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Basking sharks off Marbella: holidaymakers in danger or just a myth?
Discover current travel destinations on the Mediterranean, learn about basking shark sightings in Marbella and the effects of the climate crisis.
Basking sharks off Marbella: holidaymakers in danger or just a myth?
Holidaymakers on the Marbella coast are enjoying the amenities of their Mediterranean destinations, but recent basking shark sightings are causing mixed feelings. Many people look forward to their vacation, whether by plane or car, and the Mediterranean countries France, Italy and Spain are particularly popular destinations. However, the Instagram account "aquatimemarbella" reported a basking shark spotted off the coast of Marbella, sparking fear among some holidaymakers. A jet ski driver fled, while the recreational sports provider described the sighting as a sensation.
Basking sharks, which can grow up to 12 meters long, are mostly harmless to humans because they feed on plankton. Holidaymakers therefore have nothing to worry about when swimming in the waters around Marbella. Marine biologists from the Fundación Aula del Mar Mediterráneo, who confirmed the shark's species, also emphasize that basking sharks are not dangerous. The images of the shark, taken by Aquatime, a nautical industry company, quickly spread online. In these images, the shark can be seen swimming close to the boat and showing its dorsal fin.
A look at the sightings
Sightings of basking sharks are not uncommon on the Costa del Sol. For example, in 2023, a similar basking shark was spotted in the port of Málaga, and already in 2020 there was a sighting in the Sacaba area (Málaga). These animals usually swim with their mouths open to filter water and eat plankton. It is worth noting that basking sharks are also among the endangered shark species.
Despite this positive news about basking sharks, the Mediterranean faces serious challenges. Rising temperatures caused by the climate crisis are unbalancing the delicate ecosystem and reducing oxygen levels in the water. Professor Christian Wild, an expert in marine ecology, explains the far-reaching effects of increasing temperatures on marine organisms and makes it clear that this is alarming for the entire Mediterranean ecosystem.
In conclusion, it can be said that the Marbella holiday region remains an attractive travel destination despite the basking sharks. Vacationers can enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean without having to worry unnecessarily. Nature shows itself here once again in its fascinating diversity and complexity.