Watch: First confirmed shark recorded in Antarctica’s icy waters stuns scientists

Massive Shark Spotted Swimming in Near Freezing Antarctic Depths (Image: AP)

Researchers from the Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre recorded the first confirmed video of a large shark swimming nearly 500 metres deep in Antarctic waters at just above freezing temperatures, as reported by The Associated Press. The unexpected sighting near the South Shetland Islands challenges assumptions that sharks avoid the region. Scientists believe more may exist at these depths, potentially feeding on whale and squid remains in the polar deep sea.

Did our AI summary help?

Scientists have recorded the first confirmed video of a large shark swimming in the freezing waters of the Antarctic Ocean, according to reporting by The Associated Press, challenging long held assumptions about shark absence in the region.

First shark video recorded in Antarctic waters

The footage was captured last month. It was filmed by the Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre. The centre studies life in deep oceans. A remotely operated camera recorded the encounter. The device was deployed near the South Shetland Islands. The site lies off the Antarctic Peninsula.

The shark appeared about 490 metres below. Water temperatures measured just above freezing. Scientists recorded a temperature of 1.27 degrees Celsius. The animal measured roughly three to four metres. Video shows it swimming calmly across seabed. A skate rested motionless nearby. Skates are close relatives of sharks.

A shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica’s near-freezing deep, surprising many experts who had thought sharks didn’t exist in the frigid waters. Read more here: https://t.co/aMGsDj8UTDpic.twitter.com/EL9ixDXWW0

Related Stories

• Rare "Cougar Shadow" to appear on Superstition Mountains from 15 March in Arizona— Here’s When t...
• Grown in Tibet, this rare ‘Black Diamond’ apple can cost up to $20 each—Here’s what makes it...
• Rare Hatchling: Meet this Painted River Terrapin, born at Smithsonian Zoo offering hope for critical...

— The Associated Press (@AP) February 18, 2026

Why the Antarctic shark sighting matters

Researchers had not expected such presence. Many believed sharks avoided Antarctic waters. Alan Jamieson leads the research centre. He said no earlier confirmed record exists. He described the shark as large and powerful. He said these animals resemble underwater tanks.

Jamieson expects further discoveries at similar depths. He believes sharks may scavenge whale remains. They may also feed on giant squid carcasses. Deep sea ecosystems provide occasional food sources. The footage suggests hidden marine populations exist.

Marine biologist Peter Kyne welcomed the finding. He works at Charles Darwin University. He was not involved in research. Kyne called the sighting significant. He suggested sleeper sharks lived there unnoticed. He said timing and placement proved fortunate.

What happens next for Antarctic research

Scientists think the shark remained near 500 metres. That layer may provide slightly warmer water. Conditions there allow limited survival. Further expeditions may confirm additional sightings. Researchers plan deeper and wider surveys. The discovery reshapes understanding of polar seas.