WATCH: How aquarium released ragged-tooth shark into Cape waters after 200km road trip

The Two Oceans Aquarium team walk ragged-tooth shark Gen to the ocean in her stretcher.

The Two Oceans Aquarium team looking after ragged-tooth shark Gen experienced an emotional moment recently when they successfully released her into the ocean.

The project required detailed planning - not only did Gen have to be temporarily moved from the shark exhibit into a special unit where she could undergo the necessary health checks, but she then had to be transported around 200 kilometres by road to Struisbaai in the Overberg region.

The Aquarium releases these sharks here as a portion of the existing wild population migrates along the Agulhas ridge off the coast of Struisbaai towards the warmer waters of Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Ahead of her road trip, this special cargo was carefully moved into a secure chamber on a large truck.

Ragged-tooth shark Gen before being moved onto a truck on her journey back to the ocean. Image: Two Oceans Aquarium

The shark was checked by a vet en route, and accompanied at every stage of the journey by staff members to ensure a calm and safe return to her wild home, says the Aquarium.

The team walked Gen into the surf at Struisbaai on a specially designed stretcher, where they say she immediately showed signs of readiness to enter the ocean.

"Taking their cue from Gen as she pushed against the constraints of the stretcher, the team released her, with two divers keeping a watchful eye to monitor her initial open ocean behaviour."

Two Oceans Aquarium

Veterinarian Dr Jenkinson declared the release a success, saying that Gen had a 'good and strong response' before being freed.

"She swam off quickly into the ocean with the Aquarium team watching proudly."

Two Oceans Aquarium

The shark was fitted with a tag so that her movements can be tracked as she moves along the coast.

Watch the video of Gen's special journey below: