Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary & Central Coast Presence
Nearshore - The California Current ​​​​​​
The Blue Serengeti
​​The Blue Serengeti refers to an initiative aimed at understanding and conserving marine life in the ocean, particularly in areas known for their biodiversity and ecological importance. ​
Inspired by the terrestrial Serengeti ecosystem in Africa, which is renowned for its diverse wildlife and migration patterns, the Blue Serengeti concept emphasizes the need to protect and manage marine environments in a similar manner. Understanding where these species occur and migrate to can provide key insights necessary to prevent species loss in the California Current and beyond.
Scientists at the Block and Costa labs are using electronic tagging to figure out where these animals like to spend time. The Blue Serengeti Initiative wants to use this information to keep the ecosystem diverse by focusing on these hotspots.
Central Coast White Shark Population Estimates
A study conducted by the Block Lab estimates that there are less than 300 adult and near-adult white sharks off Central California.
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White shark swimming with tag.
White sharks are essential residents of Central California's marine ecosystem, where they function as apex predators crucial for upholding the balance of the marine food chain. Key locations such as the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary serve as vital habitats for these apex predators.
The Block Lab tagging a white shark in Monterey Bay.
Offshore Migration - White Shark Café
The White Shark Café is a remote region in the Pacific Ocean between Baja California and Hawaii. It serves as a notable congregation site for white sharks, particularly during the spring and early summer months. At the White Shark Café, sharks exhibit certain behaviors, such as deep dives and long migrations.
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Expedition records demonstrate the movements of sharks on their way to the White Shark Café.
Scientists are fascinated by the White Shark Café because it plays a crucial role in the migratory patterns of these apex predators. Understanding why white sharks congregate in this specific area is a key focus of research efforts. By studying their behavior, ecology, and movements in this region, scientists aim to gain insights into the migratory behaviors, foraging patterns, and overall biology of white sharks.