Shark News
Welcome to the biannual issue of Shark News – the official IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Shark Specialist Group (SSG) magazine. Shark News provides a forum for the exchange of information on all aspects of shark, ray, and chimaera conservation matters for SSG members and the general interested audience.
2025
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The 12th edition of Shark News offers a panoramic view of the challenges and triumphs shaping shark, ray, and chimaera conservation today. Spanning nearly 200 pages, it showcases the breadth of scientific discovery, policy work, community action, and innovation that together define the field.
This issue takes us from the Mediterranean Sea to the Mekong River, and from deepwater sharks off Namibia to newly identified nursery grounds in Brazil. Each article reflects the dedication of researchers, conservationists, and local communities whose work is steadily advancing our understanding of these species and the ecosystems they inhabit. The Editorial, by Rima Jabado, sets the tone: conservation is moving faster than ever, and the diversity of stories here is both humbling and energizing. The Q&A series introduces us to inspiring early career scientists working in the United States, the Bahamas, the Dutch Caribbean, and West Africa—each one bringing fresh ideas and approaches to shark and ray science. Recurring themes emerge. Trade is a central focus: a global assessment of manta and devil ray exploitation reveals persistent, dynamic markets for meat and gill plates; Thailand’s fin trade now includes cartilage-based pet snacks; and Indonesia—the world’s largest shark and ray fishery—is explored through a powerful photographic journey. Habitats come into sharp relief. In São Paulo, Brazil, researchers and local communities identified a new nursery area for the Whitespotted Eagle Ray. In the Black Sea, experts map out elasmobranch diversity and conservation challenges, while in the Mekong River, home to record-breaking freshwater rays, community-led solutions are urgently needed. Türkiye’s trawl data revealed a nursery for the Longnose Spurdog, and in Cabo Verde, tagging and capacity building are setting the stage for long-term conservation success. Innovation drives many of the stories: from the development of a necromone repellent that could reduce shark bycatch in tuna purse seine fisheries, to “Pilaut,” a role-playing game allowing fishers to test management scenarios. New technologies—BRUVs, eDNA, and citizen science—are informing everything from CITES listings to rediscoveries of species once thought extinct. The TSHARK platform is uniting shark movement data across the Mediterranean while engaging fishers directly in science. The growth of the Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRA) initiative is another milestone, with delineations now complete for the South American Atlantic and Inland Waters, and preparations underway for the 10th global workshop in Australia. With each new ISRA, we move closer to a comprehensive global map of critical habitats essential to conservation planning. Practical resources also stand out. Newly published identification guides—from gulper sharks to the chondrichthyans of Guatemala—support monitoring and CITES implementation. Updates from the IUCN Red List and features on governance, shark trade, and conservation tools in the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions provide essential knowledge for policy and practice. Shark News Issue 12 is, above all, a testament to what is possible when people, data, and ideas converge. It celebrates rediscoveries, technological breakthroughs, and community-driven solutions, while confronting the ongoing challenges of trade, bycatch, and habitat loss. For scientists, conservationists, educators, and ocean enthusiasts alike, this issue is an invitation to explore the frontlines of shark and ray conservation—and to be inspired by the global efforts shaping a more sustainable future. |
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Welcome to the January 2025 edition of Shark News, where stunning imagery meets groundbreaking research and heartfelt conservation efforts. This issue is a feast for the senses and the intellect, offering readers a captivating blend of breathtaking photography, compelling stories, and critical insights into the lives of sharks, rays, and chimaeras.
At the heart of this edition is an extraordinary showcase of Andy Murch’s incredible journey to photograph every species of shark, ray, and chimaera on the planet. Murch’s work underscores why these animals are worth preserving—not just for their intrinsic beauty but for the critical roles they play in marine ecosystems. His photography reminds us that seeing is indeed believing and that every captured moment is a call to action for their conservation. This issue takes a deep dive into human impacts on these creatures, with a spotlight on shark tourism. Whether it's swimming alongside Whale Sharks in the Philippines or cage-diving with Great Whites, tourism offers unparalleled opportunities for people to connect with marine life. However, as the issue explores, these interactions come with responsibilities. The final factsheet in our "Human Impacts" series emphasizes the importance of well-regulated practices to ensure the safety of both humans and animals. Learn how guidelines and codes of conduct can mitigate negative impacts while fostering awareness and appreciation for these magnificent creatures. The conservation narrative continues with updates on the Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRA) initiative. Over half of the world's oceans are now mapped with designated ISRAs, and the work continues to expand. Explore how this initiative is not just mapping, but also safeguarding vital habitats. Plus, exciting new citizen science opportunities—such as the PADI AWARE Foundation's Global Shark and Ray Census—promise to bring public participation into the fold like never before. This issue highlights breakthroughs in Central America and the Caribbean. Discover the newly identified Shovelbill Shark in Belize, the ambitious market surveys in Guatemala, and the education programs in India aiming to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards. From remote fishing villages to bustling urban classrooms, these efforts show that conservation knows no borders. Finally, Issue 11 celebrates milestones, including the much-anticipated release of the Global Status of Sharks, Rays, and Chimaeras Report. With contributions from over 350 experts worldwide, this comprehensive document provides a critical snapshot of the health of these species and sets the stage for informed policies and actions in the years ahead. |
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2024
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The latest issue of Shark News offers a glimpse into the dynamic world of shark, ray, and chimaera conservation, showcasing global efforts to understand and protect these species. It emphasizes the value of landing and market surveys in assessing shark populations and the impacts of fisheries. The issue highlights fisheries-independent tools that reveal insights into species distribution and habitats.
