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Rare Footage Captures Octopus Hitching a Ride on a Mako Shark

University of Auckland researchers documented the unusual interaction in New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf, sparking curiosity about marine ecosystems.

The two species generally don't come into contact with one another.
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Many in the comments called them 'sharktopus.'
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Overview

  • The encounter, filmed in December 2023 and released in March 2025, shows a Maori octopus clinging to the back of a shortfin mako shark.
  • The interaction is highly unusual as octopuses typically live on the seabed, while mako sharks inhabit open ocean waters.
  • Researchers observed the pair for 10 minutes using drones and underwater cameras, but the outcome of the interaction remains unknown.
  • The footage highlights the importance of marine conservation and protecting endangered species like the shortfin mako shark, whose populations are declining due to overfishing.
  • The viral video has captivated public attention, emphasizing the mysteries of ocean life and the role of technology in uncovering these rare events.