted catshark
This is a small shark that is found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, including the Baltic Sea. It is also known as the lesser-spotted dogfish.
Porbeagle
This is a large shark that is found in the North Atlantic and the Baltic Sea. It is a popular game fish and is also caught for its meat and liver oil.
Basking shark
This is the second-largest living fish and is found in the Baltic Sea. It is a filter feeder and feeds on plankton.
Geographical Distribution
Sharks are known to inhabit various oceans around the world, including the Baltic Sea. The Baltic Sea is a brackish inland sea located in Northern Europe, bordered by several countries, including Denmark, Germany, Finland, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and Russia. The sea is connected to the North Sea through the Skagerrak and Kattegat straits.
The distribution of sharks in the Baltic Sea is influenced by various factors, including the water temperature, salinity, and availability of prey.
The Baltic Sea is known for its cold waters, which are not suitable for most tropical shark species. However, several species of Chondrichthyes, including the spiny dogfish and the porbeagle shark, are known to inhabit the Baltic Sea.
The distribution of sharks in the Baltic Sea is not uniform and varies depending on the species. For example, the spiny dogfish is known to inhabit the northern and eastern parts of the Baltic Sea, while the porbeagle shark is more commonly found in the western part of the sea.
Sharks in the Baltic Sea are not restricted to deep waters and can be found in shallow areas close to beaches, ports, and the coastline.
The crystal clear blue waters of the Baltic Sea make it easier to spot sharks swimming close to the surface.
Despite the presence of sharks in the Baltic Sea, they are not considered a significant threat to humans. However, it is essential to exercise caution when swimming in the sea, especially in areas where sharks are known to inhabit.
Role in the Ecosystem
Sharks play a vital role in the Baltic Sea ecosystem by regulating the population of other marine species. They are apex predators and sit at the top of the food chain, which means that they have a significant impact on the population of their prey.
By preying on smaller marine animals, sharks help to regulate their population, which in turn helps to maintain the biodiversity of the Baltic Sea.
Sharks are also important indicators of the overall health of the Baltic Sea ecosystem. As top predators, they accumulate toxins and pollutants that are present in the environment. By monitoring the health of shark populations, scientists can gain insight into the overall health of the ecosystem.
The presence of sharks in the Baltic Sea helps to maintain a healthy balance between different species. Without sharks, the population of certain marine animals could grow unchecked, which could have a negative impact on the overall health of the ecosystem.
It is important to note that the number of sharks in the Baltic Sea has declined in recent years due to overfishing and habitat loss.
This decline has had a negative impact on the ecosystem, as it has disrupted the balance between different species. To maintain a healthy ecosystem, it is important to protect shark populations and their habitats.
Threats and Conservation
Sharks in the Baltic Sea face several threats that impact their survival. These threats include pollution and overfishing.
The Shark Alliance, a coalition of NGOs dedicated to the conservation of sharks in European waters, has identified these threats and is working towards their mitigation.
Pollution is a significant threat to the survival of sharks in the Baltic Sea. The sea is heavily polluted due to industrial and agricultural runoff, which results in high levels of toxins in the water.
These toxins accumulate in the food chain, and sharks, as apex predators, are at the top of the food chain. As a result, they are highly susceptible to the effects of pollution, which can lead to reduced fertility, developmental abnormalities, and even death.
Overfishing is another significant threat to sharks in the Baltic Sea. Many shark species are critically endangered due to overfishing. The Shark Alliance is working to reduce overfishing and promote sustainable fishing practices in the Baltic Sea.
The Alliance is also advocating for the establishment of marine protected areas where sharks can thrive.
Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of sharks in the Baltic Sea. The Shark Alliance is calling for more research into the biology and ecology of sharks in the Baltic Sea.
This research will help inform conservation efforts and aid in the development of effective management plans. The Alliance is also working to raise public awareness about the importance of sharks in the Baltic Sea ecosystem.
Interaction with Humans
Sharks are a natural part of the Baltic Sea ecosystem, and their presence is important for maintaining a healthy marine environment.
However, human activities can have an impact on sharks, and vice versa. In this section, we will explore some of the ways that humans and sharks interact in the Baltic Sea.
Distribution and Presence
Sharks are present in the Baltic Sea, but they are not as common as in other parts of the world. The most common species found in the Baltic Sea is the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias), which is a small shark that can grow up to 1.5 meters long.
Other species that have been observed in the Baltic Sea include the porbeagle (Lamna nasus), the basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus), and the smooth-hound (Mustelus spp.).
Divers and Swimming
Scuba diving is a popular activity in the Baltic Sea, and some divers may encounter sharks while exploring the underwater world.
While sharks are generally not aggressive towards humans, divers should always exercise caution and avoid provoking or harassing sharks.
Swimming in the Baltic Sea is also a popular activity, but it is important to be aware of the potential presence of sharks and to take appropriate precautions.
Feed and Meat
Sharks are sometimes caught by fishermen in the Baltic Sea, either intentionally or as bycatch. The meat of some shark species is considered a delicacy in some countries, and is used in dishes such as shark soup.
However, due to concerns about overfishing and the impact on shark populations, some countries have implemented regulations to limit or ban shark fishing in the Baltic Sea.
Cosmetics
Sharks are also used in the cosmetics industry, particularly for their liver oil, which is rich in squalene. Squalene is used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, lipsticks, and sunscreens.
However, there is growing concern about the sustainability of using shark liver oil in cosmetics, and some companies have started to use alternative sources of squalene.
Shark Attacks
Shark attacks on humans are rare in the Baltic Sea, and there have been no reported fatalities in recent history.
However, it is still important to be aware of the potential risks and to take appropriate precautions when swimming or diving in the Baltic Sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of sharks are commonly found in European waters?
There are several species of sharks that are commonly found in European waters, such as the basking shark, blue shark, porbeagle shark, and thresher shark.
However, it is important to note that the presence of sharks in the Baltic Sea is relatively rare.
Are there any dangerous animals in the Baltic Sea?
While there are no known dangerous animals in the Baltic Sea, it is still important to exercise caution when swimming or diving.
Some common marine animals found in the Baltic Sea, such as jellyfish and crabs, can deliver painful stings or bites.
Are there any reported shark attacks in the Baltic Sea?
There have been no documented cases of shark attacks in the Baltic Sea. The low salinity levels and cooler temperatures of the Baltic Sea make it an unlikely habitat for many shark species.
What is the average water temperature in the Baltic Sea?
The average water temperature in the Baltic Sea varies depending on the time of year and location.
In the summer months, water temperatures can reach up to 20°C (68°F) in some areas, while in the winter months, temperatures can drop to below freezing.
What are some common fish species found in the Baltic Sea?
The Baltic Sea is home to a diverse range of fish species, including herring, cod, salmon, and flounder.
However, overfishing and pollution have had a significant impact on fish populations in the Baltic Sea.
Are there any conservation efforts in place to protect marine life in the Baltic Sea?
Yes, there are several conservation efforts in place to protect marine life in the Baltic Sea. The Helsinki Convention, signed by countries bordering the Baltic Sea, aims to protect the marine environment and promote sustainable development in the region.
Additionally, organizations such as the WWF are working to promote sustainable fishing practices and reduce pollution in the Baltic Sea.
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