Sharklife

02/09/2026

Our interns recently headed onto the rocky shores around Sodwana Bay to learn more about intertidal biodiversity and the methods used to monitor these habitats.

Sharklife supports Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s long-term Rocky Shore Monitoring Programme, which tracks changes in intertidal biodiversity and helps identify the effects of pressures such as climate change and harvesting.

The monitoring incorporates standardised approaches developed through the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON), including species identification and photographic surveys.

For our interns, it is a chance to move beyond simply identifying what lives in a rock pool and understand how repeated observations become useful long-term ecological data.

31/08/2026

31/08/2026

One BRUV drop. Eleven grey reef sharks. Then a tiger shark at the end.

This is exactly why BRUV surveys are so valuable. A single deployment can reveal a lot about how sharks are using the reef.

This footage comes from Sharklife’s long-term BRUV monitoring in the iSimangaliso MPA. Our latest article explores what hundreds of these surveys have revealed about sharks, rays and wedgefish off Sodwana Bay.

Full article: https://sharklife.co.za/when-are-sharks-and-rays-recorded-around-sodwana-bay/

28/08/2026

Three remarkable facts about humpback whales off iSimangaliso

Every winter, humpback whales pass the iSimangaliso coast as part of the western Indian Ocean migration.

Swipe through for three facts about their migration route, newborn calves and the close relationship between mothers and calves.

For more detail, read the full article here:
https://sharklife.co.za/three-remarkable-facts-about-humpback-whales-off-isimangaliso/

09/08/2026

Today our team headed out for a day of marine research and ecological monitoring, with our interns joining us in the field.

We deployed and retrieved BRUVs, which record marine life in a standardised and non-invasive way. The footage can later be analysed to identify species and examine marine community composition, contributing to long-term ecological monitoring.

We also worked with our RUV systems, retrieving deployed units and carrying out routine servicing such as changing batteries and SD cards. This gave the interns a chance to see the full field process, from deploying equipment to maintaining it and collecting the data used in research. 🔬 🌊

The day finished with freediving and underwater observation, giving the interns practical experience of the skills and conditions involved in marine fieldwork.🤿

05/08/2026

Not every day in marine research is spent at sea. 🌊

Weather conditions can be unpredictable, and when the ocean isn’t accessible, learning doesn’t stop. Instead, we take the opportunity to explore the incredible ecosystems surrounding us.

A visit to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park gives our students a broader understanding of conservation by highlighting the connections between terrestrial and marine environments. From protecting biodiversity to understanding ecosystem health, conservation extends far beyond the coastline.

By experiencing one of Africa’s oldest protected areas, our interns gain valuable insight into the importance of preserving natural habitats and the role protected areas play in safeguarding wildlife for future generations.

03/08/2026

As the final few members of this group head home, we’d like to say goodbye to Leo, who left last week after spending two months with us, and to Pau, Lola, and Rio, who departed today, marking the end of another rewarding chapter at Sharklife.

Over the past month, Lola and Rio immersed themselves in marine research, conservation, and fieldwork, contributing to ongoing projects while developing practical skills and gaining experience that will support their future studies and careers. We wish Lola and Rio every success as they return to their universities.
Congratulations to Pau on completing his two month training programme and achieving his PADI Rescue Diver certification. His dedication and commitment throughout the programme have been outstanding, and we look forward to seeing where his diving journey takes him next.
Every group that joins Sharklife contributes to our ongoing research and conservation efforts, and this team was no exception. Thank you all for your enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to learn. The knowledge gained, and experiences shared throughout your time here are something you’ll carry with you long after leaving.

From everyone at Sharklife, thank you, Leo, Pau, Lola, and Rio. Safe travels, and we wish you every success in your future studies, research, and adventures.

24/07/2026

Congratulations to Lola on earning her Advanced Open Water Diver certification!🙌

Dive training is a key part of Sharklife’s Marine Biology Training Internship. It builds the skills participants need to work safely and confidently in marine research environments.

A great milestone in Lola’s development, with plenty more field experience still to come.

23/07/2026

What can scientists learn from just 60 minutes underwater?👀

Here’s a glimpse of what our BRUVs capture during marine surveys. Every deployment provides valuable data that helps scientists better understand, monitor, and protect our oceans.

Each deployment is analysed over a standard 60-minute period.

Stereo cameras allow scientists to identify and accurately measure animals.

Species featured:
Clip 1: Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier)
Clip 2: Honeycomb Moray (Gymnothorax flavimarginatus)
Clip 3: Scalloped Hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini)
Clip 4: Scalloped Hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini)
Clip 5: Himantura sp.

One exciting finding from the 2025 survey was that several tiger sharks recorded on our BRUVs were estimated to exceed three metres in length!! 🫨

20/07/2026

This week, we say thank you and goodbye to Archie and Jules as they complete their six and five month university placement with Sharklife.
Over the past few months, they have become valued members of our team, and we are grateful for the time, commitment, and support they have given to Sharklife.

As they take the next step in their journey, we wish them every success in their studies and future careers.
Thank you, Archie and Jules.
You’ll always be part of the Sharklife family, good luck from all of us at Sharklife.🫶👐