First documented presence of Galeocerdo cuvier (Péron & Lesueur, 1822) (ELASMOBRANCHII, CARCHARHINIDAE) in the Mediterranean basin (Libyan waters)

Abstract

One male and one female specimen of tiger shark, Galeocerdo cuvier (Péron & Lesueur, 1822), were accidentally caught by a drifting longline for swordfish in the south Mediterranean (Libyan waters). This finding confirms beyond any doubt that the tiger shark may be encountered in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Although records of this species has previously been reported, the information is partial or dubious, due to the lack of a description of the individuals found or the uncertain provenance of preserved material. Our finding confirms the record of this species in the southern part of the Mediterranean basin. Images, as well as morphometrics and information on stomach contents are given. Based on the size of the individuals, it is considered that the two specimens were born recently, presumably inside the Mediterranean Sea and likely close to the area where the individuals were found.