ORF-E
English
1 x 52 min

One of Earth’s most extraordinary marine highways lies at the southernmost tip of Africa, where the warm Agulhas and frigid Benguela currents collide. The interaction of these powerful oceanic forces creates an underwater network, forming an area known as “Apex Alley”, which is home to some of the world’s most diverse shark species. This documentary follows sharks as they navigate the ancient currents from the tropical spawning grounds of Mozambique to the kelp forests of Cape Town. Bull sharks emerge as master navigators, capable of seamlessly transitioning between saltwater and freshwater environments. Their remarkable journeys reveal unprecedented migration patterns: one female travelled an astonishing 6,500 kilometres from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, challenging existing scientific understanding of shark behaviour. The convergence zone off the coast of Mozambique is a vital breeding ground, attracting blacktip, tiger and scalloped hammerhead sharks during the seasonal fish spawning events. These currents not only transport nutrients, but also create biological corridors that have sustained marine life for millions of years. Yet this underwater paradise is under threat. Shark populations have been decimated by over 70% since 1970 due to overfishing, while climate change is altering current patterns and water temperatures. Great white sharks have virtually disappeared from their traditional waters off the Cape. Using cutting-edge acoustic tagging technology and dedicated conservation efforts, researchers are striving to gain a better understanding of these primordial predators before it’s too late. Apex Alley reveals the inextricable link between ocean currents and sharks, showcasing the complex ecosystem where ancient mariners continue their eternal dance through Africa’s marine highways.