Sharks Test Cocaine-Positive Off The Coast Of Brazil’s Party City Rio de Janeiro

Marine biologists have found that sharks off the coast of Rio de Janeiro tested positive for cocaine.

Over nearly three years, 13 sharp nose sharks were tested, all showing high amounts of cocaine in their muscle and liver tissues.

Researchers believe the contamination stems from inadequate sewage treatment and illegal drug operations, including traffickers’ lost or dumped cocaine in the water.

Biologist Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis expressed concerns about the potential impact on shark growth, maturation, and reproduction.

The samples, gathered from September 2021 to August 2023, were part of a program to monitor pollution’s impact on marine life.

Past studies show drugs like antidepressants and heavy metals pollute aquatic ecosystems. Brown trout have even been shown to develop methamphetamine addictions.

The discovery of cocaine in sharks highlights serious environmental issues. This study calls for urgent action to improve our sewage systems and combat illegal drug pollution.