In the Q&A section, two early-career scientists share their work from Malaysia and The Maldives, using unique sampling methods in contrasting environments. From Southeast Asia, stories explore how surveys shed light on bycatch and the trade of species, both threatened and non-threatened. The issue also covers how data-sharing platforms like eOceans are boosting conservation efforts and spotlights the Sawfish Conservation Society’s global awareness campaigns. Updates from the ReShark project detail efforts to support species beyond the Indo-Pacific Leopard Shark, while climate change’s impact on sharks and rays is explored in a series of informative fact sheets. Unique stories from Namibia reveal first-ever recorded predation of chimaeras by Cape Fur Seals. Cultural features delve into the significance of wedgefishes in China and Indonesia, while conservation work in Indonesia and Bangladesh focuses on sustainable practices and bycatch reduction. The issue emphasizes manta ray conservation in the Chagos Archipelago and area-based management for Australian species, supported by the Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRA) project, which has identified over 400 critical regions. New identification guides from Namibia, North America, and Guatemala are introduced, alongside articles covering shark and ray conservation efforts in Guatemala. Additionally, Don’t Forget the Sharks in the Dark highlights deep-sea shark conservation, while Shark Cartoons in Sri Lanka creatively communicates shark conservation through art. There’s also a sneak peek into the upcoming Global status of sharks, rays, and chimaeras report. Packed with inspiring stories, innovative research, and global collaborations, this issue of Shark News is a must-read for those passionate about marine conservation. Explore the 10th issue of Shark News! |
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Issue 9 of Shark News dives into the latest developments in shark, ray, and chimaera conservation across the globe, featuring the work of scientists, conservationists, and policymakers dedicated to understanding and protecting these vulnerable species. The issue provides an overview of the IUCN Shark Specialist Group’s ongoing efforts to improve conservation strategies, highlighting key updates and achievements.
This edition emphasizes how research and data are driving conservation actions, featuring cutting-edge studies on shark and ray behaviour, population trends, and habitat use. It showcases initiatives aimed at safeguarding critical habitats and reducing bycatch in fisheries, with stories from all corners of the world, from Australia to West Africa. The issue also spotlights community-led conservation projects, underscoring the importance of local engagement in shark and ray conservation. Additionally, the magazine provides insights into international policy updates, including developments under CITES and regional fisheries management organizations, offering a glimpse into how global policy is shaping the future of shark and ray conservation. A diverse range of stories brings attention to emerging issues, such as the impact of climate change on marine species and innovative approaches to improving shark and ray survival. With a focus on collaboration, research, and advocacy, Issue 9 of Shark News is packed with inspiring stories and impactful work, designed to foster a deeper understanding and encourage action to protect sharks, rays, and chimaeras worldwide. Dive into the 9th issue to explore the latest in marine conservation and discover how you can contribute to the global movement to safeguard these remarkable species. |
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2023
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Issue 8 of Shark News brings to light a wealth of stories and insights from the frontlines of shark, ray, and chimaera conservation, featuring global efforts to protect these species. This issue is packed with innovative research, policy updates, and conservation success stories, highlighting the critical work being done to understand and safeguard the world’s most vulnerable marine species.
