Birth Complications and Cesarean Section in a Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus)

Dystocia occurred in a pregnant blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) from a public aquarium, where the tail fins of two pups were visible on arrival of the veterinarians. Only one dead pup could be extracted manually, therefore a cesarean section was performed ca. 14 hours later after determination that the swimming performance of the pregnant shark was considerably inhibited and surgery was needed, during which three dead pups were removed. The left uterus showed necrotic areas and signs of severe inflammation and the pups from this uterus were heavier than pups from the right uterus. Two days post operation, the shark was euthanized, because it was immobile. A bacteriological examination of liquid from the body cavity resulted in a septicemia presumably associated with an endotoxemia. In captivity, pregnant sharks are prone to overfeeding which may lead to heavier weights of pups than in natural settings, creating birthing difficulties. Hence, during pregnancy feeding should be controlled, and in the event of dystocia, immediate action is required.