Sharks migrate from Kenya to Pretoria

National Zoological Garden (NZG) welcomes over 200 marine fish

SOUTH AFRICA: The three Blacktip Reef Sharks that landed at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport recently after a 10-hour flight from Kenya were promptly transported to the National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria where they joined more than 200 colourful marine fish as the inland aquarium eeks to offer visitors a rich glimpse of into the wonders of ocean life.

“The arrival of these animals not only adds to the beauty and diversity of our exhibits, but also helps us tell a bigger story about ocean ecosystems and the threats they face,” said Tracy Rehse, Director of Animal Collections at NZG.

Each shark travelled in a 1,000-litre plastic tank fitted with secure lids and connected to life support systems to ensure proper oxygenation during the journey. Upon arrival, they were carefully introduced to their new environment, gradually adjusting water temperature, salinity, and pH to ensure a smooth and stress-free acclimation process.

This latest development forms part of NZG’s ongoing mission to connect people with biodiversity and highlight the importance of marine conservation through education and immersive experiences.

The Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) is a fast and agile species native to the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Known for their distinctive black-tipped fins and remarkable swimming speed, these sharks are effective daytime hunters that often move in small groups, feeding on fish, crustaceans, and molluscs.

In the wild, they face growing threats from habitat destruction and overfishing and are currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. While their average lifespan in the wild ranges from 10 to 12 years, they can live for over 20 years in well-maintained aquarium settings, reaching lengths of 1.5 to 2 metres.

Accompanying the sharks were 220 marine fish, including striking species such as Powder Blue Tangs, Skunk-striped Anemonefish, Stars and Stripes Pufferfish, and Green Bird Wrasse. Each fish was individually transported in oxygen-rich marine water and carefully acclimated to their new habitat using controlled floating methods before joining the existing aquarium population.

Now fully settled, the new arrivals are thriving, feeding well, interacting with their surroundings, and capturing the curiosity and admiration of visitors.

PHOTO: Blacktip shark (Adobe Photostock)

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