FIU researcher recuperating from shark bite

FIU researcher Kirk Gastrich is recuperating after a close encounter with a 6-foot lemon shark Wednesday, April 28.

Gastrich was bitten around his elbow by a shark he was measuring during a routine research trip. Gastrich, along with a team of researchers, were working near the mouth of Shark River in the Everglades when the incident occurred. The team responded quickly to treat the wound and call for emergency medical assistance. Gastrich was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital and treated. Doctors said the marine scientist’s arm would fully recover. He is expected to be released from the hospital this weekend.

Kirk Gastrich

“Kirk has tagged and measured hundreds of sharks in his career,” said Michael Heithaus, executive director of the School of Environment and Society (SEAS). “Sharks are not animals we should be overly afraid of, but as with any wild animal, they can be unpredictable. With Kirk’s experience and the professionalism of our research team, the situation was handled exactly as we’re trained to do.”

Gastrich has worked as a marine scientist at FIU since 2008. He is part of a larger research team in SEAS, which is studying the ecological importance of sharks. The team is examining shark populations on two different sides of the globe — locally, where the numbers have significantly diminished, and in Western Australia, where the shark populations remain at normal, healthy levels.

“Sharks are important parts of coastal ecosystems, but they are threatened by overfishing and habitat modifications,” Heithaus said. “Our work on understanding the important aspects of their habitats and their ecological roles is critical for protecting the sharks and ensuring that they continue to be a part of naturally functioning ecosystems.”

To learn more about FIU’s shark research programs, click here.