Shark News

Welcome to the quarterly 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.

2024

Shark News
​Issue 10 | September 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!
Content:
​​​4 Editorial – A note from the Chair
6 Eulogy for Leonard J. V. Compagno
8 Q&A with Early Career Scientists within the SSG
18 Sharks and the Commission on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR)
22 Shark Spotlight : Ningaloo Maskray (Neotrygon ningalooensis)
32 The Impacts of Climate Change on Sharks and Rays
46 ReShark – An International, Collective Effort to Recover Threatened Sharks and Rays around the World
60 Bringing Sharks into Focus
70 ISRAs of the Western Indian Ocean
78 Call for ISRA proposals: South America and Inland waters
80 eOceans – Scaling Up Shark and Ray Science and Conservation
84 Sawfish Conservation Society : Bringing Global Awareness to a Critical Species
90 TrackdAT – Tracking the Research that Moves Sharks and Rays
96 CMS Acts to Protect Sharks and Rays
104 White Shark Global
106 The Global Status Report
108 First Records of Chimaeras as Prey for Cape Fur Seals in Namibia
112 Captor and Verse - Wedgefish Exploitation Portrayed in Three Poems
122 Protecting the Rhino Rays of Karimunjawa Archipelago
130 Protecting Hammerhead Sharks in Bangladesh
138 Reef Manta Ray Conservation in the Chagos Archipelago
146 Don't Forget the Sharks in the Dark 
156 Management Solutions to Protect and Recover Australia’s Threatened Endemic Sharks and Rays
164 All Sawfish now Critically Endangered but Sustained Conservation Efforts can Lead to Recovery
168 Sharks and Rays in Guatemala
174 Shark Cartoons in Sri Lanka
180 Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras of Namibia - An Identification Guide
182 Field Guide to the Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras of the East Coast of North America
184 Funding Opportunities
186 Upcoming Meetings
187 Our Sponsors and Supporters
Shark News
​Issue 09 | January 2024
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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.
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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.
Content:
​4 Editorial: A note from the Chair
6 Q&A with Early Career Scientists within the SSG
16 Sharks and the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC)
20 Shark Spotlight : Horn Shark (Heterodontus francisci)
30 The Impacts of Pollution on Sharks and Rays
46 Resharking Leopards in Raja Ampat : The StAR Project
68 The Great Eggcase Hunt : A Global Citizen Science Project
74 Amazing Shark and Ray Science Discoveries from 2023
80 The Important Shark and Ray Areas of the Mediterranean and Black Seas
90 Call for Proposals for Preliminary Areas of Interest : Asia & Polar Waters
94 Establishing a Method to Identify and Prioritise Areas for the Protection of Angelshark in the Canary Islands
108 Main Historical Steps of Fishing Research in the Mediterranean Targeted to Sharks and Rays
116 New Plan to Save One of the World’s Most Threatened Rays from Extinction
124 A First Glimpse into the Life of the Pacific Nurse Shark
130 Local Ecological Knowledge to Support Shark Conservation in the Central Caribbean of Panama
138 Project Lemon Aid : Students + Sharks + Science = Success
148 New Initiatives in Elasmobranchs Research in the Sultanate of Oman
156 Putting Sharks in the Public Spotlight: on the Celebration of Shark Awareness Day 2023 in Iran
162 Shark Safeguards : Elevating EU Controls on Shark Trade
166 IUCN Species Survival Commission Statement on Shark Control Programs and Shark Culls
170 Wildlife and Ocean Fest : Dive into Conservation Celebrations
174 What the SSG has done in 2023
178 Upcoming Meetings
180 Funding Opportunities
182 Our Sponsors and Supporters

