ABSTRACT
What is your next diagnostic step considering the delicate nature of bonnethead sharks? Testing stray electrical current and copper are always warranted in cephalofoil sharks. Both of these were tested and considered normal before proceeding. A full examination requiring capture of an adult can be stressful but may be necessary. An iSTAT or similar device is recommended to monitor blood pH and lactic acid during shark examinations. In this case, a quick examination of the gill slits found numerous monogeneans that were confirmed with microscopic examination as Erpocotyle tiburonis ( 1 ). The previous praziquantel immersions should have resolved this condition. https://s3-euw1-ap-pe-df-pch-content-public-p.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/9781315381497/a7b76288-16e2-49ba-a768-6a91d6401bbd/content/afig1_OC.jpg"/>
Had there been evidence of lactic acidosis how would you manage this problem? Sodium bicarbonate can be given in the dorsal fin sinus, ventral tail vein, or IM at 1.0 mEq/kg as often as necessary. Juvenile bonnethead sharks are easy to catch at the surface, although their small size can make administration of bicarbonate difficult. Using oxygen to saturate the water to 115–150% can alleviate lactic acidosis, and staff agreed to a quick examination on a bonnethead juvenile despite no findings on necropsy.
