First Individual-Based Model of Basking Sharks Reveals Complex Social and Environmental Drivers of Behavior

Scientists have developed the first individual-based model (IBM) of basking shark behavior, published in Individual-Based Ecology. The model simulates how these massive filter-feeding sharks respond to social cues and environmental conditions, offering new insights into their movement patterns and group dynamics. Basking sharks, the second-largest fish in the ocean, are often seen swimming nose-to-tail or in large aggregations, but the reasons behind these behaviors have long puzzled researchers. The IBM replicates observed behaviors by integrating factors such as food availability, water temperature, and social interactions, showing that sharks adjust their swimming paths based on both local prey density and the presence of nearby conspecifics. This matters because basking sharks are classified as endangered in the North Atlantic, and understanding their behavioral drivers is crucial for effective conservation and marine spatial planning. The model's ability to reproduce complex patterns suggests that social behavior may play a more significant role than previously thought, potentially influencing migration routes and habitat use. The study provides a powerful tool for predicting how basking sharks might respond to changing ocean conditions, including climate-driven shifts in plankton distribution. As human activities such as fishing and shipping increase, such models can help identify critical habitats and reduce bycatch risks. The authors hope the IBM will be extended to other large marine species to improve ecosystem-based management. Ultimately, this work highlights the importance of combining individual-level variability with environmental data to forecast wildlife responses in a rapidly changing ocean.