In a significant stride forward for marine conservation, the Two Oceans Aquarium, in Cape Town has successfully released Gen, a female ragged-tooth shark, back into the waters off Struisbaai, following her eight-year journey at the facility.
Accompanied by dedicated Aquarium curatorial staff, the release aimed to ensure a peaceful transition back to her natural habitat.
Gen, originally brought to the Aquarium in June 2017 after being caught by a fisherman near East London, had since grown from a 62kg, 238cm juvenile to a robust 209kg and 286cm adult.
On release day, she was transported in a secure tank, with utmost medical vigilance ensured throughout the journey.
“All precautions were taken through careful medical monitoring along the way,” said Dr Ilse Jenkinson, the aquarium’s veterinarian.
“Upon arrival, final observations and vital signs were taken.”
Communications manager Heather Wares noted that: “The Aquarium tends to release ragged-tooth sharks in this area as there is an existing population of which some migrate along the Agulhas Ridge off the coast of Struisbaai towards the warmer waters of Kwa-Zulu Natal.”
Utilising a specially designed stretcher, the curatorial team gently walked Gen into the surf, where she visibly exhibited readiness to return home.
Guided by instinct as she pressed against the stretcher, the team released her while divers closely monitored her initial behaviours in the open ocean.
Reflecting on Gen's tenure at the Aquarium, curator Kevin Spiby shared: “Today, we had the privilege of returning one of our largest ragged-tooth sharks to the big blue. During her time with us, she became a true ambassador for her species, educating thousands of visitors on the crucial role of sharks in our marine ecosystems.”
In her eight years at the Two Oceans Aquarium, Gen played an essential role in changing perceptions about sharks, helping visitors appreciate these complex creatures, rather than fear them.
As part of ongoing conservation efforts, Gen was fitted with a spaghetti tag on her release, allowing researchers to track her movements along the coastline.
This tagging initiative provides valuable data regarding shark populations and raises awareness about the threats they face.
“We encourage fishers to report when they catch a tagged shark, as this information helps us understand their growth and migration patterns,” Spiby explained.
Dr Jenkinson expressed her hope that Gen could now breed and contribute to the wild population.