Marine Biologist Attacked by Galapagos Shark During Cocos Island Research

Mexican marine biologist Dr. Mauricio Hoyos sustained significant injuries after being bitten by a Galapagos shark while conducting research dives near Cocos Island, Costa Rica. The incident occurred on a Saturday during a scientific expedition led by Dr. Hoyos, a researcher with decades of dedication to studying and conserving apex predators. The encounter took place at a depth of approximately 39 meters while the biologist was affixing a tracking tag to the animal.

The shark involved was identified as a Galapagos shark, Carcharhinus galapagensis, estimated to measure between 3 and 3.5 meters in length. Dr. Hoyos reported that the animal briefly clamped down on his head and face before immediately releasing him. Following the bite, the 48-year-old researcher suffered 27 lacerations across his face and scalp. He attributed the action to a defensive response by the wild animal during the tagging procedure.

Survival and subsequent medical care required a complex logistical operation. Local personnel, including Cocos Island Park rangers and Fire Department paramedics, provided initial treatment. Due to the lack of a helipad on Cocos Island, Dr. Hoyos faced a challenging transfer involving a boat journey of approximately 340 to 350 miles to the mainland, followed by transport to Clínica Bíblica Hospital in San José. The total transfer process reportedly spanned between 36 and 42 hours, where he was admitted in stable condition and required surgery, including potential reconstructive procedures for his jaw.

At the time of the incident, Dr. Hoyos was leading an expedition under the banner of the One Ocean Worldwide Coalition, an international partnership that includes Fins Attached Marine Research and Conservation, For the Oceans Foundation, Reserva Tortuga, and the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation. Coincidentally, the attack occurred on the same day Dr. Hoyos was scheduled to receive the Rob Stewart Ocean Conservationist of the Year Award, recognizing his career contributions.

Cocos Island, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, is globally recognized as a critical refuge for pelagic species, hosting large gatherings of scalloped hammerhead sharks. Research in this area, often involving tagging operations, is essential for understanding the migration patterns of species like hammerheads, Galapagos sharks, tiger sharks, and whale sharks across the region, aiming to establish transboundary conservation strategies between Cocos, the Galápagos Islands, and Malpelo Island.

Following his recovery, Dr. Hoyos has continued his advocacy work, focusing on challenging the popular perception of sharks as indiscriminate predators. His mission centers on promoting a deeper understanding of their natural behaviors and vital ecological roles, as apex predators are integral to maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Scientific data gathered from tagging projects remains crucial for supporting marine protection zones against threats like illegal fishing, particularly as the IUCN lists a quarter of all shark and ray species as endangered.