The ocean's oldest predators survive in a world of constant upheaval

Nature · Published 30 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: New Zealand’s coastline sits atop one of the most geologically active regions on Earth. Beneath these violent, shifting waters, ancient creatures have evolved to endure extreme pressure and darkness. From sharks that haven't changed in millions of years to deep-sea giants, this is a masterclass in evolutionary resilience.

New Zealand’s marine environment is defined by its position between two powerful geological plates. This creates a landscape of constant transformation, where earthquakes and landslides can reshape the seabed in seconds. For instance, a major earthquake on the Kaikōura coastline once caused the seabed to rise by several metres, instantly burying seal colonies and altering habitats. These frequent underwater upheavals mean that marine life must be adapted to a world of permanent instability.

The region hosts unique ecological niches created by these geological forces. Off the coast of Kaikōura, a massive underwater canyon descends thousands of metres, attracting sperm whales—the planet's largest toothed predators. These whales use echolocation to hunt deep-sea squid at extreme depths, remaining submerged for over an hour at a time. In contrast, Milford Sound features a strange phenomenon where tannins from rainforest rainfall create a dark layer of fresh water that blocks sunlight, allowing deep-sea species to inhabit areas unusually close to the surface.

The broadnose sevengill shark is an example of a 'living fossil' inhabiting these seas. Possessing seven gill slits rather than five, this hunter has stayed mostly the same throughout millions of years. Alongside it, primitive creatures like hagfish and rattail fish survive in unexplored depths by enduring high pressure and limited food. While prehistoric giants like the megalodon and plesiosaur are extinct, their disappearance paved the way for modern marine titans, including orcas and contemporary whale species.

Scientific exploration in these areas reveals a complex history of survival. By combining fossil evidence with remote camera footage, researchers can see how life persists despite the violent nature of the sea. The documentary highlights that New Zealand's oceans are not just a static habitat but a dynamic laboratory where evolution is constantly responding to some of the most dramatic geological changes on Earth.

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