Red eyes in juvenile bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) from Fiji

Glaus, Kerstin and Genter, Franziska and Brunnschweiler, Juerg (2023) Red eyes in juvenile bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) from Fiji. Pacific Conservation Biology, 29 (5). NA. ISSN 1038-2097

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Abstract

The bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas) is an apex predator with a wide distribution in tropical and warm temperate waters. This species is known to utilize freshwater systems and estuaries as nursery grounds. During a wider bull shark tagging survey in the Rewa River, Fiji, in 2017 and 2018, 27 neonate bull sharks with red eye pupils were recorded. This opportunistic observation prompted an examination of water quality parameters in the Rewa River to collect preliminary data on the potential cause of pollution. Water samples were analyzed for fecal indicator bacteria (Escherichia coli), ammonia, total nitrogen, and various metals. Results indicated high levels of E. coli contamination, as well as elevated ammonia and total nitrogen concentrations. However, due to the limited sample size and the likelihood of additional underlying causes, a definitive causal relationship could not be established. Hence, this finding stands as an opportunistic observation, detailed here for documentation and stimulation of discourse.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	Q Science > QL Zoology
Divisions:	School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences (SAGEONS)
Depositing User:	Kerstin Glaus
Date Deposited:	15 Oct 2023 21:55
Last Modified:	16 Oct 2023 22:06
URI:	https://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/14224

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