Shark Island

Anticipation is building on the far-flung island of Fuvahmulah in the Maldives where the imminent arrival in its waters of the international Nekton science mission could unlock the mystery of why it has become home to one of the worlds largest, and seemingly healthiest, tiger shark populations.

The sharks – which can grow to several metres in length – are now a growing tourist attraction for diving enthusiasts, even if less popular with local fishermen who compete for the tuna the giant predators eat.

Scientists on Nekton Mission, who hail from the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, South Africa and the UK, will use submersibles and other cutting-edge technology to map, film and sample the waters off the coast of Fuvamulah down to 1000 metres. They aim to provide answers to a range of unanswered questions about the shark habitat. If these apex predators are in good health it could bode well for the health of the rest of the marine environment.

Dive master, Hamna Hussain – a former national volleyball player, turned shark guide – has lots of questions for Nekton.