On the tourist beach of Luarca, located in the northwest of Spain, vacationers witnessed an unusual phenomenon – a deep-sea shark weighing 18 kilograms and measuring 1.45 meters in length was washed ashore. This attracted the attention of many people, as such sharks usually inhabit depths of up to 3500 meters.
According to The Mirror, specialists immediately began to examine the found shark. Luis Laria, director of the Center for the Study and Protection of Marine Species, performed an autopsy to determine the cause of its death. It was discovered that the shark was pregnant and contained 12 large embryos.
Scientists reported that this species of shark is adapted to life in darkness due to its large eyes. However, many internet users began to compare it to cartoon characters. During the investigation, the cause of the animal's death was established: the shark had a 3.5 cm laceration in its esophagus, likely caused by swallowing a fishing hook, after which the shark managed to free itself, but the internal damage led to severe bleeding, resulting in it being washed ashore.
It is known that this species, also called the Portuguese shark, was previously heavily fished for its meat and fat. Currently, these sharks are endangered due to slow reproduction and an official ban on their catch. The liver of the found shark weighed 5 kilograms, which is a significant part of its total mass. In their natural habitat, they feed on fish and sometimes hunt giant squid.
The unusual appearance of the shark sparked interest and discussion among locals and tourists. Many noted that its eyes and head shape resemble the dragon Toothless from the animated film "How to Train Your Dragon." Despite the sad outcome, this discovery provided scientists with important data about the biology of this rare species.
