But researchers aren't sure whether the octopus intended to ride on a shark's head. The shortfin mako is a large shark with big black button eyes and is extremely fast. Photo: Shutterstock Like ...

An unexpected marine phenomenon was observed in New Zealand waters: an octopus riding a shark. This unusual scene, captured by researchers, raises questions about interactions between marine species.

The dorsal fin slicing through the Hauraki Gulf belonged to a shortfin mako—the world’s fastest shark. But something was… off. Its head bore a large orange smear. “At first, I was like ...

Marine researchers in New Zealand have documented an unprecedented interaction between a shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) and an octopus. During a December 2023 expedition in the Hauraki ...

Shortfin mako sharks are the fastest shark species in the world, reaching top speeds of up to 46 mph (74 km/h). They can grow as long as 12 feet (3.7 m) and weigh as much as 1,200 pounds (545 ...

A video shows a Maori octopus hitchhiking on a shortfin mako shark in the Hauraki Gulf near New Zealand's North Island. Observed by marine scientists from the University of Auckland in December 2023, ...

While on a research trip in December 2023, marine scientists observed an octopus attached to the head of a shortfin mako shark. The sighting was off the northern coast of the North Island of New ...

Sometimes we all need a little help. And it can come from unlikely places. Carla Mascarenhas is the NSW correspondent covering breaking news, state politics and investigations. She is based in ...