Shark conservation is the protection and management of shark populations to ensure their long-term survival and ecological balance in the marine ecosystem. This has become increasingly important as many shark species face jaws-dropping threats such as overfishing, bycatch (the unwanted fish and other animals captured in commercial nets while fishing), habitat degradation, and climate change (yes, again… it fin-fluences a lot more than you think!). Shark conservation efforts aim to regulate and reduce these threats and promote sustainable management of shark populations.
Why are they important? Sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems as predators at the top of the food chain. They control the populations of their prey and help maintain the health of the food chain. Removing sharks from the ecosystem can result in a cascading effect that disrupts the balance and negatively impacts other species and habitats. In addition, sharks contribute to Earth's biodiversity, with over 500 known species worldwide. Their conservation helps preserve the overall biodiversity and health of our oceans. This is why at MANOA we believe it was really important to dedicate a post to the conservation of these fintastic creatures.
Sharks also have economic value, as they are important for ecotourism, especially in areas where shark diving is popular: Costa Rica, French Polynesia, Philippines, Fiji, and Belize. They can benefit local fisheries by controlling prey species that may damage fish stocks. Furthermore, studying sharks provides valuable information about their biology, behavior, and role in marine ecosystems, which can inform conservation and management strategies.
Do humans hunt for sharks? The history of shark hunting dates back centuries, with different cultures targeting these marine predators for various reasons. Over time, the motivations and methods for hunting sharks have evolved, leading to a significant impact on their populations and increased awareness of the need for conservation efforts.
More than 30% of all known shark species are classified as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered
In early human history, indigenous coastal communities hunted sharks for food, tools, and cultural purposes. Shark teeth were used as weapons and cutting tools, while their skin was used for sanding and polishing wooden objects. Shark bones and cartilage were also utilized for crafting tools and ceremonial items. In some cultures, sharks were considered to possess spiritual power, and their body parts were used in rituals and as symbols of protection.
During the 20th century, the demand for shark products increased dramatically, unfortunately leading to the commercialization of shark hunting. The growth of industrial fishing techniques, such as longlines and drift nets, enabled large-scale shark hunting to meet the rising demand for shark fins, meat, and liver oil. Shark fins became highly demanded for their use in shark fin soup, a traditional Chinese dish considered a luxury item, a product still considered a luxury meal in China nowadays. Shark liver oil, rich in vitamins A and D, was used in cosmetics, lubricants, and as a supplement. Additionally, shark meat became more popular as a food source in some regions.
The expansion of shark hunting, combined with the slow reproductive rate and late maturity of many shark species, resulted in overfishing and population declines. As a result, numerous shark species have become endangered or critically endangered, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), more than 30% of all known shark species are classified as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered. This includes species like the scalloped hammerhead shark, the oceanic whitetip shark, and various sawfish species. Another study published in the journal Nature in 2021 revealed that the global abundance of oceanic sharks and rays has declined by 71% since 1970. This decline is mainly attributed to overfishing, with three-quarters of oceanic shark and ray species now threatened with extinction.
In recent years, awareness of the ecological importance of sharks and the threats they face has grown. Many countries have implemented regulations to manage shark fisheries and protect vulnerable species, while international treaties and organizations work to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Additionally, several shark conservation foundations and organizations focus on protecting these species and their habitats, such as the Shark Trust, Save Our Seas Foundation, Project AWARE, and WildAid.
As the history of shark hunting demonstrates, human activity has significantly impacted shark populations, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to ensure the survival of these magnificent creatures and the overall health of our oceans. So let's not wave goodbye to these fincredible animals, and instead work together to preserve their habitats and promote sustainable practices. After all, a healthy ocean with thriving shark populations is something worth sinking our teeth into.
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