Sharks have developed some seriously cute friendships, reveals study

While we may imagine sharks as solitary creatures, they can have complex social lives, according to a recent study

Credit: Adam Gale


We tend to think of sharks as solitary creatures, but some species hunt in pairs or packs, or form social groups that last for years.

Some sharks even have ‘friends’. A recent study at the Shark Reef Marine Reserve in Fiji found that adult bull sharks choose their social partners, being more likely to interact with those of a similar size.

The males tended to have more social connections – they are smaller than the females, so social integration may help them to avoid confrontations and gain access to food.

Other perks of shark friendship could include learning new skills and meeting potential mates.


This article is an answer to the question (asked by Jessica Day, Bristol) 'Do sharks have friends?'

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