Anglers near Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica made an extraordinary catch: a stunning, two-meter-long bright orange nurse shark with completely white eyes. After quick measurements and photos, the unique creature was released back into the ocean unharmed.
A study in Marine Biodiversity revealed the shark's striking appearance stems from xanthism—a rare genetic condition causing excess yellow/orange pigmentation—combined with partial albinism, evidenced by its iris-less white eyes. Researchers confirmed this dual genetic anomaly is the first ever recorded in cartilaginous fish across the Caribbean.
While nurse sharks typically rely on dark brown skin to blend into the seafloor, this vibrant orange coloration leaves the predator uniquely exposed and vulnerable in its natural habitat.
#MarineBiology #SharkWeek #OceanLife
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