Beach Terror As Shark Thrashes Around Near Shore

Story By: Jonathan MaciasSub EditorJoseph GolderAgency: Central European News 

Video Credit: CEN

This is the moment a shark thrashes around in shallow water close to the shore and scares a group of beachgoers.

The incident was filmed at Barrilete Beach in the coastal town of Monte Hermoso in the eastern Argentine province of Buenos Aires, and the footage was later shared on social media.

In the clip, a shark is seen swimming close to the shore as onlookers stand just a few feet away.

Picture Credit: CEN

Some swimmers are heard shouting: “It is a shark!”

According to local media, three sharks were spotted close to the beach, but no attacks were reported.

The local authorities said the trio were probably sand tiger sharks (Carcharias taurus) which can appear menacing due to their sharp teeth and swift movements, although it is rare that they attack humans.

Monte Hermoso tourism secretary Franco Gentilli told local media: “It’s a very rare situation, but they are docile sharks that do not attack humans. Local residents and families need to calm down.

Picture Credit: CEN

“They probably approached the shore looking for mullet fish. Beachgoers should take precautions and not disturb or approach them. You should inform a lifeguard right away.”

Sand tiger sharks live in the waters around Japan, Australia, South Africa, the Mediterranean and the eastern coasts of North and South America where they can be seen swimming in reefs and sandy shorelines.

According to the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the species is considered ‘vulnerable’.

In the western north Pacific, India and Pakistan, the species is used for its fins and liver oil, according to reports.

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