Fishermen accidentally catch a 2.5-meter goblin shark at a depth of 900 meters in Gran Canaria and record one of the rarest creatures of the deep ocean still alive.

Written by Caio Aviz

Published on 27/05/2026 at 12:41

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Rare record in the Canary Islands shows how recreational fishermen found, documented, and released alive a 2.5-meter goblin shark caught at 900 meters depth in Gran Canaria, expanding the scientific mystery about one of the rarest and least observed species of the deep ocean

A rare encounter in the deep waters of Gran Canaria caught the attention of the scientific community and once again put the goblin shark at the center of marine research. The animal, estimated at 2.5 meters in length, was accidentally caught by recreational fishermen off the coast of San Cristóbal, at about 900 meters depth.

According to researchers from the University of La Laguna, the case was recorded in 2025 and represents a significant confirmation of the presence of Mitsukurina owstoni in the Canary Islands. The animal was photographed, filmed, and then returned alive to the sea, without apparent external signs of injury.

Accidental encounter reveals rare animal in Canary waters

During recreational fishing, the sailors used common equipment, with reel, hook, and bait of squid and mackerel. The shark appeared in deep waters and surprised the group with its flabby body, elongated snout, and protrusible jaws.

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Physical characteristics reinforce the rarity of the goblin shark

The goblin shark, known scientifically as Mitsukurina owstoni, attracts attention for its unusual appearance and adaptations related to the abyssal environment. The species has a long and flat snout, thin teeth, and small eyes, and lacks a protective nictitating membrane.

According to preliminary identification, the observed individual would be a young female, due to the estimated size and absence of male copulatory organs. This detail increases the scientific value of the record, as few live specimens have been documented under similar conditions.

Deep refuge makes archipelago relevant for science

The waters of the Canary Islands offer important conditions for vulnerable abyssal species. The restriction on trawling has reduced human impacts in deep areas and favored the conservation of animals little observed by science.

As a result, the submarine slopes of the archipelago have become strategic areas for monitoring deep marine biodiversity. The region helps researchers better understand the distribution of rare species in the central-eastern Atlantic.

Record expands data on little-documented species

The scientific journal Thalassas: The International Journal of Marine Sciences highlighted that the record contributes to expanding knowledge about the geographical distribution of Mitsukurina owstoni. Fewer than 250 individuals have been documented worldwide, making each sighting relevant to science.

The case also reinforces the need to protect abyssal ecosystems that are still little known. The lack of data on the seabed limits conservation actions and increases concern about future human pressures on these areas.

Accidental captures require care and quick communication

Unexpected encounters with abyssal species require quick, careful handling limited to the essentials. Fishermen should avoid lifting the animal unnecessarily, reducing physical stress and risk of injury.

Recording location, depth, and images also helps researchers validate rare occurrences. After returning to the sea, environmental authorities and local experts should be informed so that the data supports conservation studies.

What does this encounter reveal about the deep ocean?

The case of Gran Canaria shows that the deep ocean still holds rare, ancient, and little-understood species. Each record of the goblin shark helps science piece together this submerged puzzle.

After all, how many other mysterious animals still live far from the surface, just waiting for a rare opportunity to be known?

Fishermen accidentally catch a 2.5-meter goblin shark at a depth of 900 meters in Gran Canaria and record one of the rarest creatures of the deep ocean still alive.

Rare record in the Canary Islands shows how recreational fishermen found, documented, and released alive a 2.5-meter goblin shark caught at 900 meters depth in Gran Canaria, expanding the scientific mystery about one of the rarest and least observed species of the deep ocean

Accidental encounter reveals rare animal in Canary waters

Physical characteristics reinforce the rarity of the goblin shark

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Deep refuge makes archipelago relevant for science

Record expands data on little-documented species

Accidental captures require care and quick communication

What does this encounter reveal about the deep ocean?

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Fishermen accidentally catch a 2.5-meter goblin shark at a depth of 900 meters in Gran Canaria and record one of the rarest creatures of the deep ocean still alive.

Rare record in the Canary Islands shows how recreational fishermen found, documented, and released alive a 2.5-meter goblin shark caught at 900 meters depth in Gran Canaria, expanding the scientific mystery about one of the rarest and least observed species of the deep ocean

Accidental encounter reveals rare animal in Canary waters

Physical characteristics reinforce the rarity of the goblin shark

The USA is offering almost R$ 1 million for anyone who can stop invasive mussels that hitchhike on boats, spread through rivers and lakes, and threaten to clog water systems, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants.

Deep refuge makes archipelago relevant for science

Record expands data on little-documented species

Accidental captures require care and quick communication

What does this encounter reveal about the deep ocean?

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