News

Another new sighting! Broadnose Sevengill and Bluntnose Sixgill sharks have been observed around the Galápagos for the first time ever. These sightings provide scientists with important information about the range and habitat preferences of these species.

Megamouth Sharks have been reported in Peruvian waters for the first time after being caught by accident in small-scale fisheries. These records emphasise the need for continued monitoring to establish the prevalence of this species and their vulnerability to encounters with fisheries.

A genetic tagging study has revealed that, like many holidaymakers, Basking Sharks make annual trips with extended family to familiar locations that serve their favoured fare. In their case zooplankton. Locations with lots of zooplankton attract Basking Sharks from across the Atlantic. Much like popular holiday destinations attract humans.

Despite long promoting science-based shark conservation, the EU and US once again served as obstacles to urgently needed protections for mako sharks at Atlantic high-seas annual management meeting (ICCAT).

Canada, Senegal, and the UK proposed a ban on retention of seriously overfished North Atlantic shortfin makos. As ICCAT scientists have long advised. The proposal earned support from Taiwan and Gabon. But, the EU and US refused to give up on exceptions for continuing to land the endangered species. As a result, this year’s mako negotiations end with no new conservation measures.

The next opportunity for Atlantic-wide action is July 2021. ICCAT scientists estimate this population could take five decades to recover. Even if fishing were to stop immediately. Lack of consensus allows unsustainable fishing on this shared population to continue.

Wedgefish snouts are sold as a local delicacy in Singapore. As one of the most threatened elasmobranchs, the presence of Wedgefish snouts on markets, as reported in this research paper gives cause for concern. As CITES Appendix II listed species, trade of Wedgefishes requires permits and control measures. Monitoring imports and controlling the trade of threatened species is key to help inform further management measures.

The latest round of IUCN Red List Updates have been published! Including another 69 sharks, skate and ray from the South West Atlantic and around Patagonia! This new information is key to help make informed conservation decisions.

Fantastic news! Last week the Tunisian government issued an interim ban on the fishing and trading of 21 shark, skate and ray species. While they finalise urgent amends to national legislation. This action was taken in response to a letter we led on expressing our concerns over the recent landings of two Critically Endangered White Sharks. But also reflects years of conservation work by the Trust and our partners. It's wonderful to see all Mediterranean countries now honouring the regional shark measures. A huge win for shark conservation!

The government of Columbia have announced a ban on shark fishing within its waters. Any form of artisanal or commercial fishing for sharks will be prohibited. Columbia is a hotspot for biodiversity, but has been heavily impacted by human activity over the years. Sustainable management is key. This announcement could be a step towards shark conservation efforts in South America.