The magazine delves into the practicalities of implementing conservation strategies, focusing on topics like sustainable fisheries management, reducing bycatch, and safeguarding critical habitats. It covers collaborative efforts between scientists, fishers, and local communities, revealing how combined action can lead to meaningful change in the conservation of sharks and rays. The issue also explores the challenges and opportunities presented by international policy developments, from regional conservation initiatives to global treaties aimed at species protection. Engaging features from various regions bring a unique perspective to the global challenges faced in shark and ray conservation. From the Indian Ocean to the Caribbean, the issue highlights stories of resilience and innovation, demonstrating how tailored strategies are being developed to address regional and species-specific conservation needs. Readers can explore scientific advancements that are enhancing our understanding of shark and ray behavior and movement, as well as how these insights are being translated into tangible conservation outcomes. With a blend of scientific research, policy updates, and on-the-ground conservation stories, Issue 8 of Shark News offers a comprehensive look at the ongoing efforts to protect these extraordinary marine creatures. Dive into this issue to be inspired by the dedication and innovation driving shark, ray, and chimaera conservation worldwide. |
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In Issue 7 of Shark News, we acknowledge that there were significant wins for sharks in 2022, such as the quotas for Shortfin Makos in the South Atlantic or the protection of the Greenland Shark in the Northwest Atlantic, and the listing of 104 shark and ray species on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES).
We continue our interviews with three more SSG early career scientists from different regions. In a new series of articles, we look at the human impacts on sharks and rays, the first of which relates to overfishing, the biggest threat to this group, and provides an overview of impacts from industrial, artisanal, and recreational fisheries. This issue includes news from around the world, including from the recent Sharks International conference, the Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRAs), and the Shark and Ray Recovery Initiative (SARRI). We feature two stunning portfolios: Laurent Ballesta's 700 Sharks in the Night showcases the feeding aggregations of Grey Reef Sharks in Fakarava, French Polynesia, and the PangeaSeed Foundation's Sea Walls celebrates 10 years of street art or 'Artivism'. |
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2022
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In Issue 6 of Shark News, we feature a report on how to improve synergies between Regional Fisheries Bodies and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES). This information is particularly relevant as new proposals to list sharks on CITES are currently being evaluated. However, several new initiatives have been launched, shifting from the traditional fisheries or trade management focus of conservation.
Andy Cornish from WWF introduces us to SARRI – the Shark and Ray Recovery Initiative – where sites have been chosen around the world to work with coastal communities, local partners, and experts to secure shark recovery zones. Our feature story is once again related to Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRA) as we move closer to making this a reality. With core funding from the Shark Conservation Fund, it is exciting to share how this approach can complement other similar area-based biodiversity and seascape approaches. This issue also showcases articles about Shark Week and its relationship with scientists, the Shark Alley exhibit at the Two Oceans Aquarium, beachgoers and their relationship and understanding of Sharks, exciting news from Guinea Bissau, the first record of a Saw Shark from Namibia, an exciting Q&A with three early-career SSG members, several publications, and many more stories. |
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First, a team from Dalhousie University introduces us to a global project being undertaken to uncover the trade in shark meat. We share the news of the publication of a three-volume guide series on CITES-listed species that Debra Abercrombie and Rima Jabado worked on over the last few years to support the implementation of trade controls and which will allow the identification of whole sharks, trunks, and dried products (fins, rostra, and gill plates). We have a note to emphasize the detrimental impact of trade on South American Freshwater Stingrays and highlight how CITES can ensure this trade can be regulated. And we have results from a new study showcasing trade data which indicates that European Union Member States provide almost a third of shark-related fin imports into Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan.
Our feature story is about Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRA), a project we have recently embarked on that I am convinced will make a difference for shark conservation. The importance of delineating such critical habitat for sharks and their contribution to species conservation is highlighted in a story on Angel Sharks in the Mediterranean and echoes the feedback we have received about this initiative. Other stories show how consolidating available data can further our knowledge of species distribution of Bull Sharks and how engaging with recreational anglers, although an activity that might seem controversial for many, can be a valuable source of data and contribute to supporting fisheries management decisions. We highlight more work by dedicated and inspiring educators working hard in The Bahamas and Brazil to ensure the next generation cares about the marine environment and can become advocates for sharks. |
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This issue includes stories of hope but also stories that should be sounding alarm bells. Legislative amendments in Bangladesh to protect 23 shark and ray species highlight how important it is for organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Society to work on the ground and engage with governments. These commitments to protect species are often only possible when national-level data are available on species diversity and interactions with fisheries. So it’s great to see projects being completed or taking off in places like Sri Lanka, Iran, and Angola, where only a few years ago, little to no information was available on sharks and rays. In Sri Lanka, there are now data suggesting declines in the numbers of Mantas and Devil Rays landed, which can support ongoing discussions with the government on conservation measures for these species. Through trawl surveys in Iran, a Critically Endangered butterfly ray thought to be Possibly Extinct across its known range was rediscovered, bringing hope for its conservation. In Angola, work has begun with local communities to understand the utilization of sharks and rays and the impact of artisanal fisheries on landed species. Working with communities and the public can bridge knowledge gaps for scientists while fostering awareness of conservation issues. We have a great story from questionnaire-based surveys on public attitudes to sharks and how culture and history can shape attitudes around the world.
