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First documentation of gravid Alopias vulpinus (Bonnaterre, 1788) in the southeastern Pacific: Evidence for a
Sarita Campos-León1, Fabiola Zavalaga2, Bryan L Huerta-Beltrán3
1Laboratorio Costero de Camaná, Instituto del Mar del Perú, Arequipa, Peru.
Journal of Fish Biology
|September 29, 2025
Summary
Pregnant thresher sharks (Alopias vulpinus) were found off Peru, revealing oophagy in embryos. This suggests a potential gestation corridor, aiding conservation of this endangered species in the southeastern Pacific.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Ichthyology
- Conservation Science
Background:
- Thresher sharks (Alopias vulpinus) are globally distributed but understudied in the southeastern Pacific.
- Accurate species identification is crucial for effective conservation efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the presence and reproductive strategy of thresher sharks off Peru.
- To investigate potential gestation areas for Alopias vulpinus in the southeastern Pacific.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of four full-term Alopias vulpinus embryos from gravid females captured off Peru.
- Observation and documentation of embryonic development and nutritional strategies.
Main Results:
- Embryos exhibited oophagy, a form of intrauterine nutrient absorption.
- Repeated captures of pregnant females suggest a potential gestation corridor along the Peruvian coast.
Conclusions:
- Oophagy is a key reproductive strategy for Alopias vulpinus in this region.
- The Peruvian coast may serve as a critical gestation site, necessitating targeted conservation measures.
- Further research is vital for the conservation of endangered thresher sharks in the southeastern Pacific.
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