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Published on: May 25, 2019
Evidence of dystocia in an oviparous shark
Carolyn R Wheeler1, Jodie L Rummer1,2
1ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia.
Abstract:
Dystocia, or obstructed labor, is a well-documented phenomenon in various captive vertebrates, including fish. However, despite the documentation of dystocia in several viviparous (live-bearing) Chondrichthyan species (i.e., sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras), there are no reports to date of dystocia in any oviparous (egg-laying) species. Here we present a case of a captive female epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) that demonstrated symptoms of dystocia in a research-related captive breeding programme. This communication serves as documentation that dystocia can occur in oviparous Chondrichthyans, and this information can help inform researchers and veterinary practitioners for improved care.
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