Sharks Found Intoxicated with Cocaine in Brazil Waters

Brazilian scientists have discovered, for the first time in the world, sharks intoxicated with cocaine. This groundbreaking finding raises concerns about marine pollution and its impact on marine life

A group of Brazilian scientists has made a truly unprecedented discovery: sharks intoxicated with cocaine. This finding, revealed by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), a research organization associated with the Brazilian Ministry of Health, is the first of its kind in the world. The study, published in the journal Science of The Total Environment, identified the presence of cocaine in 13 sharks of the species Rhizoprionodon leylandii, commonly known as the Brazilian sharp-nose shark.

The samples were collected in the neighborhood of Recreio dos Bandeirantes in the western zone of Rio de Janeiro between September 2021 and August 2023. This was part of a project monitoring potential changes in marine life, whether natural or human-induced. The presence of cocaine and its primary metabolite, benzoylecgonine, was detected in the muscle and liver tissues of these sharks.

The results were described as “impressive” by Enrico Mendes, a pharmacist and one of the study’s authors, alongside biologist Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis. Both are members of the Laboratory of Environmental Health Assessment and Promotion at Fiocruz. This groundbreaking discovery involved analyzing muscle tissue and the liver of the 13 sharks, comprising three males and ten females.

“In Brazil, there have been studies detecting cocaine in water and some aquatic creatures, such as mussels. Our analysis is the first to find the substance in sharks,” Mendes explained. The detection of cocaine in these apex predators indicates a significant level of contamination in the marine environment of Rio de Janeiro.

Cocaine Contamination via Sewage

Researchers believe that the sharks became intoxicated due to overexposure to large quantities of cocaine being disposed of into the sea through Rio de Janeiro’s sewage system. The study found higher concentrations of cocaine in the muscle tissues of the sharks than in their livers, suggesting a substantial presence of the drug in the marine environment.

“The sharks are likely getting intoxicated in various ways, either by living in the contaminated region or feeding on other contaminated animals,” Mendes pointed out. Ann Hauser-Davis emphasized that the Brazilian sharp nose shark is a non-migratory species living close to the coast, making it more susceptible to contamination in the densely populated western zone of Rio.

This area, home to nearly three million people according to the latest census, has seen rapid growth and urbanization. The researchers suggest that the contamination could impact these sharks’ growth, maturation, and fertility, as the liver plays a crucial role in the development of embryos.

Human Health Risks and Future Research

Regarding potential impacts on human health, the researchers believe the risks are minimal, given the infrequent contact with the water and the fact that this water is not used for drinking or food preparation. However, Ann Hauser-Davis noted that these sharks are often sold irregularly in markets, which could pose a risk. This underscores the need for more studies to fully understand the implications.

The team plans to collect and analyze water samples and other marine animals from this and other regions along the Rio de Janeiro coast to determine the extent of this phenomenon. Brazil, a significant consumer of cocaine, also serves as a key exit route for drugs produced in other countries in the region, such as Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia, according to the latest report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

This discovery in Brazil is a part of a broader regional issue. Latin America faces significant challenges with drug trafficking and consumption, which have far-reaching environmental impacts. The Amazon basin, for example, has been a transit route for drug traffickers, leading to deforestation and pollution.

The contamination of marine life with cocaine in Brazil highlights the complex interplay between illegal drug trade and environmental health. Countries like Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia, which are major cocaine producers, contribute to this environmental issue, as their products often end up in the waters of transit countries like Brazil.

Marine Pollution and Ecological Impact

The presence of cocaine in sharks is a stark reminder of the broader issue of marine pollution. Latin American waters face threats from various pollutants, including plastic waste, industrial chemicals, and agricultural runoff. The introduction of narcotics into aquatic ecosystems is a relatively new and alarming development.

Marine animals, particularly apex predators like sharks, are vulnerable to these pollutants. The bioaccumulation of toxins in their bodies can lead to health issues and affect their reproductive capabilities. This, in turn, can have cascading effects on the entire marine food web, impacting biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

The findings from the Fiocruz study underscore the need for immediate and collective action to address marine pollution in Latin America. Governments and environmental organizations must work together, implementing stricter regulations on waste disposal and sewage treatment. Increased monitoring and research are also crucial to fully understand the extent of pollution and its impact on marine life.

Public awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in reducing pollution. Educating communities about the importance of proper waste disposal and the environmental consequences of drug trafficking can help mitigate the problem. However, to truly address the issue, collaborative efforts between countries in the region are necessary to tackle the transnational nature of drug-related pollution.

Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of cocaine and other contaminants on marine ecosystems. Studies should focus on a broader range of species and geographic areas to comprehensively understand the issue. This research can inform policy decisions and conservation strategies to protect marine biodiversity in Latin America.

A Wake-Up Call

The discovery of cocaine-intoxicated sharks in Brazil serves as a wake-up call for the region. It underscores the urgent need to address marine pollution and its underlying causes, including drug trafficking. By taking proactive measures and fostering regional cooperation, Latin America can work towards preserving its rich marine biodiversity and ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.

Also read: Latin American Oil Giants Among Top Global CO2 Emitters

As the scientific community continues to investigate this phenomenon, policymakers, environmentalists, and the public must recognize the interconnectedness of human activities and environmental health. Only through collective action and sustained commitment can we mitigate the impacts of pollution and protect our precious marine ecosystems.