A bull shark in our care for 40 years! Updating the world record for the longest captivity of a bull shark!!

This June marks the 40-year anniversary of a male bull shark being displayed and cared for at Churaumi Aquarium. This individual already holds the world record for the longest period this species has been cared for in captivity, and this is an update of the record.

The bull shark arrived on June 21st, 1978 (at that time the aquarium was the Okinawa Commemorative National Government Park Aquarium).
The male bull shark has successfully reproduced with the female bull shark three times and many pups were born. Furthermore, its offspring has also produced pups.
Last year, the bull shark exhibit was moved to a temporary holding area due to changes in the exhibits, however, on June 21st 2018, the bull shark exhibit was reopened at the Shark Research Lab on the 40-year anniversary. Please discover the magnificent bull shark at the exhibit.
Through long term rearing our facility will continue to study this species.

（Bull shark cared for in captivity for 40 years）

≪Bull shark≫
Scientific name: Carcharhinus leucas

A species of requiem shark (Family Carcharhinidae) that reaches 3 meters in total length. This species is known to attack humans. Its snout is rounder than other requiem sharks. In the Okinawan dialect bull sharks are called “shironakaa”. Pups born in early summer can sometimes enter rivers.

Place

“Shark Research Lab” in Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.
*Exhibit may close depending on the condition of the animals.