Our feature story on freshwater sharks and rays allows us to delve into the little-known world of this unique group of animals. It highlights their plight from human activities, particularly urban development, and the importance of undertaking research and raising their profile. This species group requires immediate attention, and I hope we can work more on freshwater species over the next few years, particularly the South American Freshwater Stingrays, many of which are listed on Appendix III of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES). With the next CITES Conference of Parties less than a year away, we wanted to share information on its rules of procedure and our role as the IUCN SSC Shark Specialist Group when engaging with such international treaties. We also focus on how art can contribute to improving our understanding of sharks, rays, and chimaeras from the fantastic illustrations drawn by Marc Dando that showcase the beauty and diversity of this group. We recognize the importance of having identification materials to improve data collection in fisheries and trade and inspire future generations to learn about these species through the development of species brochures in Chile. But we understand that capacity building is not only about sharing technical knowledge. It can be inspiring students to care and learn more or engaging with women in small-island states to empower them and teach them about marine conservation and the value of species conservation by teaching them how to swim. |
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2021
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The conversation around extinction was often shifting towards resilience, recovery, and solutions to the challenges we face when working in this field. Sadly, in the new paper titled ‘Overfishing drives over one-third of all sharks and rays towards a global extinction crisis’, we report that it is now estimated that 37% of sharks, rays, and chimaeras are threatened with extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Categories and Criteria. With that, we now also have the first three species of sharks and rays that are flagged as Critically Endangered – Possibly Extinct.
In this third issue of Shark News, you can read about how scientists and government entities in Indonesia have mobilized very quickly to understand and improve the status of rhino rays; how in Brazil, what started as a small project is making waves with coastal fishing communities who are now voluntarily releasing a Critically Endangered species of guitarfish; and how in Belize, fishers are currently working with scientists to provide information on their catches and inform policy. We delve into IUCN’s ‘Green Status of Species’, a new global standard to measure how close a species is to be fully ecologically functional across its range and how much it has recovered due to conservation action. Along with other stories from fieldwork in Ghana, Greece, and Malaysia, we have more good news from Australia, where only 12% of species are considered threatened, showcasing how fisheries management can work. Finally, the WCC is also when all IUCN Specialist Groups are dissolved and re-established and where so many decisions related to the functioning and program priorities of the IUCN are finalized. |
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This second issue is even more packed with incredible stories. It is loaded with information on projects being carried out across the world. The stories are inspiring, hopeful, and engaging from using art as a tool for social change and education on sharks and rays, interviewing the public in Hong Kong about the shark fin trade and consumption patterns, establishing a network of researchers across the European range of Angel Sharks and developing regional action plans, collaborating across borders to save a Critically Endangered Sand Tiger Shark population in South America, using fisher knowledge to understand the status of sawfishes in Sri Lanka, organizing a regional symposium to bring together scientists and find synergies across research and management actions, exploring shark fisheries in Albania and Kenya, and studying Silky Sharks in the Atlantic Ocean.
Don’t miss out on other news such as the first record of a juvenile Megamouth Shark from China, what shark species are listed on the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and what that means, an update on the beautiful ‘River Jewels’ – the South American Freshwater Stingrays, the hunt for the East Atlantic Pygmy Devil Ray off West Africa, information on how shark liver oil is being used, the upcoming release of the much-awaited new edition of Sharks of the World, and a new book on shark biology and conservation. You will also find an invitation to take part in a training course on the human dimensions of shark conservation, information on upcoming IUCN Red List of Threatened Species assessments and how you can get involved, and the establishment of a new Working Group on Marine Historical Ecology. |
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Welcome to the first quarterly issue of Shark News of 2021, the official IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Shark Specialist Group (SSG) newsletter! A community of scientists, researchers, and policy makers zealously working together to conserve sharks, rays, and chimaeras through the SSG and beyond. We are a growing community with over 240 members from 86 countries and territories but still a small one relative to groups worldwide that work on conserving other marine megafauna like sea turtles or cetaceans.
This first issue of the newsletter focuses on acknowledging the work accomplished by previous leaders and members while introducing the new SSG team and structure. We also have a feature story on sawfishes showcasing what scientists are doing to conserve one of the last remaining populations off Florida in the United States. We also take a closer look at some of the work members are doing across the Mediterranean Sea, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Russia. Shark News was the official SSG newsletter from June 1994 to October 2004. It was a testament to Sarah Fowler’s, one of the founding members of the SSG and former Chair, dedication and passion for sharks. We have decided to revive it to provide a forum for the exchange of information on all aspects of shark, ray, and chimaera conservation matters for SSG members and the general interested audience. |
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