Rare orange-yellow shark caught in Costa Rica’s Caribbean

(Web Desk): This extraordinary shark was caught during fishing near Tortuguero National Park on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast by a young fisherman, Juan Pablo.

According to reports, Juan Pablo caught this unusual shark from a depth of approximately 120 feet (37 meters).

It is a nurse shark, scientifically known as Ginglymostoma cirratum. Its color is orange-yellow, which is highly unusual. Its eyes are completely white, which is a sign of disease. This is the first time that xanthism (yellow/orange coloring) has been recorded in any shark in Costa Rica or anywhere in the world.

Experts have considered this discovery significant based on the following parameters: The shark was about 6.5 feet (2 meters) long and fully grown, indicating that its unique coloration did not hinder its survival.

Both xanthism and albinism are caused by genetic factors, but researchers have also suggested that inbreeding, environmental pressure, or hormonal imbalances could potentially be contributing factors.