Global report identifies critical habitats for migratory sharks and rays

© Nick Polanszky | Ocean Image Bank

A report released today by the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Shark Specialist Group, with support from the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Climate Action and Nuclear Safety and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) identifies more than 750 Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRAs) worldwide, providing the clearest picture to date of the habitats essential for the survival of threatened migratory sharks and rays.

SOURCE | IUCN Species Survival Commission

Drawing on the expertise of over 1,330 scientists from over 100 countries, the Ocean Travellers Report synthesizes decades of research to map reproductive sites, migratory corridors, feeding grounds, and aggregation hotspots across 70% of the global ocean, including coastal waters, island chains, continental shelves, offshore seamounts, and areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ).
Sharks and rays are the second most threatened group of vertebrates on Earth, with more than one-third of species at risk of extinction due to overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change. This report provides an indispensable scientific tool for governments, regional bodies, and ocean managers seeking to integrate biodiversity needs into marine spatial planning, fisheries policy, environmental impact assessment, and area-based conservation.
ISRAs do not create legal protection, but they offer a globally standardised scientific foundation that can guide countries in meeting commitments under CMS, the Sharks MOU, the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Read the full press release here.