With the start of the full moon this Saturday (26th), science is focusing on a real marine risk, such as shark attacks, rather than myths like werewolves.
A global study conducted by researchers from Louisiana State University (LSU) in the United States, and published in 2021 in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science, analyzed data accumulated over 55 years from the International Shark Attack File. The investigation demonstrated a clear trend: records of incidents involving swimmers and surfers tend to increase during periods of higher lunar luminosity and decrease when the night is darker.
Experts have not yet defined the exact cause of this correlation, since most attacks occur during the day, which makes nighttime light insufficient to explain the phenomenon. The predominant theory suggests that variations caused by the satellite's gravitational force on currents and tides may affect animal behavior.
However, an international review published in 2025 in the journal Global Ecology and Conservation indicated that this influence varies depending on the location. For example, in California, USA, researchers did not identify a clear connection between lunar phases and bites, concluding that the overall picture depends on regional elements, such as water visibility, temperature, and the number of people on the beach. The scientific consensus is that the statistical correlation is relevant, but it does not prove a cause-and-effect relationship.
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Nationally, Pernambuco is highlighted as the area of greatest concern regarding risks on the coast. Since monitoring began by the State Committee for Monitoring Shark Incidents (CEMIT) in 1992, the state has registered 77 official occurrences. The highest concentration of these cases occurs in the Metropolitan Region of Recife, specifically in beaches such as Boa Viagem and Piedade.
In addition to the volume of records, the mortality rate in the state remains around 30%, a figure considered high when compared to global standards. Although the Pernambuco coast has not registered new attacks since March 2023, the alert remains active. Local authorities continue to implement preventive measures, such as reinforcing signage on the waterfront, changing warning signs, and frequently advising on areas where swimming and surfing are prohibited.
Therefore, it is recommended to exercise extra caution when visiting or residing on the coast, especially during the first week of spring, in areas historically known for a high incidence of attacks, such as the Pernambuco coast. While science studies the intricate influence of the Moon on animal behavior, for those in the water, this represents an important warning sign.