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Costa Rica is renowned for its rich marine biodiversit, and its waters serve as a vital habitat for numerous shark species. Located in the eastern tropical Pacific, the country's coastal regions, including the Cocos Island Marine Par and the Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, provide ideal conditions for both migratory and resident shark.

**1. Whale Shark (*Rhincodon typus*)**

The **whale shark**, the largest fish in the ocean, is a frequent visitor to Costa Rican waters, particularly around **Cocos Island** and the **Bat Islands**. These gentle giants are filter feeders, consuming plankton and small fish. While they are mostly seen in the Pacific, occasional sightings occur in the Caribbean. Whale sharks are classified as **endangered** due to threats like bycatch and illegal fishing.

**2. Scalloped Hammerhead Shark (*Sphyrna lewini*)**

One of the most iconic sharks in Costa Rica is the **scalloped hammerhead**, famous for its large schools around **Cocos Island**. This species is critically endangered due to overfishing for its fins. Hammerheads are highly migratory, traveling between coastal nurseries and open ocean habitats. Cocos Island is one of the few places where divers can witness massive hammerhead aggregations.

**3. Tiger Shark (*Galeocerdo cuvier*)**

The **tiger shark** is a powerful apex predator found in both the Pacific and Caribbean waters of Costa Rica. Known for its distinctive stripes and broad diet (including fish, turtles, and even other sharks), tiger sharks play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance. They are often spotted near **Murciélago Islands** and **Cocos Island**.

**4. Bull Shark (*Carcharhinus leucas*)**

The **bull shark** is unique for its ability to thrive in both **saltwater and freshwater**, sometimes entering Costa Rican rivers like the **Río San Juan**. These aggressive sharks are common in coastal areas, including **Gulf of Papagayo** and **Tortuguero**. Bull sharks are responsible for many shark-human interactions due to their preference for shallow waters.

**5. Silky Shark (*Carcharhinus falciformis*)**

The **silky shark** is a sleek, fast-moving species often seen in **offshore waters** near Cocos Island. These sharks are highly social and frequently follow schools of tuna. Unfortunately, they are heavily targeted by commercial fisheries, leading to declining populations.

**6. Blacktip Reef Shark (*Carcharhinus melanopterus*)**

Common in **shallow coral reefs** and lagoons, the **blacktip reef shark** is found along Costa Rica's Pacific coast. They are easily identified by the black tips on their fins and are generally harmless to humans unless provoked.

**7. Whitetip Reef Shark (*Triaenodon obesus*)**

The **whitetip reef shark** is a nocturnal hunter commonly seen resting in caves and coral reefs around **Cocos Island** and **Caño Island**. Unlike most sharks, whitetips can pump water over their gills, allowing them to remain stationary while resting.

**8. Nurse Shark (*Ginglymostoma cirratum*)**

The **nurse shark** is a slow-moving, bottom-dwelling species found in both the **Caribbean and Pacific** coasts. They are harmless to humans and often seen resting under rocky ledges or in mangrove forests.

**9. Great Hammerhead Shark (*Sphyrna mokarran*)**

The **great hammerhead**, the largest of the hammerhead species, is occasionally spotted in Costa Rican waters. Like its relatives, it is critically endangered due to overfishing.

**10. Mako Shark (*Isurus oxyrinchus*)**

The **shortfin mako**, one of the fastest sharks, inhabits Costa Rica's **offshore waters**. Highly prized in sport fishing, makos are vulnerable to overexploitation.

**Conservation Challenges**

Many shark species in Costa Rica face **overfishing, habitat loss, and illegal finning**. Cocos Island is a protected marine area, but enforcement remains a challenge. Organizations like **Misión Tiburón** and government policies aim to safeguard these vital predators.

Costa Rica's waters host an incredible diversity of sharks, from the massive whale shark to the elusive hammerhead. Protecting these species is crucial for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Responsible tourism, sustainable fishing practices, and stronger conservation laws are essential to ensure sharks continue thriving in Costa Rican seas. By raising awareness and supporting conservation efforts, we can help preserve these magnificent creatures for future generations.

The post Shark Species Found in Costa Rican Waters appeared first on The Costa Rica News.

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