It seems like sharks just can't get enough of the limelight.
Near Portland, Australia a rare 6.3-meter-long basking shark was accidentally caught by a fishing trawler, according to CNN.
Unlike other sharks that have received coverage in the news recently, the feeder sharks eat plankton. Second in size only to the whale shark, the basking shark got its name due to its slow-moving nature and preference for warmer waters.
This is a monumental find because it is only the third time a shark like this has been seen in the region in more than 160 years, according to Museum Victoria.
A major reason why these sharks are so rare in the region is because of the multi-million dollar shark fin trade. They are currently protected in some territorial waters under various EU, UK and international laws. However, illegal hunting and trade still continue.
Researchers and scientists from Museum Victoria quickly arrived on-site upon notification to take measurements and collect samples. Their hope is to build a full-scale exhibition model of the shark in the near future.
Read more: 10-Year-Old Attacked By Shark in Florida
