News Animals

Feeding sharks ‘junk food’ takes a toll on their health

A diet of poor-quality scraps is changing the behavior and physiology of blacktip reef sharks

A blacktip reef shark swims over a reef

Blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) on the island of Mo'orea receive food scraps from tourists, but it may not be great for their long-term health.

Johann Mourier

By Jake Buehler

In general, sharks have a reputation as swimming garbage cans that unflinchingly dine on whatever they can fit in their jaws.