Capture-induced parturition in three ray species: maternal and pup survival, and practical implications for handling
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22458/urj.v18i1.6639Keywords:
batoids, Central America, conservation, monitoring protocols, premature birth, stress responseAbstract
Introduction: Elasmobranchs are particularly susceptible to handling-related impacts, making careful management essential to avoid excessive physical trauma and stress. In pregnant females, capture may trigger induced parturition, which is generally considered abortion because survival rates have not been evaluated. Objective: To document and describe capture-induced parturition events in rays and their implications for the protocols used during monitoring efforts. Methods: In 2022 and 2024, we documented three cases of capture-induced parturition involving three ray species in El Jobo, Pacific of Costa Rica. We captured pregnant females using hand nets while snorkeling and transported them to shore to record morphological data before subsequently releasing them. Results: We recorded three capture-induced parturition events, in Urobatis pardalis, Urotrygon rogersi, and Gymnura crebripunctata. Pup size suggested that all females were in the final stage of gestation. Unlike most previous reports, we released all females and pups in apparently good condition, representing rarely documented cases in which both mothers and premature pups survived following stress-related parturition. Conclusion: These findings suggest that rapid release combined with minimal handling procedures may improve the likelihood of survival for premature pups at certain stages of gestational development.
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