The presence of sharks in the Argentine Patagonia is fundamental. In the cold and vast waters of the region, at least 15 species of these animals coexist.
This was detailed by Dr. Nelson Bovcon, a researcher at CONICET and an expert in the marine fauna of the area. From the scalloped hammerhead to the soupfin shark, these sea dwellers play a crucial role in the balance of the coastal ecosystems.
## Sharks in Patagonia: a hidden diversity and a key role
On the coasts of Chubut, the presence of sharks is as discreet as it is significant. “Most of them are small in size and feed mainly on crustaceans such as shrimp and prawns. However, when they reach their maximum size, they change their diet and become more piscivorous,” explains Bovcon.
This feeding cycle ensures their survival, and also helps maintain a balance in the food chain by controlling the populations of their prey.
“The scalloped hammerhead is critically endangered. Although its fishing is prohibited in Brazil, it is allowed without restrictions in Uruguay, which complicates its conservation at a regional level,” he explains by way of example.
However, he argues that the lack of international coordination jeopardizes the survival of this species.
Some of the most common species on the Patagonian coasts are: the leopard shark, the spiny dogfish, the smooth-hound, the school shark, the small-spotted catshark, the angel shark, and others.
## The key role of sharks
Without sharks, the sea would lose its balance. The absence of these predators would lead to an increase in the species they usually prey on, which could result in an ecosystem imbalance.
“Each species has a unique role. If we eliminate a link, an imbalance is generated that can take years to stabilize,” warns Bovcon.
In the Patagonian coasts, including those of Chubut, sharks are pillars of a healthy ecosystem. Their conservation is not only a scientific challenge but also a shared responsibility with local communities.
Thinking about sharks often evokes hostile feelings, tense music, and fear, but in Patagonia, these animals are quite the opposite: they are architects of marine balance.
Sharks in Patagonia are true silent guardians of a balance that, although invisible, affects us all.
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