SAEDNEWS: It is believed to be the first recorded instance of a pregnant shark of this species.
Much about life in our planet’s oceans remains a mystery. Rare species dwell in the deep, and new regions are constantly being explored. Sometimes, the only clues to what lies beneath the waves appear when these creatures unexpectedly wash up on our shores.
In Dipaculao, Philippines, an exceptionally rare megamouth shark (Megachasma pelagios) was found dead on the beach, alongside a juvenile shark and six pups inside her, all of them deceased. Tragically, this represents the first documented pregnant individual of this species.
Megamouth sharks were first discovered in 1976. Like whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) and basking sharks (Cetorhinus maximus), they are filter feeders and can weigh up to 1,215 kilograms. Since their discovery, only about 120 have been seen or captured, leaving scientists with limited information about their ecology and life history.
The mother measured an impressive 5.6 meters, while the seven pups ranged from 165 to 183.5 centimeters in length. The cause of stranding and death remains unclear, but AA Yaptinchay of the Philippine Marine Wildlife Watch, who oversaw the autopsy, notes that sharks often expel their pups or eggs when stressed. The mother showed no signs of injury from boats or fishing gear.
Researchers hope the autopsy will provide new insights into the physiology and elusive lifestyle of this rare shark species.
