News

In 2019, a scientist collecting data for Iran’s first shark and ray conservation program made an exciting discovery amongst the scraps of a fisherman’s shrimp haul– a Tentacled Butterfly Ray. Last recorded off Pakistan in 1986, this ray was thought to have been wiped out across its range and was listed as Critically Endangered, possibly extinct, by the IUCN Red List. Scientists have since recorded 367 Tentacled Butterfly Ray’s from 96 surveys carried on shrimp hauls over the space of a year. It’s suspected southern Iran may be the last stronghold for this ray. This rediscovery provides an opportunity for scientists to study this little-known ray, and work with fishers to reduce its incidental capture before it’s really too late.

Of the five known species of sawfish, three can be found in Bangladesh, with the Largetooth Sawfish being the most widely reported. Once considered to be abundant in the Bay of Bengal, numbers have declined drastically over the years. Now a team of scientists, conservationists and artists are working to turn the tide against sawfish loss in the region through the "Save Sawfish—the friend of the seas" campaign. It aims to raise awareness of their ecological importance through education and training of fishers, traders, and consumers. Whilst also continuing to research sawfish populations and obtain the necessary scientific data on which to base future conservation actions.

Ecuador have revealed plans to expand the marine reserve around the Galapagos Islands by 60,000 sq km. Announced at COP 26 Climate Change Conference, it’s hoped the expansion will make the reserve more resilient to climate change. Whilst also providing additional protection to migratory species that travel through the reserve like the Whale Shark, and species with important nursery grounds in the reserve like the Blacktip Shark and hammerhead sharks.

Fish chaffing. What is it? And why on earth would a fish intentionally rub up against their predator? Whilst they’re known to rub up against inanimate objects like sand and rocks. A new study has documented the same behaviour with sharks. Scientists recorded 47 instances of fish rubbing themselves against a shark’s skin. They even spotted numerous Silky Sharks rubbing up against a Whale Shark. Whilst the Silky Sharks were in no danger of being preyed upon by the Whale Shark, many of the other encounters were between species that have predator-prey relationships. It’s thought this behaviour may play a role in removing parasites and other irritants from the fish’s skin.

This week has seen the return of the European Elasmobranch Association (EEA) Conference after a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic. Hosted by the Dutch Elasmobranch Association (NEV) in Leiden, Netherlands, this annual event provides a great opportunity for shark scientists, conservationists, and advocates to unite. Ali Hood, Director of Conservation at the Shark Trust provided the keynote presentation on the opening day of the conference. Sharing stories and lessons learned from 20 years involved in shark and ray conservation and encouraging delegates to #MakeTime4Makos. It’s nearly over for another year but check out the highlights at the EEA Conference Twitter account.

Scientists researching White Sharks off the East Coast of the US have tagged what they believe to be the smallest White Shark ever included in this kind of study. Measuring 1.09 m, it’s thought this female shark was just a few weeks old at capture. Eight sharks were tagged as part of the study, a partnership between Atlantic Shark Institute (ASI) and O’Seas Conservation Foundation (OCF). Acoustic transmitters will allow researchers to track the movements of these sharks for up to 10 years. Allowing them to gain a better idea of seasonal movements, and important areas for reproduction including nursery areas. Their findings will have significant implications for conservation management of this Vulnerable shark.

Nosy Be Island, Madagascar is an internationally renowned hotspot for Whale Sharks. With many tourists flocking there between September and December when they come to the island to feed. A recent study has estimated Whale Shark tourism accounts for $1.5 million of island economy over this three-month period. With tourists visiting specifically for a Whale Shark encounter spending 55% more overall than casual tourists. Despite their importance to Nosy Be Island, Whale Sharks have no formal protection in Madagascan waters. This study highlighted overwhelming support from tourists and operators for official protection of these sharks from increasing tourist activities, and existing threats including fishing, shipping collisions and pollution.

It’s no surprise, marine animals are both costly and challenging to study. But scientists are continuing to use social media to support research into different species. From Bottlenose Dolphins in Northern Ireland, to turtles in New Caledonia, and Whale Sharks around the world.

The Wildbook for Whale Sharks utilises the well-placed diving and snorkelling community to learn more about this Endangered shark. Sighting’s data submitted by citizen scientists is made available to conservation authorities to help map global Whale Shark populations and learn more about migration routes. Allowing scientists and authorities to support ongoing work, whilst also engaging the public.

Volunteers from the Alderney Wildlife Trust have captured some footage of a ‘secretive’ Nursehound swimming among seaweed. Listed as Near Threatened in Europe, Nursehounds are considered locally abundant in some areas of the Northeast Atlantic, but declines have been noted in the Mediterranean. Check out the video footage and for more information check out our Nursehound ID Guide.