What if I told you about a marine spectacle so grand it’s called the Greatest Shoal On Earth? Right here in Durban, we celebrate this natural wonder. It is the annual sardine run.
This isn’t just any shoal. The Greatest Shoal On Earth refers to the breathtaking migration of South African sardines. Almost every May and June, hundreds of millions of these fish embark on an epic journey. They travel 1500 kilometers up the South African coast. Their destination is the nutrient-rich shores of KwaZulu-Natal Province.
The sardines form shimmering shoals. They are more than 7 kilometers long. They are 1.5 kilometers wide. And they extend 30 meters deep. These congregations are so massive they can be seen from the air.
Scientists estimate that the sardine run rivals East Africa’s great wildebeest migration. That should give you an idea of the scale. It is a true biomass migration.
Why do they do it? The mystery remains. Each year the shiny fish journey from the Cape’s cold waters. They head to KwaZulu-Natal’s warmer tides. As they convene close to the coast the shoreline turns silver.
This incredible event attracts many predators. Dolphins lead the charge. Thousands gather to feast on the plentiful fish. They herd their prey into tightly packed bait balls. The dolphins drive the fish toward the surface. It makes them easier to catch.
Other predators take advantage of the simple meal. Sharks arrive. Bronze Whaler Dusky and Blacktip sharks follow. Marine mammals join in. Cape Fur seals Humpback and Minke whales appear. Thousands of dolphins dive snap and feed. Shad Garrick and Geelbek also join. Birds plummet from the sky. Cape gannets cormorants terns and gulls dive-bomb the coast.
The Greatest Shoal On Earth doesn’t happen every year. Scientists note that ocean temperatures must drop below 21 degrees Celsius. If not the sardines stay put.
The sardine run has significant economic importance. It is a prime opportunity for ecotourism. Commercial fishing operations also benefit. The activities generate millions in revenue for the region.
The oldest known record of the run is from 1853. It was mentioned in the Natal Mercury newspaper. Documentaries and media also feature the run.
The 2023 run was estimated as the biggest on observed records to date.
Whether from land boat or underwater the sardine run is worth experiencing.
So next time you think of Durban remember the Greatest Shoal On Earth. It is a reminder of the incredible power of nature.