Sharks off the coast of Brazil have tested positive for cocaine, scientists say. Marine biologists tested 13 Brazilian sharpnose sharks taken from the shores near Rio de Janeiro and found they tested for high levels of cocaine in their muscles and livers. The research, carried out by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, is the first to find the presence of cocaine in sharks. Further research is required to ascertain whether cocaine is changing the behaviour of the sharks. Last year, chemical compounds including benzoylecgonine, which is produced by the liver after cocaine use, were found in seawater samples collected off the south coast of England.

Source: The Times July 23, 2024 23:35 UTC