Anticipation is building on the far-flung island of Fuvahmulah in the Maldives where the imminent arrival in its waters of the international Nekton science mission could unlock the mystery of why it has become home to one of the world's largest, and seemingly healthiest, tiger shark populations.

The sharks – which can grow to several metres in length – are now a tourist attraction for diving enthusiasts, even if less popular with local fishermen who compete for the tuna the giant predators eat.