Not just Shark
Pictures: Elasmodiver contains photos of sharks, skates, rays, and
chimaera's from around the world. It began as a simple web based
field guide to help divers find the best places to encounter
different species of sharks and rays but it has slowly evolved into
a much larger project containing information on all aspects of shark
diving and photography. There are now more than a thousand shark
pictures and sections on shark evolution, biology, and
conservation. There is a large library of reviewed shark books, a
constantly outdated shark taxonomy page, a monster list of shark
links, and deeper in the site there are numerous articles and
stories about shark encounters. Elasmodiver is now so difficult to
check for updates, that new information and pictures are listed on
an Elasmodiver Updates Page that can be accessed here:
If you're looking for a
broader range of marine life pictures the following links represent
a new area that contains pictures on other marine organisms and on
marine habitats. This expansion of Elasmodiver is in its first
stages but will eventually include pages on everything from sea
stars to nudibranchs. Creating this portal will take time and for
now it consists of a token offering of fish pictures. Please return
regularly to enjoy the progress.
SHARK DIVING HOTSPOTS -
LOS GIGANTES, TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS
Encounter:
Where to start! The ray feed at Los Gigantes attracts many Common Stingrays
(Dasyatis pastinaca) and Common
Eagle Rays (Myliobatis aquila). A few enormous Roughtail Stingrays (Dasyatis
centroura) are also regular participants and many other ray species can make
an appearance. Occasional visitors include round stingrays (Dasyatis
grabata) and Common Angel Sharks (Squatina squatina). Marbled
Torpedo Rays (Torpedo marmorata) and Spiny Butterfly Rays (Gymnura
altavela) are also found in the area.
The feed takes place once or twice a
week in 60ft of water in the shadow of the enormous Los Gigantes cliffs. A
dive master takes down a full barrel of fish scraps and is marauded by the
closest rays. More rays arrive as the scent spreads.
Many of the animals are regular
visitors that are very used to human contact. These rays can be handfed by
any divers wishing to grab a handful of fish and join in the fun.
Photographic opportunities abound but
as the feed continues, the circling of the rays close to the sand and the
kicking of the divers drives visibility down. The sand is heavy and quickly
settles but the activity during the feed keeps the area in a perpetual fog.
Operators:
The English speaking Los Gigantes Dive Centre located in the harbour of the
small town of Los Gigantes is the only operator that organizes feeds. The owner / manager
Neville has been working with the rays since 1996. He takes a responsible
attitude towards the interaction to ensure the welfare of the rays and divers
alike.
Accommodation:
There are a number of nice hotels in Los Gigantes but the most convenient option
is adjacent to the dive shop. Neville can arrange accommodation for divers
wishing to dedicate a few days to diving the spectacular sites in the area.
Directions:
Los Gigantes is on the west coast of Tenerife. it is a two hour bus ride from
the capital. Divers should be aware that the journey from the city involves a
climb to a high altitude which should not be attempted after diving.
