Sharks and other Big Stuff

The Malpelo Fauna and Flora Marine Sanctuary, a marine park that includes Malpelo Island, is the largest no-fishing zone in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean. The stars here are without a doubt the hammerheads, but the waters surrounding the islands are a “reservoir” for many different species of sharks. The schools of sharks can number as much as 300 individuals.
There are also large aggregations of silky sharks that number as much as 1,000 individuals. The island is also one of the few regions on Earth where the short-nosed ragged-toothed shark can be seen. Other species of sharks found here include Galapagos, whale, sand tiger, blacktip, and whitetip sharks, among others.
Dolphins, manta rays, billfish, and tunas are also residents of the area. Even larger animals such as humpback and blue whales make an appearance.

The Smaller Fish

The waters around Malpelo are teeming with life of all sizes. About 394 species of fish, 340 species of mollusks, 17 species of marine mammals, and 7 species of marine reptiles have been recorded here. The free-swimming moray eels put on quite a show and divers can also set their eyes on what some call the ugliest fish in the world – the notorious red-lipped batfish. Goatfish, grunts, jacks, Moorish idols, damselfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, and creole fish can also be seen at Malpelo.