by InTrieste
A surprising visitor has been drawing attention along the Rive of Trieste since early this morning: a female blue shark, or Prionace glauca, has been spotted gliding through the shallows, prompting a rapid response from marine researchers at the Miramare Marine Protected Area.
This afternoon, a scientific team from the reserve conducted an on-site inspection in the Sacchetta area, a small harbor just steps from the city’s historic waterfront. Using a high-resolution 3D underwater camera deployed directly from the shoreline, the researchers captured striking footage of the elusive predator — a species increasingly threatened by overfishing and habitat degradation, and one that experts say deserves both closer scientific study and stronger protection.
“Seeing a blue shark this close to shore is highly unusual,” said one marine biologist involved in the observation. “The footage offers a rare and powerful glimpse of a species that is both mysterious and in urgent need of conservation.”
Preliminary surface assessments and the new underwater video suggest the animal is in relatively good health. While researchers noted the presence of scars on one flank — likely the result of a mating-related interaction, which is not uncommon in this species — the shark did not display any immediate signs of distress.
Still, its unusual proximity to shore raises concerns. The researchers caution that the shark may be disoriented and struggling to find its way back to deeper waters. As a precaution, the team will continue to monitor the animal closely in the coming hours and days.
In the meantime, authorities urge the public to respect the shark’s space. “Please do not approach, touch, or attempt to feed the animal,” read a statement from the marine reserve. “This is a crucial moment for both the shark and the science working to protect her.”
The sighting has already sparked curiosity and awe among Triestini and tourists alike, a reminder that even in a bustling port city, nature can still make a dramatic appearance.
A female blue shark was spotted swimming near Trieste’s waterfront on Tuesday, May 13. Marine biologists from the Miramare Reserve captured stunning 3D underwater footage and confirmed the animal is in good condition, despite some scars likely from mating. While the shark may be disoriented, experts are monitoring it closely and urge the public not to approach, touch, or feed it.
video courtesy Marine biologists from the Miramare Reserve
