Revealing the Truth: Resting Sharks Challenge Breathing Beliefs

A new study challenges the belief that gray reef sharks, known as obligate ram ventilators, need to constantly swim to breathe. Researchers observed gray reef sharks resting under coral reef ledges in Seychelles, contradicting the previous understanding that these sharks cannot rest. The sharks remained still, except for lower jaw movements indicating a switch to buccal pumping behavior. This discovery raises questions about how sharks cope with rest and the potential impact of environmental changes on their breathing patterns. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the behavior of marine species for conservation efforts.