Sharks died while being transferred between aquariums because they were traumatised by being put in cold water.Marine experts launched an investigation after three black tipped reef sharks died at Hunstanton Sea Life Sanctuary 10 days ago.

Sharks died while being transferred between aquariums because they were traumatised by being put in cold water.

Marine experts launched an investigation after three black tipped reef sharks died at Hunstanton Sea Life Sanctuary 10 days ago.

Their enquiries looked into the procedures followed during the transport of the three sharks from a sister attraction in Great Yarmouth and included a full post mortem examination.

In a statement last night, the cpmpany said: “The evidence collected suggests that the cause of death was trauma arising from introduction to water 2°C below the recommended lower threshold for this species, possibly exacerbated by their recent move.

“Our investigation has shown that a very experienced and dedicated member of staff, with a previously exemplary record, made a very uncharacteristic error. Action has been taken to ensure this cannot happen again, including a retraining and assessment programme for the relevant personnel.

“Everyone connected with Sea Life was shocked by the tragedy of the three Hunstanton sharks. While in no way seeking to diminish the seriousness of this incident however, it is perhaps pertinent to point out that during the past week a total of 2,100 sea creatures, including several tropical sharks, were successfully introduced to a new Sea Life development in Billund, Denmark, without a single casualty.”