Affiliation:
1. ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia
2. College of Science and Engineering James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia
Abstract
AbstractDystocia, or obstructed labor, is a well‐documented phenomenon in various captive vertebrates, including fish. However, despite the documentation of dystocia in several viviparous (live‐bearing) Chondrichthyan species (i.e., sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras), there are no reports to date of dystocia in any oviparous (egg‐laying) species. Here we present a case of a captive female epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) that demonstrated symptoms of dystocia in a research‐related captive breeding programme. This communication serves as documentation that dystocia can occur in oviparous Chondrichthyans, and this information can help inform researchers and veterinary practitioners for improved care.
Funder
James Cook University
Australian Wildlife Society
Australian Society for Fish Biology