An 18-year-old surfer was bitten by a shark last Friday while surfing at New Smyrna Beach, Florida, known as the “shark bite capital of the world,” according to the beach safety authorities of Volusia County.
According to the news portal , the incident occurred around noon, just a few kilometers south of the New Smyrna Beach jetty, near the Sapphire Road area.
The young man suffered a bite on his foot and was taken to a medical center with injuries that were not life-threatening, reported Tamra Malphurs, the beach safety director.
This would be the fourth shark attack recorded in Volusia County so far in 2025.
The most recent incident before this occurred over the Fourth of July weekend, when a 40-year-old surfer was bitten on the right arm in the same area.
Although the species responsible for the attack has not been confirmed, experts from the Florida Museum of Natural History explain that blacktip sharks are the most common in this type of incident in the region.
Gavin Naylor, director of the Florida Shark Research Program, noted that the geographical and ecological conditions of the area—such as the sandbar structure and the mouth of the Ponce de León Inlet—create an ideal surf break, but also attract schools of fish that serve as food for the sharks.
This combination creates an environment prone to accidental bites, emphasized the cited source.
"Water rich in nutrients, reduced visibility, and the presence of baitfish increase the risk of a shark mistaking a surfer's foot or hand for a fish," Naylor explained to The News-Journal.
According to the International Shark Attack File, Volusia County tops the list of bites in Florida, with 359 recorded incidents, far ahead of Brevard County, which has 159.
Currently, dredging is taking place in the Ponce de León Inlet area, which could affect the number of attacks, although Naylor warns that there is still not enough data to establish a direct relationship.
"The sample is small and the statistical noise is very high," he stated.
For now, authorities recommend that surfers take extra precautions, avoid murky water, and not surf alone, especially in areas where recent incidents have been reported.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shark Attacks in Florida
Why is New Smyrna Beach known as the "shark bite capital of the world"?
New Smyrna Beach has a high number of shark bites each year due to its unique geographical and ecological conditions. The structure of the sandbar and the mouth of the Ponce de León Inlet attract schools of fish, which increases the presence of sharks searching for food.
What safety measures should surfers take at New Smyrna Beach?
Authorities recommend that surfers exercise extreme caution, avoid murky water, and do not surf alone, especially in areas where recent incidents have been reported. These measures can help reduce the risk of shark attacks.
What are the most common shark species involved in attacks in Florida?
Blacktip sharks are the most common in bite incidents in the region, especially in places like New Smyrna Beach. These sharks often confuse human limbs with their natural prey due to the reduced visibility of the water.
How can swimmers reduce the risk of shark bites in Florida?
To reduce the risk of bites, swimmers should avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, when sharks are most active, and refrain from wearing shiny or brightly colored objects that may attract sharks. It is also advisable to swim in groups and follow local safety guidelines.
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