VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED: The images below show deceased sharks with visible injuries and may be upsetting to some readers.
Two bluntnose sixgill sharks were discovered in waters off Mallorca with severe injuries believed to be linked to fishing activity, prompting fresh concern about human impacts on marine wildlife in the Balearic Sea.
The animals were found on Tuesday, 19 May, in waters between Illetes and Cala Nova, southwest of Palma. The rescue response was coordinated by the Fundación Palma Aquarium after emergency services received a call from a member of the public who spotted an animal floating at sea.
While the rescue team was travelling to the location, the Guardia Civil reported they had already located one of the sharks and assisted by towing it closer to shore. However, upon arrival and with support from Cala Nova harbour staff, rescuers discovered there were not one but two animals in the area.
Both sharks were identified as adult female bluntnose sixgill sharks (Hexanchus griseus), a large deep-water species considered one of the most ancient shark lineages still living today.
Conservation specialists reported that both animals were in otherwise good physical condition but had suffered devastating injuries to the dorsal area. The wounds had severed the spinal cord, causing the deaths of both sharks.
Experts involved in the examination stated that the injuries appeared consistent with intentional cuts caused by sharp objects and suggested a likely interaction with fishing equipment.
Although the exact circumstances remain under investigation, interactions between fishing operations and bluntnose sixgill sharks are not uncommon in the Mediterranean. Due to their large size and strength, these sharks can occasionally become accidentally caught in longlines and other fishing gear, creating safety risks for fishing crews and potentially damaging equipment.
The bluntnose sixgill shark typically inhabits waters hundreds of metres below the surface but can occasionally move into shallower areas during certain periods of the year, increasing the likelihood of encounters with human activity.
Both specimens were transported to Fundación Palma Aquarium facilities for scientific study and sample collection. Researchers hope the findings will improve understanding of shark populations in Balearic waters and help identify threats facing marine wildlife around the islands.
Marine conservation teams also stressed that the vast majority of fishermen operate responsibly, while highlighting the importance of continued collaboration between fishing communities, scientists, conservation groups, and public institutions to ensure fishing activity and marine conservation can coexist sustainably.
The discovery has renewed attention on the challenges facing vulnerable marine species in the Mediterranean and the growing importance of protecting biodiversity in Balearic waters.
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