Walking Shark Shocks Scientists: Reproduces Under Stress with No Extra Energy Cost

• Australian epaulette sharks, known for 'walking' with fins, exhibit unexpected reproductive behavior.
• Scientists found these sharks reproduce without increased metabolic energy, even during egg production.
• This contradicts established biological models where reproduction typically demands significant energy investment.
• The sharks' ability to maintain stable energy output during reproduction suggests a unique adaptation for resilience.
• This reproductive efficiency could help epaulette sharks maintain populations despite environmental stressors like rising ocean temperatures, benefiting coral reef ecosystems.

Why It Matters: Epaulette sharks defy biological norms by reproducing under stress without extra energy, aiding reef health.