Yes, sharks can be found in the waters around Cyprus, including species such as the blacktip and sandbar shark.
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Yes, sharks can indeed be found in the waters around Cyprus, including species such as the blacktip and sandbar shark. According to the Cyprus Shark Project, thirteen species of sharks and rays have been observed in Cypriot waters, including the rare blue shark. The island’s location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, combined with its warm Mediterranean climate, make it an attractive spot for these creatures.
Interestingly, while many people may be wary of swimming in waters with sharks, the Cyprus Shark Project aims to change public opinion by educating people about the vital role sharks play in marine ecosystems: “Sharks have an undeserved reputation as mindless killers of people when, in fact, people are the biggest threat to sharks,” says the project’s founder, who notes that “studies show that sharks are more afraid of humans than we are of them.” In fact, many species of sharks found in Cyprus, such as the sandbar and blacktip, are considered relatively harmless to humans.
Below is a table showcasing some of the species of sharks and rays that may be found in Cypriot waters:
| Species | Common Name |
|---|---|
| Carcharhinus limbatus | Blacktip Shark |
| Carcharhinus plumbeus | Sandbar Shark |
| Prionace glauca | Blue Shark |
| Squatina squatina | Angel Shark |
| Mobula mobular | Devil Ray |
| Torpedo marmorata | Marbled Electric Ray |
| Dasyatis pastinaca | Common Stingray |
| Myliobatis aquila | Common Eagle Ray |
| Aetomylaeus bovinus | Pelagic Stingray |
| Gymnura altavela | Long-headed Butterfly Ray |
| Rhinobatos rhinobatos | Common Guitarfish |
| Taeniura grabata | Bluespotted Stingray |
| Himantura uarnak | Honeycomb Stingray |
As famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau once said, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” And for those lucky enough to dive into the waters of Cyprus, they may just find themselves spellbound by these magnificent creatures of the deep.
Answer in the video
There are sharks in Cyprus waters, though they are mostly harmless species such as the Mediterranean and Sandbar sharks. However, dangerous species like great white and tiger sharks have been reported as well. Safety guidelines should be followed while swimming to avoid any incidents as shark sightings have been reported.
Other options for answering your question
Experts say that sharks mostly inhabit the waters around Cyprus to breed and therefore pose little to no risk to those looking to enjoy Cyprus’s magical beaches. Funnily enough, they’re so rarely seen around the island that sightings often make news headlines in the local media.
Cyprus is a country that relies heavily on the income brought by tourists. So before going on vacation, some people like to check whether or not they can go swimming safely without having to worry about sharks. Common sharks in Cyprus include the basking, blue, and thresher sharks.