A fisherman off the coast of Costa Rica has reeled in a stunning and highly unusual catch – a bright orange nurse shark, believed to be the first documented case of total xanthism in its species and the first such record in the Caribbean Sea.
The two-metre long shark, caught by Garvin Watson near Tortuguero National Park, immediately drew attention for its vivid, pumpkin-orange coloration – a dramatic contrast to the typical greyish-brown tones of its species.
The shark’s coloration is attributed to xanthism, a rare genetic condition that causes abnormal yellow or gold pigmentation in animals.
Scientists who later studied photos of the specimen also noted that the shark exhibited partial albinism, evident in its pale eyes and lack of typical dark pigment.
Researchers Marioxis Macías-Cuyare, Gilberto Rafael Borges Guzmán, and Daniel Arauz-Naranjo published findings in Marine Biodiversity, confirming the case as a significant first for both the species and region.
‘Once in a lifetime’
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime discovery,” said Macías-Cuyare.
“The occurrence of total xanthism in a nurse shark has never before been documented. Its presence in the Caribbean provides valuable insights into marine biodiversity and genetic variation.”
Images of the shark circulated widely on social media before catching the attention of marine scientists, who praised the fisherman for documenting and releasing the animal.
The catch serves as a reminder of the ocean’s vast, largely unexplored genetic diversity.
Scientists say such rare finds can help shed light on genetic mutations and their role in marine evolution and adaptation.
While the shark has since been released back into the ocean, it has already made a permanent mark on marine biology records – and captured the imagination of the public with its striking, almost surreal appearance.
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