Each year, an estimated 100 million sharks are killed, primarily for their fins, which fuel the shark fin trade. This unsustainable practice has led to severe population declines in many shark species.

The global shark fin industry is valued at over $1 billion annually, yet the economic benefits of live sharks far exceed this figure. Countries that invest in shark conservation and eco-tourism generate hundreds of millions of dollars while preserving these vital marine predators.

​This raises the question: is a shark worth more dead or alive?

Shark Tourism: An Economic Powerhouse​
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Shark-related tourism represents a significant source of revenue for many destinations worldwide. Studies estimate that this sector attracts around 600,000 enthusiasts annually, generating 10,000 direct jobs and annual revenues of $314 million. Projections suggest that this figure could reach $780 million within 20 years.

Key Destinations for Shark TourismThe Bahamas

In 2011, The Bahamas established a shark sanctuary, banning all fishing of these species within its waters. This initiative has boosted the tourism sector, with tour operators offering diving expeditions to observe these marine predators. In 2023, The Bahamas welcomed approximately 8 million visitors, combining air and sea arrivals. Shark tourism significantly contributes to the archipelago's economy.

Mexico: Mexico is renowned for whale shark observation, particularly in regions like the Yucatán Peninsula. Whale shark tourism represents 57% of global shark and ray tourism, with snorkeling opportunities in 19 countries, including Mexico. This activity attracts thousands of divers and snorkelers annually, supporting the local economy.

French Polynesia : French Polynesia, particularly the island of Moorea, is recognized for its shark conservation efforts. Shark-related tourism contributes approximately €2.5 million annually to the local economy. A single lemon shark can generate over €400,000 throughout its lifetime, and this sector accounts for 57% of wildlife-based ecotourism in the region.

Other Notable Destinations

• Palau: Shark-centered ecotourism generates $18 million annually, contributing 8% of the country's GDP.

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• Indian Ocean: According to a study by the Global Shark Diving Association, shark tourism generates estimated annual revenues exceeding $314 million, highlighting the importance of preserving these species for local communities reliant on tourism.

The Importance of Sustainable Practices

While shark tourism offers significant economic opportunities, adopting sustainable practices is essential to ensure the preservation of these species and their habitats. Key measures include:

• Ban on shark feeding: Some destinations, such as French Polynesia, have prohibited shark feeding to prevent behavioral changes and minimize the risk of human dependence.

• Respect for distances and interaction regulations: Strict protocols must be followed to avoid stressing sharks and ensure respectful coexistence.

• Tourist awareness: Educating visitors about sharks' ecological role and the importance of their conservation promotes responsible tourism.

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• Control of diver numbers: Regulating the number of tourists in fragile areas is necessary to limit environmental impact.

By adopting these practices, destinations can continue benefiting economically from shark tourism while preserving these essential oceanic creatures.
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The sustainable development of this industry depends on balancing economic exploitation and conservation, ensuring shark protection for future generations.

Sharks have long captivated human imagination, embodying both the mystery and majesty of the ocean's depths. Beyond their portrayal in popular media, these ancient creatures play a pivotal role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance.

The Ampullae of Lorenzini: Sharks' Sixth SenseOne of the most remarkable adaptations in sharks is the presence of the ampullae of Lorenzini. These specialized electroreceptors, located primarily on the shark's head, allow them to detect minute electrical fields produced by the muscle contractions of potential prey. This capability enables sharks to locate hidden or camouflaged animals beneath the ocean floor. Additionally, these receptors assist in navigation by sensing the Earth's magnetic fields, guiding sharks across vast oceanic expanses.

Guadalupe Island: A Premier Destination for Shark EncountersSituated off the coast of Mexico, Guadalupe Island has emerged as a premier location for observing great white sharks in their natural habitat. The island's clear waters provide an ideal setting for cage diving, offering enthusiasts an up-close experience with these apex predators. However, interactions must be conducted responsibly. Incidents have occurred where sharks, attracted by bait, have become entangled in diving cages, underscoring the need for ethical wildlife tourism practices that prioritize the well-being of both sharks and divers. (National Geographic)
The Global Status of Sharks: A Species in PerilDespite their vital role in marine ecosystems, sharks face unprecedented threats worldwide. Overfishing, driven by demand for shark fins, meat, and liver oil, has decimated many populations. Bycatch—where sharks are unintentionally caught in fishing nets—further exacerbates their decline. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), over one-third of shark species are now endangered or threatened with extinction. Additionally, habitat degradation, climate change, and negative public perception contribute to their struggles. Conservation initiatives, including marine protected areas, fishing regulations, and public awareness campaigns, are essential to safeguarding the future of these incredible predators.

