Pregnant Female Fin Shark Found Dead on Hadera Beach
A tragic incident occurred on Olga Beach near Hadera, where a pregnant female fin shark washed ashore, prompting immediate action from the Nature and Parks Authority. The shark, measuring approximately two meters in length, was discovered lifeless and bleeding from the mouth. Nature and Parks Authority personnel quickly transported the shark to the Sea Turtle Rescue Center in Michmoret for further examination.
Upon arrival, the team conducted an autopsy to investigate the cause of death and to check for any embryos. Unfortunately, they found that the shark had seven embryos—four females and three males—each about 30 centimeters long. Despite attempts to resuscitate the embryos, they did not survive. Dr. Adi Barash, a researcher from the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History, confirmed that this female shark was known to researchers and was in an advanced stage of pregnancy. The gestation period for fin sharks is approximately 20 months, and the embryos were likely not fully developed at the time of their mother's death.
Investigation into Cause of Death
The Nature and Parks Authority suspects that the bleeding observed in the shark's mouth may have been caused by a fishing hook. Inspector Shai Cabasa noted that several sharks in the Hadera area have been found with hooks in their mouths. During the autopsy, two fishing hooks and fresh bait were discovered in the shark's stomach, with one hook having penetrated the stomach wall, likely causing significant damage.
Dr. Aviad Sheinin from the Maurice Kahn Marine Research Station highlighted that female fin sharks are rarely seen in the area, with only six females tagged in the last decade compared to 40 males. This incident underscores the ongoing research efforts to monitor and protect the fin shark population in the Mediterranean Sea, which is currently facing threats to its survival.
