Scientists in the Bahamas have encountered sharks that tested positive for cocaine and other substances. Specifically, a group of scientists detected the presence of substances—such as cocaine, caffeine, and pharmaceuticals—in sharks inhabiting the waters near Eleuthera within the Bahamian archipelago, providing evidence of contamination in marine ecosystems.
The research, conducted by the Cape Eleuthera Institute in collaboration with international teams, analyzed blood samples from 85 sharks with the aim of identifying illicit compounds, stimulants, and medications.
The results constitute the first global record of caffeine and acetaminophen found in sharks, as well as the first record of cocaine and diclofenac in specimens from the Bahamas. Tests identified cocaine, caffeine, acetaminophen, and diclofenac in 28 of the 85 animals evaluated at various locations around Eleuthera, which is situated 84 miles east of Nassau.
Caffeine was detected in 27 cases, acetaminophen in three, cocaine in two, and diclofenac in three. The site exhibiting the highest concentration of these compounds was the “Aquaculture Cage” area—a zone frequented by vessels and tour operators conducting diving activities.
The researchers noted that these practices may contribute to the accumulation of such substances within the marine environment. The analysis also revealed differences in biological markers between sharks that tested positive for these substances and those that did not; however, the study did not establish any specific health effects on the animals.
These findings draw attention to the disruption of marine ecosystems, the impact of human activities, and the potential adverse effects on species that are critical to both the ecological balance and the tourism industry in the region.
Source: Milenio
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