Archive · 21 Aug 2025
Rare Orange Shark Spotted off Costa Rica
A fisherman in Costa Rica caught a very unusual shark!
It was bright orange with white eyes, like it was wearing a colorful costume.
This shark has two rare conditions: xanthism, which made it extra yellow, and albinism, which made its eyes white.
These conditions are uncommon, especially together, which makes this shark special.
Because of its bright colors, it might be harder for it to hide from bigger animals or find food.
Scientists are now studying why it happened.
An orange nurse shark with white eyes was discovered off the coast of Costa Rica.
The shark measured approximately six feet long.
The shark's unusual color is due to xanthism, causing excess yellow pigmentation.
The shark also displayed albinism, evident in its white eyes.
Researchers are studying the genetic and environmental factors behind the pigmentation.
- Who
- A fisherman.
- What
- A rare, bright orange shark with white eyes was caught off the coast of Costa Rica.
- When
- Not explicitly mentioned.
- Where
- Off the coast of Costa Rica, near Tortuguero National Park.
- Why
- Due to a combination of xanthism and albinism, both rare genetic conditions.
- Color
- Bright orange with white eyes
- Length
- Approx. 6 feet
- Location
- Coast of Costa Rica
- Depth
- 37 meters
- Condition 1
- Xanthism (excess yellow pigmentation)
- Condition 2
- Albinism (lack of melanin)