Top Destinations for Shark DivingFor those seeking unforgettable encounters with sharks, the following locations offer some of the most spectacular diving experiences:
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• Guadalupe Island, Mexico – Famous for cage diving with great white sharks in crystal-clear waters.
• Tiger Beach, Bahamas – A world-renowned site for up-close encounters with tiger sharks in shallow, transparent waters.
• Beqa Lagoon, Fiji – Known for bull shark diving without cages, offering a thrilling yet safe experience with multiple shark species.
• Malapascua, Philippines – One of the only places where divers can consistently observe the elusive and majestic thresher sharks.
• Cocos Island, Costa Rica – A remote paradise with schooling hammerhead sharks, best for experienced divers.
• Aliwal Shoal, South Africa – Home to ragged-tooth sharks (sand tiger sharks) and seasonal migrations of blacktip and tiger sharks.
• The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador – A biodiversity hotspot with massive aggregations of hammerheads, whale sharks, and other pelagic species.

Sharks are not just fearsome predators; they are essential to the health of our oceans. Protecting them ensures the stability of marine ecosystems and preserves one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles of the natural world.

Mayotte, a small jewel in the Indian Ocean, is a marine sanctuary where underwater life thrives in all its splendor. Among its most iconic inhabitants, the green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) stand out with their majestic beauty and their crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of coral reefs. In this article, let's dive into the fascinating world of these marine creatures and explore why Mayotte is such an essential stopover for their survival.

A Prime Nesting Ground​

The beaches of Mayotte welcome thousands of green sea turtles each year, coming ashore to lay their eggs. These marine turtles travel thousands of kilometers to return to the beaches of their birth, a phenomenon known as natal homing. This migration, which can take several years, remains one of the greatest mysteries of marine biology.

​The nesting period extends from November to March, when the turtles come ashore on the island’s fine sandy beaches to lay their eggs. After digging a nest, they deposit between 100 and 200 eggs, which they carefully bury before heading back to the sea, leaving the embryos to develop under the warmth of the sand. Once the eggs hatch, the tiny turtles, fragile and vulnerable, face numerous dangers, but many will make their way to the nourishing waters, where they will spend several years before returning themselves.

Green Sea Turtles and Their Ecological

RoleGreen sea turtles play a vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems, especially coral reefs. Their feeding habits mainly consist of seagrasses, aquatic plants found on sandy and rocky bottoms. By grazing on these seagrasses, turtles help regulate their growth, allowing these thriving ecosystems to remain healthy.
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Seagrass meadows are crucial habitats for many marine species, providing food and shelter for young fish and other marine life. By maintaining the balance of these meadows, turtles indirectly foster marine biodiversity, creating a more stable environment for other underwater creatures.

A 50 Million Year Journey

Green sea turtles have existed for over 50 million years, surviving through the ages with remarkable resilience. Their bodies, perfectly adapted for marine life, allow them to swim great distances with ease. Their flattened, rigid shells act as the ultimate defense against predators, while their flipper-like limbs propel them gracefully through the water.
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These turtles can travel thousands of kilometers in open waters, often at depths where they feed on aquatic plants. Yet, despite their great endurance, these marine reptiles face numerous threats. Climate change, plastic pollution, and the destruction of their natural habitats are constant dangers that threaten their survival.

Threats and Conservation: A Fight for Survival​

While Mayotte provides an ideal environment for green sea turtle nesting, these creatures face numerous threats. Uncontrolled tourism development, accidental entanglements in fishing nets, and marine pollution are all challenges to their population. The consumption of turtles by humans in some cultures also represents a significant threat.

