Marine biologists have discovered a startling phenomenon off the coast of Brazil: sharks near Rio de Janeiro have tested positive for cocaine.
In a study conducted by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 13 sharks were examined, revealing alarmingly high levels of cocaine in their muscles and livers—up to 100 times higher than previously reported in other marine creatures.
Researchers believe the drug reaches these marine animals through various sources. One theory suggests the contamination originates from illegal drug labs or from the excrement of drug users. While discarded or lost cocaine packages thrown overboard by traffickers are considered a possible source, it is deemed less likely.
Notably, all the female sharks tested were pregnant, raising concerns about the potential impact of cocaine exposure on their fetuses. Experts emphasize the need for further research to determine if and how cocaine affects shark behavior and development. This groundbreaking study marks the first time cocaine has been detected in sharks, highlighting an urgent environmental and public health issue.