Shark Research

Mission Statement:

Practicing modern non-invasive methods of monitoring, documenting and observing local shark populations, interspecies dynamics (social cooperatives) and interactions with conspecifics (pinnipeds, cetaceans, fish, birds) in a way that can be shared with the public and benefit a global community. 

HOW: Returning as often as possible (preferably multiple times per day, weather permitting) to natural shark distributions (aggregate sites) reflecting regional variation by species, gender, individual, pack or schooling shark movements over pelagic drop offs where natural upwelling of nutrients and water currents attract marine biota. Locale based on bathymetric modeling and acoustical telemetry to regulate the presence of humans in the natural environment, maximize the collection of data and minimize behavioral impact.

Current Projects:

PHOTO ID: 200+ individually documented multi species shark bank for comparing time/seasonal movements, distinguished behaviors, status of dominance by cataloging and updating photos of unique scars, markings, hooks, notches on right, left and top side of each animal. Focus on dorsal fins of nomadic and resident Tiger populations.

Shark Identification Methodology

During fieldwork—whether on dives or charters—we document unfamiliar sharks by capturing images or video from multiple angles. Using a species-specific field ID sheet, we record key details including sex, estimated size, date, time, location, and observed behaviors. Unique markings or physical traits are sketched and noted for later comparison with digital footage. Once we obtain a full visual ID (left side, right side, top view, and close-ups), our research team reviews and confirms the identification. The individual’s profile is archived and shared through our website and social media to support public awareness and regional monitoring efforts.

Why This Work Matters

Photo identification is a non-invasive, cost-effective method for monitoring individual sharks over time without the need for physical tagging or capture. By documenting distinguishing features and behaviors, we can track movement patterns, site fidelity, and population dynamics while minimizing stress to the animals. This approach supports long-term conservation efforts by building a database of known individuals, helping researchers and the public better understand the role of sharks in marine ecosystems. Making this information accessible also promotes ocean awareness and encourages responsible interactions with wildlife.

SEASONAL MIGRATION PATTERNS: presence of individuals, packs or schools correlated to abiotic weather variants (air temperature, water temperature, pressure systems, moon phase, swell, wind, sunrise/sunset and location).

POPULATION DYNAMICS: monitoring local population status of multiple species. Unfortunately Sandbar and Galapagos are in small decline,  along with decline in Tiger populations. There is near disseverance of Silky, Oceanic BlackTip, Blue and White Shark populations.

BEHAVIORAL STUDIES: tracking and documenting Agonistic displays among competitive or assertive sharks to avoid negative shark/human interaction through peaceful observation (chasing, following, parallel swimming, pectoral dropping, dorsal arching, jaw gaping, checking, gill popping).

CO-OCCURRENCE STUDIES: Launched during the 2025 tiger shark season, this long-term research project analyzes co-occurrence patterns among individually identified tiger sharks to better understand their social dynamics, associations, and relationship patterns. Data collection is ongoing and will continue over the coming tiger shark seasons to identify long-term trends and changes over time.

ULTRASOUND FOR PREGNANT FEMALE TIGER SHARKS: Non-invasive study of how reproductive condition relates to habitat use, movement, behavior, co-occurrence, and seasonal aggregations. These relationships are not yet fully understood, and further research could provide valuable insight into how pregnancy influences tiger shark behavior, social interactions, and movement patterns during mating season.

LASER PHOTOGRAMMETRY: A non-invasive method of measuring sharks’ external body dimensions to investigate how body size correlates with behavior, social interactions, and dominance patterns, providing valuable insight into shark social dynamics.

Ongoing Research:

  • DropCam: in water camera, behavioral tool

  • DropRig: bottom camera (hosted by Keiko Conservation)

  • GreenLaser: implementing standardized tool of measurement for accurate body size of sharks (FL, TL, TCL) in water observation

  • Shark deterrents: electronic based product testing, surfboard and scuba models with GoPro, Anthony Walsh, Tom Carroll, Rpela, ongoing testing and product development

Funding the Science: Donate to Shark Research

We are currently seeking donations to help fund essential research equipment, including laser photogrammetry technology (approximately $3,000–$5,000), underwater ultrasound equipment (approximately $15,000–$30,000), and potential genetic testing tools to better understand relationships and social dynamics among tiger sharks. These specialized tools will allow us to advance our understanding of shark growth, reproductive biology, pregnancy, behavior, and social interactions, contributing valuable scientific knowledge to shark conservation efforts.

If you would like to support our research, please donate through the link provided and email oneoceandiving@gmail.com with:

  • A screenshot of your donation so we can assist with a tax-deduction letter.

  • Which research project or equipment you would like your donation to support.

Every contribution, big or small, helps us advance scientific research and protect these incredible animals for generations to come.

Mahalo nui loa for supporting shark research, education, and conservation!

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