Sharks off Brazil coast test positive for cocaine

Scientists have discovered high levels of cocaine in Brazilian sharpnose sharks near Rio de Janeiro. Marine biologists from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation tested 13 sharks and found cocaine concentrations in their muscles and livers up to 100 times higher than those in other aquatic creatures. This marks the first time cocaine has been detected in sharks.

Experts suggest the drug enters the ocean through illegal drug labs, excrement from users, or possibly dumped packs by traffickers. The discovery raises concerns about the impact on marine life, especially as all female sharks in the study were pregnant. The effects of cocaine on shark behavior and foetal development remain unknown, necessitating further research. Previous studies indicate that drugs can affect animals similarly to humans. The findings highlight the broader issue of drug contamination in marine environments.

Source: BBC