Abstract

In support of several in situ sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus) research projects, 15 wild sharks were examined off the North Carolina coast in 2017. The animals were collected via hook and line adjacent to offshore shipwrecks, briefly sampled and/or tagged alongside the vessel, then released at the same location. Fourteen of these sharks were adult females, and one a subadult male. Ultrasound examinations were performed on most animals, and 11 of 14 females were confirmed gravid, with a single live fetus in each uterine horn. Blood samples were obtained for point-of-care blood gas analysis, serum chemistry, and reproductive hormone assays. Tissue samples (fin clip) and additional blood were collected in support of other collaborative projects.

This project is a preliminary first step in elucidating how and why sand tiger sharks utilize the artificial structure of shipwrecks off the North Carolina coast, and suggests this may be vital habitat for gestating females of this species.

Acknowledgements

The author thanks the staff of the North Carolina Aquariums for their energy and enthusiasm on research trips, as well as SEZARC and other STS working group collaborators.

* Presenting author