Rare Megamouth Shark Caught Off The Coast Of Japan

A megamouth shark was caught off the coast of Shizuoka, Japan. Officials said the 13-foot-long female shark is incredibly rare. Scientists with the Marine Science Museum are currently conducting a necropsy, which is open to the public.

The necropsy is expected to reveal important information about the mysterious species. As megamouth sharks are rarely seen or captured, little is known about their life-cycle and behavior.

Researchers said the 1,500 pound shark was captured at a depth of 2,600 feet. It is unclear whether the shark was caught dead or alive. However, it appears to be in good condition.

Close to 1,500 people have gathered to witness the necropsy. The spectators include researchers and local residents, who simply want to catch a glimpse of the mysterious creature.

As reported by Boston.com, megamouth sharks were first discovered in 1976. Since the discovery of their existence, only 58 have been observed or captured.

In 1990, scientists tagged a live megamouth shark and observed his behavior for two days. Researchers noted that the shark spent his days in the deep sea, returning to more shallow waters at sunset. This behavior indicates the rare sharks are vertical migrators.

Scientists believe the sharks’ movements mimic the behavior of krill, which are their main source of food. Although the megamouth’s behavior is similar to other vertical migrating fishes, they have distinct differences in appearance.

Most deep water fishes have an enlarged abdominal cavity, which reduces buoyancy. However, megamouth sharks have soft and loose skin and connective tissues, which reduce specific gravity.

The sharks are also unique, as they have tiny teeth and a large rounded head. Researchers believe the sharks feed by opening and expanding their large jaws, which capture the krill as they swim.

As discussed by the Florida Museum of Natural History, megamouth sharks, basking sharks, and whale sharks, are the only three known “giant filter-feeding sharks in the sea.”

The megamouth is the second rare shark captured within the last month. In April, a Georgia fisherman caught a goblin shark off the Gulf of Mexico. Witnesses estimate the deep sea shark was close to 15-feet-long.

As reported by CNN, the fisherman took numerous photos before releasing the goblin shark back into the sea. Researchers will use the photographs to gather more information about the rare and mysterious species.

Deep sea fishes are quite interesting and rare. The megamouth shark captured in Japan will allow researchers to learn more about the mysterious creatures’ habits, behavior, and life cycle.

[Images via PBS and WPTV]