News

Endangered Shortfin Mako Sharks in the North Atlantic are seriously overfished. Makos will be taking centre stage in the 2020 talks of ICCAT, the Atlantic high-seas management body. And negotiations are kicking off today. Canada has already proposed catch limits that follow the science. But with COVID-19 related delays, continued overfishing by European vessels, and exceptionally lenient and complex counterproposals from the US and EU - will these sharks be given a chance for recovery?

Using the latest DNA technology, scientists from Florida International University can pinpoint the region where a shark fin originated from. 85% of shark fins sampled from markets in Hong Kong and China have been genetically traced back to sharks originating in the Eastern Pacific. The samples commonly included endangered pelagic thresher sharks, as well as hammerheads. This research is shedding light on the associated fisheries at the source of the shark fin supply chain. And so is helping towards informing better fisheries management and protective measures for sharks.

Nearly a quarter of UK waters are covered by Marine Protected Areas (MPA). But an MPA doesn’t necessarily mean ‘no fishing’. So, what does it mean for sharks? Like other migratory animals, sharks don’t adhere to lines on a map. And many are still at risk of overfishing, whether that’s inside or outside the MPA. Sadly, there’s been concerning reports this week about levels of fishing activity in offshore MPAs.

The use of drum lines and nets as part of Australia’s ‘shark control’ programs is a highly controversial issue. This article describes a new documentary that'll be shedding light on these outdated practices, which impacts on sharks and other wildlife. And recommending smarter, non-invasive technology - such as drone monitoring - to come to the forefront.

Amazing footage of a Critically Endangered Flapper Skate hatching from its eggcase! After 18 months of diligent care in captivity, this rare skate is now inhabiting the Sound of Jura Marine Protected Area!

A ‘white’ shark has been spotted off the British Isles. No! Not a White Shark! But a ‘white’ Tope Shark. An angler got the surprise of his life when he caught (and released) what appears to be an albino Tope. Click Here to check out this unique shark.

New video footage! It turns out Gray Sharks have found a sneaky way to grab a quick meal. They shadow Whitetip Sharks as they hunt around the coral for fish, and then swoop in and steal their prey!

The population of Whale Sharks in Mafia Island Marine Park, Tanzania has increased! A new report from WWF says that Whale Shark numbers have increased from around 100 to 206 individuals over 7 years! In part demonstrating the benefits of effective government action. And promoting the value of eco-tourism for Whale Sharks.

Excellent news to come out of Australia! The Queensland Government has introduced a new law in a key East Coast fishery. Any sharks caught are now required to be brought back to shore with their ‘fins naturally attached’. This is acknowledged globally as best practice for finning regulation.