What is Uristen Shark? People Look For Answers After Seeing Real Life Encounter in Maldives [WATCH]

A recent post on TikTok showing an alleged shark encounter in Maldives became an instant hit. People were seeking answers about the so-called 'Uristen' shark in the video. But what exactly does 'Uristen shark' mean? The new term became viral, garnering millions of views on TikTok.

In the short clip, a panicked woman is seen swimming away from an unseen creature. Some of the curious netizens asked if it was an invisible shark, because it was not noticeable in the video. They also asked about the meaning of 'Uristen shark' after seeing the video, in relation to the video's caption.

There's no actual 'Uristen shark.' In fact, it's simply a misunderstanding. Instead, when translated to English, the video's caption means "OMG, shark." Uristen is a word for 'Oh, my God." The term is used for a shocking situation, such as a shark encounter. 

   @user3869916362684 Uristen #maldiv #maldiv #omg #shark #sea #swim ♬ original sound - user3869916362684 - tshirts.style    

Maldives has been a must-travel tourist area, famous for its beautiful white sand beaches. The country is also known for its rich biodiversity and coral reefs.

Common sharks found in Maldives

(Photo : by Carl Court/Getty Images)
Blacktip reef shark swims. 'Uristen Shark' became viral after a Tiktok video showed a possible shark encounter in the Maldives. Uristen Shark means OMG (Oh, My God) Shark. Here are the common sharks in the Maldives.

In Maldives, the country is no stranger to sharks. There are species of sharks that roam around the oceans and coastal areas. In addition, there are about 26 species of sharks found in the Maldives. People can mostly spot whale sharks near the South Ari Toll, while tiger sharks in Fuvahmulah Atoll. 

The cases of shark attacks in Maldives are very rare. In April 2023, a news report showed a shark attack video. A shark bit a female scuba-diver wile on the Aavu Atoll. The bite left a mark on the victim's body.

Here are some of the common sharks in the oceans of Maldives.

Hammerhead sharks

People can easily find hammerhead sharks with their hammer-looking heads. They are locally known as kaaligandu miyaru. The said shark can weigh up to 1000 pounds.

Reports showed that about ten different species of hammerhead sharks can be found in the world's oceans.

The Blacktip Reef Shark

One of the known sharks in the Maldives is the blacktip reef shark. There is also the whitetip reef shark. From the color itself, beachgoers can recognize the said sharks.

Whale sharks

Whale sharks also appear in the Maldives, especially in Baa Atoll and South Ari Atoll. Whale sharks prefer warm waters, and they usually visit ocean waters in the Maldives.

In the Shark Insider report, people can also find different species of sharks:

•  Zebra Shark
• Tiger Shark
• Silvertip Shark
• Silky Shark
• Lemon Shark
• Nurse Shark

Also Read: Unique Strawberry Feather Star: New Aquatic Species Has 20 Arms Discovered in Antarctica 

How to stay safe from sharks in Maldives

While the record of shark attacks is very low in the Maldives, that beachgoers should stay updated with the latest reports, especially in areas where sharks are usually spotted.

Swimming in designated or supervised areas is essential to prevent possible shark attacks and ensure safety with lifeguards in the area.

Related Article: New Shark Species Named Painted Hornshark After Discovering in Australia's Waters

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