News

A new study shows strong evidence of anti-tumour activity in the genome of the Shortfin Mako. Researchers are also looking into biological markers to identify populations in Atlantic and Indian Oceans. This is key to understanding population groups and informing fisheries policy. Still heavily overfished in the Atlantic, Mako Sharks remain a key focal species in our No Limits? campaign.

Despite a ban on all shark fishing in the Egyptian Red Sea, fishers continue to fish sharks. And fish markets continue to sell shark products. Lack of enforced management continues. And a disputing interest between the value of sharks for ecotourism vs. value of shark products.

Scientists confirm that nursery areas were commonly used by Megaladon Sharks in a range of locations. Fossilized teeth of juvenile Megaladons have been uncovered from Atlantic, Caribbean and Pacific ocean basins.

There's long standing debate over the impacts of ecotourism on shark behaviour. This article explores the influences of bait use by shark cage diving boats on White Sharks. Researchers are now developing recommendations to improve diving activities and reduce the likelihood of incidents between sharks and cages. Helping towards a harmonious future for these sharks and the ecotourism sector.

A young girl in Tasmania has rescued a Draughtboard Shark after it became stranded in a rockpool. Receding waters from rock pools, particularly after spring tides, can cause some marine life to become trapped or stranded. While some species are adapted for intertidal life, others may become stressed in a constrained environment. But, a note of caution, marine life is usually best left undisturbed.

The UK is championing stricter protections for mako sharks at the Atlantic fisheries meeting (ICCAT). In line with scientific advice, they’re co-sponsoring a proposal for a ban on landing these important endangered species. Recent media reports the UK Minister voicing disappointment over lack of consensus (so far). But negotiations continue this week. Go to sharkleague.org to find out more.

Angel Shark Project: Libya has been launched! We're pleased to be collaborating with Libyan researchers and stakeholders, as well as a host of international colleagues. Three species of angel shark inhabit Mediterranean waters. All of which are Critically Endangered. This project aims to promote accurate reporting of angel shark catch in Libya, to help better understand and ultimately protect these species. Complimenting the SubRAP process which is developing tailored actions across the region.

Oceanic Whitetip Sharks are an iconic species to encounter. Once common throughout tropical and temperate seas, sadly, are now Critically Endangered. Overfishing of these sharks for their meat and highly prized fins has driven their populations to the brink. This article describes more, reminding scuba divers to treat this amazing shark with respect.

A member of the public was surprised to spot a fin amongst the reeds whilst on the look out for other wildlife in Cape Cod Bay, Massachusetts. The video footage allowed scientists to confirm the sighting to be a Blue Shark. These pelagic sharks are usually found further offshore. Scientists speculate this shark “took a wrong turn” during its migration route.

Scientists are working to reintroduce Zebra Sharks in Indonesia. To areas where their populations have seen dramatic declines. The project first hopes to rear Zebra Shark eggcases in aquariums. Before, shipping them to the protected archipelago of Raja Ampat. Here the eggcases will be further reared in ‘grow out pens’. And the newly hatched sharks will be tagged and released within the designed MPAs.