Sleeper sharks (Somniosus pacificus) are large, deep-sea sharks that are found in the North Pacific Ocean. They are known to feed on a variety of prey, including fish, seals, and sea lions. Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) are a species of sea lion that is protected under the Endangered Species Act. They are found in the North Pacific Ocean and are declining in population due to a number of factors, including habitat loss, hunting, and disease.
There is some evidence to suggest that sleeper sharks may be preying on Steller sea lions. In 2015, a study published in the journal "Marine Mammal Science" found that sleeper sharks were the most likely predators of Steller sea lions that were found dead in the Gulf of Alaska. The study found that sleeper sharks were responsible for 10% of Steller sea lion deaths, while killer whales were responsible for 80%.
Another study, published in the journal "PLoS ONE" in 2016, found that sleeper sharks were responsible for 15% of Steller sea lion deaths in the Bering Sea. The study also found that sleeper sharks were more likely to prey on Steller sea lions that were in poor condition.
The evidence suggests that sleeper sharks may be a significant predator of Steller sea lions. However, more research is needed to determine the full extent of the impact that sleeper sharks are having on Steller sea lion populations.
Additional factors that may be contributing to the decline of Steller sea lions:
* Habitat loss: Steller sea lions rely on ice floes for breeding and resting. The loss of sea ice due to climate change is reducing the amount of habitat available for Steller sea lions.
* Hunting: Steller sea lions were once hunted for their fur and oil. Although hunting is now prohibited in the United States and Canada, it is still a threat in other parts of the world.
* Disease: Steller sea lions are susceptible to a number of diseases, including canine distemper and Aleutian mink disease. These diseases can cause mass mortalities and reduce the overall health of Steller sea lion populations.
The decline of Steller sea lions is a complex issue that is caused by a number of factors. Sleeper sharks may be one of the factors contributing to the decline, but more research is needed to determine the full extent of their impact.