One of the most alarming threats comes from climate change. Rising global temperatures directly affect the sex of the turtles. The sex of sea turtles, including green turtles, is determined by the temperature of the sand where their eggs are incubated. Warmer temperatures favor the birth of females, while cooler temperatures produce males. If global warming continues, it could lead to a significant imbalance in turtle populations, with a predominance of females and a shortage of males, which would jeopardize reproduction and the survival of the species.
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However, efforts are being made to protect these magnificent creatures. Conservation programs, such as monitoring nesting beaches and establishing marine sanctuaries, have been launched to safeguard turtles and their habitats. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted among local communities and visitors to reduce the impact of human activity on these vulnerable animals.

Conclusion: Preserving the Ocean’s Beauty

Green sea turtles of Mayotte are more than just a tourist attraction or a biological wonder. They are the sentinels of a fragile ecosystem that, like them, is struggling for survival. Their protection depends on collective awareness and ongoing conservation efforts to ensure that future generations can also marvel at the beauty of these iconic marine creatures.
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By protecting Mayotte’s turtles and their habitat, we are contributing to the preservation of the island’s marine wealth and maintaining the balance of the Indian Ocean. Through their eyes, we can see the urgency of protecting what remains of our planet, because, just like these turtles, the Earth itself is in peril.

The Invasion of the Lionfish: A Silent Marine Crisis

The lionfish (Pterois volitans and Pterois miles), with its striking red and white stripes and venomous spines, is a stunning yet destructive predator wreaking havoc in the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

​Native to the Indo-Pacific, this species was introduced to non-native waters through the aquarium trade, with the first recorded sightings in Florida in the 1980s. Since then, lionfish populations have exploded, threatening coral reef ecosystems and the economic livelihoods dependent on them.

A Relentless Predator with No Natural Enemies​

Lionfish are voracious hunters, consuming a wide variety of marine species, including shrimp, juvenile fish, and commercially important species like snapper and grouper.

​With no natural predators in their invaded habitats, they have multiplied at an alarming rate. Studies have shown that a single lionfish can reduce the population of native reef fish by up to 79% in just five weeks, disrupting the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

​The lionfish is a formidable predator that consumes about 10 to 20% of its body weight daily. On average, an adult lionfish weighs between 1 to 2 kg. Therefore, a 1.5 kg lionfish would eat between 150 to 300 grams of food each day, primarily small fish and crustaceans. This voracious appetite, combined with its ability to invade large marine areas, has made the lionfish an invasive species, disrupting ecosystems, especially in the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific regions.

​Lionfish reproduction is indeed rapid and produces a large number of eggs. Females can lay up to 30,000 eggs per reproductive cycle, and they can spawn every 4 to 6 days throughout the year under optimal conditions. This ability to produce large quantities of eggs, combined with their rapid reproduction rate, allows lionfish populations to multiply quickly. This contributes to their spread into new habitats, exacerbating their ecological impact. Due to their prolific reproduction and the absence of natural predators in many regions where they have been introduced, lionfish become a major problem for marine ecosystems.

The Economic and Environmental Cost of the Lionfish Invasion :

The unchecked spread of lionfish poses severe ecological and economic threats:
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• Damage to Coral Reefs: By preying on herbivorous fish that help control algae growth, lionfish indirectly contribute to reef degradation, leading to coral die-offs and loss of biodiversity.

 

• Impact on Commercial Fisheries: The decline of native fish populations affects commercial fishing industries, reducing catches and threatening the livelihoods of local fishers.

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• Threat to Tourism: Diving tourism, a crucial revenue source in many Caribbean and Atlantic coastal regions, suffers when reefs decline and fish populations dwindle.

Lionfish and Climate Change: A New Threat in the Mediterranean

Traditionally confined to warm waters, lionfish have recently been observed in the Mediterranean Sea, a phenomenon linked to rising sea temperatures due to climate change. The warming of the Mediterranean has created a more hospitable environment for this invasive species, allowing it to spread rapidly.

​This expansion poses a new ecological threat, as lionfish prey on native Mediterranean species that have not evolved defenses against them. The arrival of lionfish in this region further underscores the far-reaching consequences of climate change on marine biodiversity.

