Apex predators play a crucial role in ecosystem stability by regulating populations and influencing behaviors across their habitats. Among them, tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) are notable for their wide-ranging impacts on marine ecosystems. This paper examines the ecological implications of tiger shark distribution and migration patterns, particularly in the context of climate change. As ocean temperatures rise, tiger sharks are expected to expand their ranges, potentially altering trophic interactions and ecosystem dynamics. Understanding the drivers behind these migrations—whether driven by prey availability or temperature preferences—will be essential for predicting future shifts in their distribution.
Climate change exacerbates these dynamics by influencing ocean temperatures and currents, leading to phenomena such as tropicalization and altering traditional prey distributions. Such changes not only affect tiger sharks but also ripple through marine food webs, affecting biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Additionally, urbanization along coastlines introduces new stressors for tiger sharks, impacting their physiological health and increasing human-wildlife interactions.
Conservation strategies must adapt to these evolving challenges. Protecting critical prey species and establishing marine protected areas tailored to tiger shark habitats are proposed as proactive measures. Enhanced understanding of tiger shark migration behaviors through advanced tracking and modeling will aid in developing effective management and conservation strategies.
By addressing these factors comprehensively, this research aims to contribute to the conservation of tiger sharks and the broader marine ecosystems they inhabit in the face of ongoing environmental change.