As part of its ongoing shark conservation efforts, the Two Oceans Aquarium successfully released Gen, a female ragged-tooth shark, into the open ocean at Struisbaai on March 18. The aquarium’s curatorial staff accompanied her throughout the process to ensure a safe transition back into the wild.

Gen was transported by road in a secure tank with veterinary staff monitoring her condition. Upon arrival, final checks were conducted before she was moved to the water’s edge and released.

According to Heather Wares, Communications Manager at the Two Oceans Aquarium, Struisbaai was chosen for the release as it is home to a population of ragged-tooth sharks that migrate along the Agulhas Ridge towards KwaZulu-Natal. The aquarium has historically released sharks in this area.

Dr Ilse Jenkinson, Two Oceans Aquarium Veterinarian, confirmed that Gen was in good health with strong vital signs before release. The shark was placed in the surf using a specially designed stretcher and showed immediate readiness to return to the ocean. Two divers monitored her behaviour as she swam away.

Gen spent eight years in the Two Oceans Aquarium’s Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Exhibit after being collected by a fisherman off the coast of East London in 2017. She was named by the fisherman who chose his wife’s name. During her time at the aquarium, she grew from 62kg and 238cm in length to 209kg and 286cm. Now sexually mature, her release gives her the opportunity to contribute to the wild population.

To track her movements, Gen was fitted with a spaghetti tag. Fishers who catch tagged sharks are encouraged to report the tag number, location and other details to help scientists monitor shark populations.

The aquarium’s catch-and-release programme aims to raise awareness about sharks and their ecological role, Jenkinson emphasised. “These sharks act as ambassadors helping to change perceptions and educate visitors. Our goal is not to fear them but to appreciate their complexity and importance in the marine environment.”