Researchers Capture First-Ever Leopard Shark Threesome Off New Caledonia

For the first time, scientists have documented a threesome mating event involving endangered Indo-Pacific leopard sharks off the coast of New Caledonia. Marine biologist Dr. Hugo Lassauce, while surveying the population, recorded two males sequentially mating with a single female, an observation that lasted just under two minutes and was divided into pre-copulation, copulation, and post-copulation stages. This rare field observation contrasts prior captive studies that only noted single male-female interactions and is significant as leopard sharks are endangered due to overfishing and habitat threats in parts of their range. The discovery suggests that the surveyed area may be an important breeding ground, which could inform conservation strategies focused on protecting and potentially reintroducing the species in Southeast Asia. Experts emphasize the importance of understanding leopard shark behavior and ecology to aid in their preservation, noting that this kind of reproductive insight is crucial for effective species management. The findings were published in the Journal of Ethology and captured widespread attention through both video footage and scientific reports.