First Time Sighting: A rare Southern Sleeper Shark was filmed 490 metres deep in Antarctic waters

Southern Sleeper Shark captured 490 meters deep in the Southern Ocean. (Image: Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre)

Researchers filmed a Southern Sleeper Shark in Antarctic waters for the first time, proving sharks can survive extreme cold and broadening knowledge of polar marine life and biodiversity.

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For decades, Antarctica seemed too cold for sharks. Its waters hover near freezing all year round. Sea ice stretches across vast, silent horizons. Yet something unexpected has finally appeared on camera. Scientists have captured the first shark footage in Antarctic waters. The discovery challenges long-held beliefs about polar marine life. It also raises fresh questions about survival in extremes. What else could be swimming beneath the ice?

What Did Scientists Find?

Researchers recorded what appears to be a Southern Sleeper Shark. Its scientific name is Somniosus antarcticus. This deep-sea species prefers cold, dark environments. The shark moved slowly past underwater cameras. Its body looked large, pale and ghostlike. Until now, no shark had been filmed there. The footage provides visual confirmation for scientists.

Where Was This Shark Seen?

The sighting occurred in Antarctic waters. These waters surround the frozen southern continent. Sea temperatures often drop below zero degrees Celsius. The region is remote and rarely explored. This shark appeared in the Southern Ocean depths. The area lies far from regular shipping routes. It is one of Earth’s least disturbed habitats.

Who recorded This Rare Shark?

The footage was recorded by marine researchers. They belong to the Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre. The team specialises in extreme ocean exploration. After reviewing the recordings, they identified the shark.

Marine biologists confirmed its likely species classification. For the scientists involved, the sighting was historic. Years of exploration finally delivered proof. Antarctica’s icy waters are not shark-free after all.

First-ever in situ shark footage from Antarctica 🦈 An unknown sleeper shark was filmed 490m deep in the Southern Ocean near the South Shetland Islands, possibly the elusive Southern sleeper shark. Even now, Antarctica still surprises us.https://t.co/Fr1xSiAcQe

— Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (@AntarcticaSouth) February 12, 2026

How Did Scientists Find This Rare Shark?

Researchers deployed baited underwater camera systems. These cameras sit silently on the ocean floor. They attract marine animals using small bait sources. The equipment records footage for many hours.

Later, scientists analyse the retrieved recordings. Among hours of dark ocean scenes, something emerged. A shark swam calmly into the camera frame. The moment stunned the research team instantly.

Is This Shark Rare To Be Seen?

Yes, this species is rarely observed alive. Southern sleeper sharks inhabit deep, cold waters. They usually remain far below diving depths. Very few have been documented in Antarctic regions. Capturing one on camera in its habitat is extraordinary. It confirms long-standing scientific speculation. Such sightings are exceptionally uncommon worldwide.

What Does This Mean For Science?

The footage expands understanding of Antarctic biodiversity. It suggests sharks tolerate colder waters than expected. Scientists must reconsider species distribution limits. The discovery highlights gaps in polar research. Studying present populations helps predict future movements. The Southern Ocean still hides many secrets. This finding proves exploration remains essential.