Off the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, some fishermen found themselves in front of a scene that seemed to be released from a science fiction film. The waters emerged a bright orange native shark, almost two meters long, so particular that it seems an optical illusion. Nothing to do with the typical gray shark: this specimen seemed to be hand -painted.
The meeting took place in August 2024 near the Tortuguer National Park, a protected area full of biodiversity. The fishermen did not waste time and immortalized the animal, sharing the images that quickly made the tour of the social networks. The scientific community confirmed that it is the first documented case of total xantocromism in this species.
A rare mutation
Xantocromism is an extremely rare genetic condition that alters natural pigmentation, bringing out yellow and orange shades. In the case of this shark, the mutation combined with traits of albinism, which is why the animal also had white eyes without iris. A mix of characteristics that made the sighting even more extraordinary.
Scholars observed that, despite the mutation, the shark had reached the adult size, a clear sign that the unusual color had not compromised its survival. This has opened new questions about the genetic variability of Nuetrice sharks and on the possibility that similar phenomena are not isolated, but part of a more complex genetic heritage.
According to some experts, the environmental conditions of the Costa Room Caribe could play a role in promoting the expression of these mutations. If the hypothesis were correct, other creatures with unusual pigmentations could swim in the same waters, waiting to be discovered. A perspective that makes the idea of studying marine biodiversity even more fascinating in this region.
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Posted by Parismina Domus of the on Sunday, August 11, 2024
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