About the SSG

The IUCN SSC Shark Specialist Group (SSG) was established by the IUCN Species Survival Commission in 1991. The Group provides leadership for the conservation of threatened species and populations of all chondrichthyan fishes. There are 171 SSG members from 55 countries distributed among 12 ocean-region subgroups.

Mission To promote the long-term conservation of the world's sharks and related species (the skates, rays and chimaeras), effective management of their fisheries and habitats, and, where necessary, the recovery of their populations.

Network and Structure The Group appoints its members by invitation. They are volunteer experts who are actively involved in elasmobranch research and fisheries management, marine conservation and policy formulation. The work of the Group is led by two Co-Chairs and an Executive Committee. Area Coordinators appointed for Central and South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia help to improve communications between regional groups in these areas and strengthen the network. Regional Vice-Chairs are appointed to co-ordinate work of the Group around the world and to provide a link between members, the Executive Committee, Co-Chairs, staff and the SSC. A Global cross-cutting working group includes people working on international issues and whose knowledge covers several regions. To learn about the SSG’s regional structure see our Regional Pages. Anyone interested in contributing to the work of the SSG should contact us, indicating their field of expertise. Also see the SSG’s Membership Policy.