Innovative Solutions to Control the Invasion : 

Efforts to manage lionfish populations have led to creative and effective strategies

• Culinary Consumption: Encouraging the consumption of lionfish as a sustainable seafood option has gained traction, with restaurants featuring lionfish dishes to create demand.

 

• Organized Culling Programs: Many coastal communities have implemented lionfish hunting tournaments, rewarding divers for removing as many lionfish as possible.

 

• Predator Training Initiatives: Scientists and conservationists are experimenting with training sharks and other native predators to recognize lionfish as prey.

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• Mechanical Removal Techniques: Specially designed traps are being tested to capture lionfish in deeper waters, where divers cannot reach them.

A Call for Conservation Action

Addressing the lionfish invasion requires a collaborative effort among governments, scientists, conservation organizations, and local communities. Public awareness campaigns, research funding, and policy changes supporting sustainable fishing practices are crucial in mitigating the ecological and economic damage caused by this invasive species.
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The battle against the lionfish invasion is ongoing, but with innovative solutions and continued dedication, we can protect vital marine ecosystems and preserve the biodiversity of our oceans for future generations.

The sun rises over the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, casting golden hues on the ocean's surface. Small wooden fishing boats, packed with tourists, speed towards a pod of dolphins. Excited voices, camera shutters, and the splash of hurried snorkelers disturb the morning calm. This scene, played out daily, is a stark reminder of how human fascination with marine life often comes at a cost.
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Recent documentaries have shed light on the uncontrolled pressure that dolphin populations in Zanzibar endure due to mass tourism. Swimmers chase them, boats corner them, and respect for their natural behavior is often disregarded. It is easy to condemn such practices, to label them as reckless or damaging. But in a world where marine life is increasingly under threat, are these encounters always the worst alternative? If not for tourism, would these same dolphins face an even darker fate—hunted for food, captured for aquariums, or turned into aphrodisiac powders, as is the case in parts of Asia?

Selective Outrage: A Double Standard in Wildlife Reporting​
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This issue extends beyond Zanzibar. If a TV network chooses to expose the human impact on marine wildlife, shouldn’t it also hold a mirror to other problematic practices elsewhere? Madagascar, for example, has a booming whale shark tourism industry. While some operators respect the animals, others encourage behavior that disrupts their natural movements. In French Polynesia, divers routinely make contact with bottlenose dolphins in Rangiroa, yet these interactions rarely spark media outrage. The question then arises: why are some forms of wildlife tourism vilified while others are glamorized? And why does mainstream media choose to highlight some issues while remaining silent on others?

The Instagram Effect: When Nature Becomes a Trophy

Social media has fueled the desire for up-close, dramatic encounters with wildlife. For many, the goal is no longer the experience itself but the validation that comes with posting it online. Whether it's tourists chasing dolphins for the perfect selfie or divers pushing ethical boundaries for an award-winning shot, the ocean is often reduced to a backdrop for human ego. The truth is, no documentary will stop irresponsible tourists from doing whatever it takes for a viral moment.

A Photographer’s Reflection: Ethics in Marine Photography

​Watching these reports, I can't help but reflect on my own journey as an underwater photographer. Why do I take these images? For likes? For recognition? No. I capture the ocean’s beauty to share its wonders, to tell its story, and to remind people why it deserves protection. The joy for me is not in the instant gratification of an image but in the hours spent observing, waiting, and earning the trust of marine life.
In Mayotte, I have the privilege of stepping into the ocean at dawn, swimming out from the shore, and simply waiting. I don’t chase animals—they come to me. Whether it's dolphins, turtles, or sharks, every approach is deliberate, respectful, and based on an understanding of their behavior. Over time, I have even learned to mimic certain movements—a circular swim pattern to communicate with turtles, subtle fin movements to signal to dolphins that I am not a threat. These techniques take patience and commitment, something a rushed tourist encounter will never replicate.

The Race for the Perfect Shot: When Photography Becomes Exploitation​
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Beyond tourism, there is another conversation to be had—one about the pressure of wildlife photography competitions. In an industry that rewards the most striking, rare, and sensational images, photographers are sometimes tempted to cross ethical lines. Should an image of a dolphin staring directly into the lens be celebrated if it was only achieved by disturbing the animal? Should we admire a close-up of a whale shark if it was obtained by a diver who got too close? These are difficult questions, and perhaps ones best left for another article.

