Unexpected Shark Behavior Found in Mexico
- Last update: 04/13/2026
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- Americas
In Mexicos Revillagigedo National Park researchers observed Galapagos sharks rubbing against manta rays in a surprising nonpredatory behavior marking the first formal record of this interaction between two large marine species in the wild.
In the clear waters of Mexico's Revillagigedo National Park, researchers have documented a remarkable interaction between Galapagos sharks and oceanic manta rays. Contrary to typical predatory behavior, these sharks were observed engaging in a form of contact known as chafing, rubbing their bodies against the large rays rather than attempting to hunt them. This observation represents the first formal description of this behavior in Galapagos sharks directed toward another large marine species.
During multiple recorded instances, four Galapagos sharks—two adults and two juveniles—deliberately pressed their bodies against the broad fins of manta rays for brief periods. This contact resembles a rubbing or scraping motion, similar to behaviors previously observed on reefs or the seafloor where sharks remove parasites or soothe irritation on their skin. The manta rays’ expansive bodies appear to offer an alternative surface for this activity, reaching areas that cleaner fish cannot effectively access. In Revillagigedo National Park, cleaner fish remove parasites at designated cleaning stations, but the tough skin of some sharks may prevent complete cleaning, making the manta rays a potential substitute for parasite removal.
Behavioral responses varied according to shark size. Adult sharks prompted manta rays to withdraw, spiral, or leave the current, while juveniles elicited a more tolerant response, with rays remaining nearby and observing the interaction. These reactions indicate that manta rays can differentiate between potential threats and smaller, non-threatening interactions, adjusting their movements accordingly.
Such observations are rare due to the difficulty of long-term monitoring in pelagic environments. The findings suggest that chafing on large marine animals is not limited to Galapagos sharks. Similar behavior has been reported in silky sharks and grey reef sharks, demonstrating that this interaction with manta rays or even whale sharks may be more widespread than previously recognized.
Revillagigedo National Park, created in 2017, encompasses over 148,000 square kilometers surrounding four volcanic islands: Socorro, San Benedicto, Roca Partida, and Clarión. As the largest fully protected marine reserve in North America, it provides a safe habitat for natural behaviors to occur undisturbed. Observations of these interactions emphasize the ecological and scientific importance of preserving large marine reserves, which safeguard biodiversity and allow researchers to study complex behaviors in the wild.
The discovery of Galapagos sharks using manta rays for chafing highlights the subtle and largely hidden dynamics of ocean ecosystems. By protecting such environments, researchers can continue to uncover these rare behaviors, enhancing understanding of interspecies interactions and the intricate balance of marine life.
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Connor Blake
Connor Blake is a reporter and blogger writing about travel, culture, and gastronomy. He specializes in creating engaging stories and photo reports.
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