Viral stingray dies at North Carolina aquarium

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (WSPA) — The viral stingray Charlotte, who was pregnant and then diagnosed with a rare reproductive disease, died Sunday at The Aquarium & Shark Lab.

“We are sad to announce, after continuing treatment with her medical care team and specialist, our ray Charlotte passed away,” The Aquarium & Shark Lab announced on Facebook

Charlotte went viral in February after her handlers discovered that she was pregnant, even though she had not been in a tank with male stingrays in the last eight years.

“Yes, our stingray Charlotte is about to be a mom!” the aquarium said on Instagram. “Pups are either the result of parthenogenesis or cross mating with a small shark.”

In late May, the aquarium said Charlotte had developed a rare reproductive disease that has negatively impacted her reproductive system.

The aquarium will remain temporarily closed while the staff cares for other fish and animals.

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