​Using Photography to Support Conservation Efforts
Photography has the power to go beyond simple aesthetic appeal and can play a vital role in conservation efforts. As photographers, we have the opportunity to make our work useful by collaborating with associations and scientists who are dedicated to protecting the natural world.
One powerful example is my friend Nils, who works with the Manta Trust to photograph manta rays for identification purposes. Each photo becomes a valuable data point, helping the organization track and catalogue manta populations based on their geographic location. This kind of collaboration ensures that our passion for underwater photography serves a greater purpose.
Instead of focusing solely on capturing the perfect shot to post on social media, we can choose to be more intentional and thoughtful about how our images are used. By connecting with conservation organizations and offering our skills for scientific documentation, we can make a meaningful difference. Let’s use our art to support research, raise awareness, and ultimately contribute to the preservation of marine life.
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The Story Behind a Whale Photo​

A few years ago, I was alone in the lagoon of Mayotte when I took a photo of a humpback whale. No one else was there—just me, the ocean, and this giant of the sea gliding peacefully through the crystal-clear waters. It was a rare moment, one of those encounters that stays with you forever.
Later, I sold that image through a stock photography agency. And sometime after, I found out that my photo—taken in Mayotte—had been used in a promotional booklet for whale-watching tourism... in Madagascar. The irony wasn’t lost on me.

This is the paradox of wildlife photography. You can capture an image with the utmost respect, yet once it’s out in the world, it can be repurposed, reshaped, and sometimes even used to promote practices that contradict your own ethics.
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That experience reinforced an important lesson: as photographers, we don’t just take pictures. We shape narratives. We influence perceptions. And that comes with responsibility.

The Responsibility of Wildlife Photographers and Conservationists

There’s another discussion to be had here—about the role of photography competitions and the increasing drive for more sensational images. But that’s a topic for another day.

For now, my message is this: respect nature. Leave your GoPro aside and simply enjoy the moment, not for the likes, but for yourself. The most valuable memories are the ones you carry in your soul, not the ones you post online.
If you truly want to make a difference, go beyond fleeting experiences. Commit yourself to real conservation. Make it your profession. Follow ethical guidelines. And if you want to expose human impact on wildlife, be thorough—tell the full story, not just the convenient parts.

Because in the end, the most powerful legacy we can leave is in the awe of future generations—the wonder in their voices when they say, “I want this to last. I want my children to see what I have seen.”
Otherwise, don’t pretend to be a conservationist. Be one.

What are Corals and Their Role in the Marine Ecosystem?

Corals are marine animals belonging to the class Cnidaria, closely related to jellyfish and sea anemones. They live primarily in warm, clear waters of the tropics, forming reefs that can stretch for hundreds of kilometers. Their role in the marine ecosystem is multifaceted. They serve as a refuge and breeding ground for a wide range of marine creatures, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Coral reefs also act as natural barriers, reducing the strength of waves and protecting shorelines from storms and erosion.
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Beyond their ecological role, corals contribute to marine biodiversity. Their ability to recycle nutrients and maintain ecological balance in marine environments is essential for the survival of many marine organisms. Coral reefs are, therefore, both centers of biodiversity and crucial environmental regulators for the stability of ocean ecosystems.

El Niño, Coral Bleaching, and the Climate Crisis

​However, these fragile structures are now threatened by both natural and human-induced factors, with the most alarming being the impact of ocean warming. One of the most devastating effects of warming is coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that live inside their tissues. These algae provide the majority of the coral's energy through photosynthesis. Without them, corals turn white, become weakened, and struggle to survive without external intervention.
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The El Niño phenomenon, which causes temporary ocean warming, exacerbates this issue. During these climatic events, water temperatures can rise significantly, causing intense thermal stress for corals. As a result, coral reefs can suffer severe damage, losing much of their biodiversity and impacting local populations that rely on the health of these ecosystems.

What Are Scientists Doing to Combat Coral Bleaching?

