A recent study has challenged the common assumption about shark bites on humans, suggesting that a portion of these incidents might be acts of self-defense rather than predation. The study, conducted by a team of marine biologists from France and published in Frontiers in Conservation Science, indicates that approximately 5% of shark bites on humans could be defensive in nature.
Eric Clua, a shark specialist at PSL University, led the research inspired by observations from his field studies in French Polynesia. Clua noted occurrences where fishermen slaughtered sharks that became trapped in fish pens, with the sharks occasionally biting back in defense. Similarly, there were reports of sharks biting spearfishermen to protect their prey.
The research team first evaluated data from recorded shark bites in French Polynesia between 2009 and 2023, discovering that out of 74 documented bites, about 5% were likely due to self-defense. Expanding their research, they analyzed the Global Shark Attack Files, which has documented nearly 7,000 bites since 1863, and found that a similar 5% of these bites fit the defensive criteria.
These criteria involve bites occurring immediately following perceived aggressive human actions, typically resulting in superficial, non-lethal injuries. Notably, the intensity of a defensive bite might be greater than the provocation, suggesting desperation on the shark’s part.
Clua emphasizes the need for humans to avoid interacting with sharks, particularly in situations where sharks may perceive a threat. He also advises against attempting to aid sharks in distress as they might misinterpret these actions and respond aggressively. The study aims to improve shark bite prevention strategies by identifying the motivations behind these incidents and encouraging people to adopt safer practices when near shark habitats.
Despite the highlighted defensive behavior, sharks generally fear humans, and shark bites are rare compared to other animal attacks. For instance, there were only 88 recorded shark bites worldwide in 2024, resulting in seven deaths. By contrast, animals like hippos can cause hundreds of fatalities annually, and mosquito-borne diseases claim even more lives.
The study also calls for a change in media portrayal of shark bites, urging journalists to consider the context of these incidents rather than automatically blaming the animals. The research team intends to continue investigating other types of shark bites, including exploratory bites where sharks investigate potential prey.
