Cocaine Found in Sharks off the Coast of Brazil

In a groundbreaking study, marine biologists have found alarming levels of cocaine in Brazilian sharpnose sharks off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. The research, conducted by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, revealed that the concentrations of cocaine in the sharks' muscles and livers are up to 100 times higher than what has been previously reported for other aquatic creatures. This discovery marks the first time cocaine has been detected in sharks.

"The findings are very important and potentially worrying," says Sara Novais, a marine eco-toxicologist at the Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre of the Polytechnic University of Leiria.

How Is the Cocaine Reaching the Sharks?

According to experts, several potential sources could be responsible for the cocaine contamination in the waters. These include:

  • Illegal drug manufacturing labs discharging waste into the water.

  • Excrement of drug users making its way into the ocean.

  • Packs of cocaine lost or dumped by traffickers at sea, although researchers consider this less likely.

Impact on Marine Life

The research is particularly concerning as all the female sharks in the study were found to be pregnant. The effects of cocaine exposure on shark foetuses remain unknown, necessitating further investigation. Previous studies indicate that drugs can have similar effects on animals as they do on humans, potentially altering behavior and physiology.

What Does It Mean for Food Safety?

The presence of cocaine in marine life raises significant concerns about food safety. While sharks are not typically a common food source in many cultures, the contamination of marine ecosystems with illicit drugs poses a broader risk.

Chemicals like benzoylecgonine, a byproduct produced by the liver after cocaine use, have already been found in seawater samples off the south coast of England. This suggests that the issue could be more widespread than initially thought.

As marine animals are a crucial part of the food chain, the contamination could affect a variety of species that are consumed by humans. Therefore, monitoring and mitigating drug pollution in marine environments is essential to ensure the safety of seafood.

Conclusion

The discovery of cocaine in sharks off the Brazilian coast is a concerning environmental and public health issue. It highlights the far-reaching impacts of illegal drug production and consumption on marine ecosystems. Continued research and stringent measures are needed to address this emerging threat and safeguard the health of marine life and human consumers alike.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cek9mr43x1xo.amp

Zoraiz Khan