In the face of this crisis, scientists worldwide are working tirelessly to save coral reefs. Their approach combines laboratory research, field monitoring, and innovative strategies for reef restoration.

One promising solution is coral breeding in laboratories. Researchers have developed methods to cultivate heat-resistant corals. By crossbreeding different coral species or exposing larvae to higher temperatures, they hope to create corals that are more resilient and capable of surviving in warmer waters. These corals can then be transplanted into declining reefs as part of restoration programs.

Scientists also monitor reef conditions in real-time, using underwater sensors to measure water temperature and coral health. This data allows for rapid alerts to authorities and local communities, enabling protective measures, such as marine protected areas or activity restrictions, to be implemented.

On a global scale, coral protection and restoration initiatives are also supported by international organizations and governments, working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, plastic pollution, and overfishing—three major factors contributing to coral decline.
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While these efforts provide hope for restoration, the situation remains urgent. Coral reefs, these biodiversity treasures, continue to suffer under the combined effects of climate change and pollution. Scientific solutions, though promising, can only succeed if accompanied by collective action to combat climate change. Protecting corals has become a global challenge, a test for humanity's ability to safeguard the natural wonders that connect us to our planet.

Immersion in the Lagoon of Mayotte: Just Below the Surface

Mayotte, a pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a sanctuary where marine life thrives under crystalline light. This project could have taken a completely different turn. I was in contact with the BBC for a collaboration with Blue Planet, but things did not go as planned. The person who was supposed to provide scientific validation for our project took advantage of the situation to push their own project forward, ultimately leading to the cancellation of ours.

I had believed that the world of wildlife documentaries was driven by a shared love for nature, but reality is quite different: some are willing to do anything to take someone else's place. It was a disillusionment, but it did not stop me from pursuing my work with the same determination.
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For my first episode dedicated to the marine depths, I chose to explore this fragile and fascinating world that exists just below the surface, where sunlight dances with the water and reveals an ecosystem of incredible richness.

The Genesis of the Project​
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The idea for this short film was born from a desire to capture the raw beauty and harmony that reign in these preserved waters. Unlike deep dives that reveal mysterious abysses, I wanted to showcase what is accessible to everyone, just a few meters below the surface. This is where the spectacle begins, where coral reefs teem with life, and marine creatures move in a natural choreography.

Filming at the Rhythm of Nature

Creating this film required a patient and respectful approach. Working exclusively with natural light, I sought to capture every detail with optimal clarity. The sunlight filtered through the water provided vibrant colors and an almost surreal rendering, where the blue of the lagoon blends with the vivid hues of fish and corals.

From the moment I arrived in Mayotte, I had the idea of creating a 30-minute short film. It ultimately took more than four years to gather all the pieces of the puzzle and turn it into a full-fledged documentary. It is important to highlight the time required to bring such a project to life, as some people think that all it takes is to jump into the water to capture extraordinary images. In reality, one must traverse the lagoon extensively, listen to rumors about the presence of animals, go out, wait, and return empty-handed over and over again, until the perfect moment presents itself—or until the frustration of a missed opportunity sets in.

In this regard, the presence of Nils Bertrand from Seablue Safari was invaluable. He knows the lagoon and the behaviors of its marine inhabitants inside out, having observed them in Mayotte for over twenty years. His experience and deep understanding of the environment allowed us to execute exceptional approaches and capture rare, authentic moments.
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The main challenge was anticipating the movements of marine life to film unique moments. The curiosity of sea turtles, the grace of stingrays, and the frenzy of juvenile fish schools provided magical scenes that only prolonged immersion can truly capture.

A Visual and Auditory Narrative

Until now, I had always worked on short clips or projects lasting three to four minutes. This time, I had to find the right balance between images, music, voice-over, and silence. Creating a smooth and immersive narrative required not only a different approach but also having the necessary footage to perfectly construct the story's flow.

Additionally, this project demanded real teamwork. I collaborated with Mathilde Hangard for storytelling and with Nils for the scientific aspects. Nils, who values precision, significantly raised the level of rigor I had set for myself. His expertise brought an essential level of accuracy to the film's information and sequences.
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Ultimately, nearly a year was needed for editing and the final cut. Removing scenes, adding others, using certain necessary but subtle effects—it was meticulous work and an ambitious project that required both time and discipline to produce a film that remains faithful to the beauty and complexity of Mayotte's lagoon.

