Abstract
An individual specimen of Galapagos shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis) was observed in the waters surrounding Malpelo Island, Colombia, on the 9th of July 2016 and the 13th of June 2019, which was identified by direct observation, photos, and videos obtained during scuba diving. The individual was approximately 2 m in total length and presented white coloration throughout its body (back and belly). Due to the extent and uniformity of the unusual coloration, the individual could be considered an albino. This record constitutes the first verified report of albinism for this species.
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to express their gratitude to Colombia Dive Adventures and the tourism boat operators at Malpelo Island for allowing us to accompany them on their diving days, National Natural Parks of Colombia for their permission and support to enter the protected area, Fundación Alium Pacific, the anonymous reviewers for their comments and suggestions, and Daniel Edgar for editing the English version of the manuscript.
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C.E.M. wrote the main manuscript text. C.E.M., P.M.S.G. prepared figures, and J.O.L.M. shared the video. All authors reviewed the manuscript.
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Estupiñán-Montaño, C., Sánchez-Gómez, P.M. & López-Montoya, J.O. Albinism in the Galapagos Shark, Carcharhinus Galapagensis (Snodgrass & Heller, 1905) at Malpelo Island, Colombia. Thalassas 40, 59–64 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41208-023-00616-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s41208-023-00616-8