2023

Shark News
​Issue 08 | July 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.
Content:
​4 Editorial: A note from the Chair
6 Q&A with Early Career Scientists within the SSG
14 Sharks and the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)
26 Shark Spotlight: Castello’s Apron Numbfish
28 The Impacts of Habitat Degradation and Loss on Sharks and Rays
40 Where Land Meets Sea: The Intertidal as an Important Habitat for Sharks and Rays
44 When Management Works: Conservation Success and Challenges for Sharks and Rays in Western Atlantic
50 Writing Retreat on the Global Status Report
52 Workshop Series on the Conservation Planning of Pelagic Sharks and Rays
58 The Important Shark and Ray Areas of the Central and South American Pacific
68 New Shark and Ray Materials are available from Thailand
72 Chinese Scientists Tag Blue Sharks in the Tropical Central and Western Pacific
76 Sharks Always Amaze Us: On the Rediscovery and Redescription of the Critically Endangered Tentacled Butterfly Ray
80 Peaceful Encounters with Eagle Rays
86 Maugean Skate: Skating Towards Extinction?
94 Art as a Passion
98 IUCN SSG Human Dimensions Working Group Online Workshop
100 DNA Taxonomy, Molecular Phylogeny and Population Genetics of Cartilaginous Fishes
102 Funding Opportunities
103 Upcoming Meetings
104 Our Sponsors and Supporters​
Content:
​4 Editorial: A note from the Chair  
6 Q&A with Early Career Scientists within the SSG
14 Sharks and the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC)
22 Shark Spotlight: Human’s Whaler Shark
24 Sharkipedia 
28 The Impacts of Overfishing on Sharks and Rays
48 A Historic Win for Sharks and Rays
56 The Future of Shark Conservation is Collaboration
60 First Workshop identifies 73 candidate Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRAs)
62 Writing Retreat on the sideline of Sharks International 2022 in Valencia, Spain
66 Electro Shield System (ESS) - A Shark and Ray Bycatch Mitigation Technology
72 Have you ever seen these Sharks in the Persian seas?
84 Microanatomy of Shark Skin as a Novel Method to identify Elasmobranch Carcasses from Illegal Catches
90 Conservation Status of Chondrichthyans in the Adriatic
94 700 Sharks in the night – Shark Instincts, Ocean Moments
146 A Drop of Paint Can Create an Ocean of Change – Celebrating a Decade of Art and Activism
169 Funding Opportunities
170 Upcoming Meetings
171 Our Sponsors and Supporters

2022
Content:
4 Editorial: A note from the Chair
6 Q&A with Early Career Scientists within the SSG
16 Sharks and the SPAW Protocol in the Wider Caribbean Region
28 Shark Spotlight: Paddlenose Spookfish
30 Interactive Shark Alley Exhibit opens at Two Oceans Aquarium
36 Face-to-face with the world’s most Dangerous Predator
40 Sharks International 2022 – Only three months to go!
42 The IUCN Green Status of Species Webinar
46 Global Genetic Reference Database of eDNA Barcodes
48 Experts Consider Shark Week a 'Missed Opportunity'
54 Preventing Shark and Ray Extinctions is Not Enough
60 Future Oceans : Priority Areas for Biodiversity Conservation
80 The First Record of a Saw Shark from Namibia
82 Tracking threatened sharks and rays in West Africa
86 Conservation, Fisheries, Trade and Management Status of CITES-Listed Sharks
92 The Ecological Significance of Sharks
94 All About Sawfishes
100 Diagnostic Book on Sawfishes in Costa Rica
110 Funding Opportunities
112 Upcoming Meetings
113 Our Sponsors and Supporters​
Content:
4 Editorial: A note from the Chair
6 Q&A with Michelle Heupel: Making waves in a sea of data
9 Sharks and the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC)
18 Shark Spotlight: Mumburarr Whipray
20 Update from the 24th EEA Conference in Leiden, The Netherlands
22 Sharks International 2022: A Mediterranean shark fiesta you do not want to miss!
23 Prioritising conservation efforts for the Critically Endangered Angel Sharks in the North-eastern Mediterranean Sea
25 The worldwide distribution of the Bull Shark and an account of its occurrence in low salinity habitats
29 Uncovering the global shark meat trade
35 Creating the Next Generation of Shark Advocates
43 Safe Space for Sharks: Important Shark & Ray Areas (ISRAs)
54 A refuge amidst peril: Giant Guitarfish in the Andaman Islands, India
57 Angling for Shark Science: Anglers & Scientists, Together as Equals
59 Unmanaged Trade Jeopardizes Freshwater Stingrays Management and Conservation
61 Conscientizing preschool kids on how to know, respect and protect sharks and their relatives in extreme Southern Brazil
66 Assess Working Group Update: Upcoming IUCN Red List assessments
67 New Tools to Curtail the Illegal Shark Trade
73 Supply and demand: the EU’s role in the global shark trade
78 Upcoming Meetings
79 Funding Opportunities
81 Our Sponsors​
Content:
4 Editorial: A note from the Chair
6 Q&A with Marc Dando: Blending science and art through illustration 
12 The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and Sharks
21 The role of the IUCN SSC Shark Specialist Group at CITES
22 Shark Spotlight: The Carolina Hammerhead
23 Understanding public attitude towards sharks for improving their conservation
27 Sharks International 2022 is coming to Europe
28 AES holds first Global Wedgefish and Guitarfish Symposium
31 Empowering Women through Ocean Opportunities
38 A step towards contextualizing the conservation of non-marine elasmobranchs within the global freshwater biodiversity crisis
47 Elasmobranchs of Angola: Assessing impacts of small-scale fisheries on sharks and rays
50 Devils in Distress: not just another fish in the ocean
53 Nowhere to Hide: Trawling in southern Iran poses a dramatic threat to coastal batoids
58 Ocean Guardians: Protecting threatened sharks and rays in Bangladesh through public engagement
64 About sharks in the Algerian sea
66 A propos des requins en mer algérienne
68 What Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras Live in Chile’s Waters? More species than you might think.
71 ¿Qué tiburones, rayas y quimeras viven en aguas chilenas? Más de los que podrías imaginar.
73 ELASMulheres: a Brazilian symposium on Elasmobranchs promoted by, but not exclusively to, women
76 Upcoming IUCN Red List assessments and re-assessments
78 Funding Opportunities
79 Upcoming Meetings

