By ALEXANDREA BAILEY
Special to the PRESS
Following the four confirmed shark bite incidents occurring on the Fourth of July, many Islanders might be concerned to hear of the rising population of juvenile bull sharks in the Gulf of Mexico. However, a marine life expert has confirmed these incidents are extremely rare.
According to Lindsay Mullins, a Ph.D. student with the Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture department at Mississippi State and a research assistant with the Northern Gulf Institute, the population of juvenile bull sharks has increased fivefold in the last 20 years due to the rising temperatures in the Gulf.
Mullins explained that tropical and subtropical species of bull sharks undergo a winter migration. When waters are warmer for longer, the bull sharks are able to stay in near-shore, nursery-like habitats for extended periods of time. These nursery type habitats can include, but are not limited to, bays and mangroves. The increased population of juvenile bull sharks is an indicator of a healthy marine habitat, according to Mullins.
The rise in temperatures also affects their metabolic rates and increases their energy demands, but research does not show an effect on their temperament.
Last week, the PRESS reported bull sharks have an aggressive nature, according to marine biologist Tony Reisinger. Mullins explained several ways beachgoers can keep themselves safe among these rising populations.
Most cases involving juvenile bull shark bites are cases of mistaken identity, according to Mullins. She advised beachgoers to avoid wearing flashy swimsuits and jewelry when entering the ocean, to avoid entering the water at dusk, dawn and nighttime, and to avoid murky waters.
“If you do see a shark in the water, calmly exit. Do not attempt to interact with the shark in any way,” advised Mullins.
Tabatha Sullivent was easily the most injured victim of the Fourth of July incidents, having lost the majority of her calf. She was quoted by Fox News, saying she mistook the bull shark for a large fish and attempted to “kick it away.” That’s when it “grabbed” her, let her go and began following her to shore before her husband, Cary, came to her rescue.
“It’s important to remember that these kinds of incidents are really rare,” said Mullins, who expressed her sympathy to the four victims.
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