22 August,2025- In an extraordinary discovery, anglers off the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica have encountered a nurse shark with an unusual orange hue and strikingly white eyes. Experts say this rare coloration is the result of a genetic combination of xanthism and albinism, a phenomenon never before recorded in the region.
The shark, estimated to be about two meters long, was found near the waters of Tortuguero National Park. Scientists examining the specimen confirmed that the vivid orange skin is caused by xanthism, a condition that leads to excess yellow pigmentation. The shark’s white eyes, a sign of albinism, occur due to a lack of melanin. Together, these conditions create an extremely rare albino-xanthic appearance.
Marine biologists noted that this is the first recorded case of xanthism in nurse sharks in the Caribbean. The discovery has sparked significant scientific interest, as it provides new insight into genetic diversity among marine species. Researchers are now studying whether this is an isolated case or indicative of a broader genetic variation in local shark populations.
After examination and documentation, the shark was released back into its natural habitat. Experts stress that such rare sightings highlight the need for ongoing conservation and research efforts to protect the region’s marine life. This discovery not only deepens understanding of marine genetics but also underscores the hidden diversity thriving beneath Costa Rica’s Caribbean waters.