2021
Content:
4 Editorial: A note from the Chair
5 The time for action is now
9 Q&A with Sarah Fowler
13 Convention on Migratory Species Sharks MOU
18 Shark Spotlight: Jordan’s Chimaera
19 Hong Kong takes a lead: Recognizing wildlife crimes as organized and serious crimes in one of the world’s top shark fin trade hubs
23 Bringing science to management and promoting Rhino Ray conservation in Indonesia 
32 The IUCN Green Status of Species
41 Australia releases its first Shark Action Plan
43 Re-examining the status of Chiloscyllium punctatum 
49 Special Issue on Primitive Fishes
51 Using local ecological knowledge to fill in the knowledge gaps for Ghana’s shark fisheries
53 A new study found underreported catches of threatened elasmobranchs in Greece
56 SharkApp
58 Trading fins for conservation
61 Releasing for caring
64 Managing an ex situ elasmobranch population in Europe
68 A Crash Course on the Human Dimensions of Shark Conservation
71 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species update 2021-2
74 Whale Sharks: Biology, Ecology and Conservation
79 Funding Opportunities
80 Upcoming Meetings
Content:
4 Editorial: A note from the Chair 
5 Q&A with Lee Crockett 
9 The Hunt for a Pygmy Devil 
13 In Memory of Professor Carolus Maria Vooren 
15 The Convention on Migratory Species and Sharks
20 Shark Spotlight: The Quagga Catshark 
21 Angel Sharks: A growing network to safeguard the future of these Critically Endangered Sharks
36 Huber Arte Marhina
39 Sand Tiger Shark: Southwest Atlantic Conservation Planning Workshop 
42 Assessing River Jewels
44 Studying Silky Sharks in the Western Atlantic 
46 Shark catches in Albania
48 Gillnets of large mesh sizes: a threat to sharks and rays 
50 3D printed replica shark fins 
52 Are we too late for the Sawfishes of Sri Lanka? 
55 The first record of a juvenile Megamouth Shark 
59 Shark fin consumption in Hong Kong 
63 3rd Indonesian Shark and Ray Symposium
65 Marine Historical Ecology Working Group 
66 The use of Shark Liver Oil 
68 IUCN Red List Sawfishes reassessments 
69 Crash Course in the Human Dimensions of Shark Conservation
70 Shark Biology and Conservation
75 Sharks of the World
79 Funding Opportunities
80 Upcoming Meetings​
Content:
4 Editorial: A note from the Chair
5 Q&A | Meet the SSG’s new Chair: Rima Jabado
9 The Co-Chairs’ view of a decade of shark conservation
12 Thank you note to all Regional Vice-Chairs stepping down
15 A welcome note to all the new Regional Vice-Chairs
18 Regional Vice-Chairs 2021-2024
19 Working Groups
24 John ‘Jack’ A. Musick
28 Curious about what shark species occur in South Africa?
30 Putting a face to a name
32 Founding MISS
36 Recently published
38 The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and Sharks
40 Shark Spotlight: The Bareback Guitarfish
41 Safe havens for sawfishes
56 Research for conservation and management
58 Pakistan – sawfish status and update
60 Report on the meeting of the Working Group on Recreational Fishing
61 Update from the IUCN SSG Africa Region
63 Contribution of the Russian SSG team
65 Upcoming meetings 2021
66 Funding opportunities