FIU scientists star in National Geographic's SharkFest 2025

FIU shark scientists will appear in multiple shows during National Geographic’s SharkFest 2025 including a six-part series co-hosted by FIU’s Mike Heithaus. The researchers go in search of the ocean’s top predators, investigate when and why sharks attack and more.

FIU researchers featured include:

• Mike Heithaus, executive dean of theCollege of Arts, Sciences & Education, vice provost of environmental resilience and Biscayne Bay Campus, professor of biological sciences and marine ecologist
• Yannis Papastamatiou, FIU associate professor of biological sciences and marine biologist
• Candace Fields, biological sciences Ph.D. candidate studying the population dynamics and geographic population structure of large predators 

SharkFest 2025 kicks off July 5 at 8 p.m. on National Geographic and streaming begins July 6 on Disney+ and Hulu. A sharks collection page is also available on Disney+, Nat Geo TV App and ABC App with episodes from previous years of SharkFest including past shows featuring FIU scientists.

New shows and episodes for 2025 featuring FIU shark scientists include: 

Investigation Shark Attack
Premieres Saturday, July 5 at 9 p.m.

Delivering  an in-depth look inside the mind of these apex predators, the six-part series explores shark behavior from their unique perspective. An intense forensic investigation at the innovative Shark Headquarters by a panel of scientists, led by Heithaus, analyzes key theories and ultimately dissects each encounter to determine what leads sharks to strike.

JAWS @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story
Premieres July 10 at 9 p.m.

The authorized documentary charts the extraordinary journey from Peter Benchley’s bestselling novel to the iconic film. Featuring rare archival footage and interviews with acclaimed Hollywood directors, top shark scientists, and conservationists, the documentary uncovers the behind-the-scenes chaos and how the film launched the summer blockbuster, inspired a new wave of filmmakers, and paved the way for shark conservation that continues today.

Shark Quest: Hunt for the Apex Predator
Premieres July 13 at 9 p.m.

As shark populations are declining, finding ways to share the seas is more critical than ever. In a series of jaw-dropping stories, survivors recount their harrowing encounters with massive sharks. Scientists explore the key hot spots that make up the most shark-infested waters.

All times listed are eastern standard time.