I was out at sea, off the lagoon of Mayotte, when we encountered a group of eight orcas hunting. Their prey: rays and tiger sharks. We watched in awe from the surface, observing their interactions, their precision, their intelligence. Then, my friend Nils invited me to get in the water.

I’m used to diving with sharks, but getting in the water with orcas for the first time was a different story. As soon as I submerged, I saw these incredible mammals with a tiger shark in their jaws. Normally, a tiger shark seems massive to me, but in their grip, it looked like a mere puppet, a toy. After the initial shock, realizing that they had no interest in me, I was finally able to take a few photos and record some footage just beneath the surface.

When you climb back onto the boat after such an experience, two things become crystal clear:

1. Humans are incredibly small in the grand scale of nature.
2. These animals have no place in marine parks.

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So, let’s talk about orcas.

Powerful and Intelligent Predators

Orcas (Orcinus orca), often called the "wolves of the sea," are among the most intelligent and efficient predators in the ocean. Their adaptability and strategic hunting techniques make them apex predators, capable of capturing a wide variety of prey, from fish and seals to even sharks.

Sophisticated Hunting Techniques​
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Each population of orcas develops its own hunting strategies, passed down through generations. Antarctic orcas create waves to knock seals off ice floes, while those in Mayotte hunt tiger sharks and rays. They are even known to flip sharks onto their backs, inducing a state of paralysis called "tonic immobility"—a highly effective technique.

Unmatched Intelligence and Unique Culture
Orcas have one of the most developed brains in the animal kingdom. They use distinct vocal dialects within each pod, follow a strong matriarchal structure, and display behaviors that resemble cultural traditions. Their ability to learn and imitate is extraordinary, strengthening bonds between pod members and shaping their way of life.
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Hunting Strategies
Orcas are apex predators with spectacular hunting techniques adapted to their prey and environment. In the Indian Ocean, they primarily feed on tuna, sharks, dolphins, and occasionally even whales.

One of the most impressive behaviors observed is their ability to hunt sharks, including tiger sharks and even great whites. Orcas are known for their technique of flipping sharks onto their backs, inducing a state of catatonia that leaves them completely vulnerable.
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Other observations show that they hunt in coordination, using waves to knock seals off ice floes or trapping schools of fish by tightening their movements. Some populations specializing in hunting marine mammals have even been seen separating young humpback whales from their mothers, employing harassment tactics over several hours.

Communication and Social Intelligence
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Orcas are among the most intelligent marine animals. They use a complex language consisting of whistles, clicks, and sounds specific to each group. In the Indian Ocean, vocal differences have been recorded between populations, suggesting the existence of distinct dialects depending on the region.

Their social structure is based on family groups called pods, led by an experienced matriarch who passes down knowledge to younger generations. This knowledge includes hunting techniques, migration routes, and essential social behaviors for survival.

Threats

Despite their status as apex predators, Indian Ocean orcas are not immune to human threats. Overfishing reduces their access to prey, while plastic pollution and chemical contaminants accumulate in their bodies through the food chain. Collisions with ships and noise pollution from maritime traffic also affect their communication and way of life.
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Protecting these magnificent creatures requires better fishing regulations, habitat preservation, and increased efforts to reduce marine pollution.

The Harsh Reality of Captive Orcas​
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While orcas are mesmerizing in the wild, their fate in captivity is heartbreaking. These creatures, accustomed to traveling vast distances each day, find themselves confined to small tanks, deprived of their natural behaviors and complex social structures. The stress and boredom often lead to abnormal or even aggressive behaviors. Institutions like SeaWorld have long exploited these cetaceans for entertainment, but public awareness—especially after documentaries like Blackfish—has sparked a movement against keeping orcas in captivity.

​Orcas: A Symbol of Ocean Freedom

Encountering orcas in the wild is an experience that stays with you forever. These creatures embody the raw power and mystery of the ocean. But they also serve as a reminder of how fragile marine ecosystems are—and how it is our responsibility to protect them.