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Scientists Release 200-Gallons Synthetic Whale Blood to Lure Great White Shark Queen

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Author Linnea H, BSc Sociology

Scientists Release 200-Gallons Synthetic Blood from Whale Decoy to Lure the Queen Boss of Great White Sharks
"14-foot Great White Attacks Giant Whale Decoy" Via Discovery, youtube.

In a groundbreaking experiment, researchers in New Zealand released 200 gallons of synthetic blood into the ocean to attract a great white shark. This experiment, which was part of Shark Week, aimed to test the “Queen Boss Theory.” The theory suggests that genetically distinct clans of great white sharks form around one reproductive superstar female.

A Whale Carcass Replica

Scientists Release 200-Gallons Synthetic Blood from Whale Decoy to Lure the Queen Boss of Great White Sharks
From inside the carcass decoy. “14-foot Great White Attacks Giant Whale Decoy” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: Discovery

To conduct their research, scientists created a decoy resembling a whale carcass. This decoy served as a research platform, releasing synthetic blood to attract great white sharks.

The Initial Arrival: Male Sharks

Scientists Release 200-Gallons Synthetic Blood from Whale Decoy to Lure the Queen Boss of Great White Sharks
“14-foot Great White Attacks Giant Whale Decoy” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: Discovery

A male shark arrived at the scene, ready to impress the female queen shark. He measured around 13 feet in length and bore numerous marks.

A 14-Foot Female Shark

Scientists Release 200-Gallons Synthetic Blood from Whale Decoy to Lure the Queen Boss of Great White Sharks
The 14-foot female great white shark. “14-foot Great White Attacks Giant Whale Decoy” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: Discovery

The highlight of the experiment was the arrival of a massive 14-foot female shark. This female, expected to be the “queen,” exhibited aggressive behavior by attacking the decoy whale’s tail.

Testing the Queen Boss Theory

Great White Shark. Image via Depositphotos

The purpose of this experiment was to test the Queen Boss Theory, which posits that great white shark clans revolve around a dominant reproductive female. The 14-foot female shark’s behavior provided valuable insights into this theory.

Synthetic Blood

Great white shark, Carcharodon carcharias, with open mouth. False Bay, South Africa, Atlantic Ocean. Image via depositphotos.

The use of synthetic blood in this experiment highlights the researchers’ commitment to ethical practices. This approach ensures that the study does not harm real marine animals.

Understanding Shark Clans

Hunting of a Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias). South Africa. Image via Depositphotos

By observing the interactions between male and female sharks, scientists aim to gain a deeper understanding of how shark clans are formed and maintained, particularly regarding the Queen Boss Theory. Dominant female sharks play in the genetic diversity and survival of shark populations, and scientist aim to further understand the extent of this. The experiment opens up new avenues for future research, including further studies on shark social structures and reproductive behaviors.

A Successful Experiment

Great white shark, Carcharodon carcharias. Image via Depositphotos

The experiment successfully attracted a massive female great white shark, providing valuable data to test the Queen Boss Theory. However, the question if this female was the true Queen remains unanswered.

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