Global Shark Mortality Soars: Urgent Action Needed to Save Threatened Species

Despite global regulations designed to protect sharks from finning, scientists have discovered that approximately 80 million sharks are killed annually, with 25 million of them belonging to threatened species. Catch data spanning from 2012 to 2019 revealed an increase in shark deaths from 76 million to 80 million per year. The study, published on January 11 in the journal Science, utilized data from the period when legislation against shark finning surged tenfold.

Researchers, including marine ecologist Boris Worm from Dalhousie University in Canada, stressed the need for urgent action to save threatened species. The study involved a comprehensive review of fisheries data from 150 countries, high seas, computer modeling, and interviews with experts, such as scientists, governments, environmental advocates, and fisheries workers.

While overfishing poses a significant threat to sharks, the study indicated that legislation aimed at preventing shark finning has not reduced shark mortality and may have even contributed to an increase. Mortality hotspots in coastal waters were identified as the primary cause of the overall increase, with shark deaths in coastal fisheries rising by 4%. The regulation against finning has led to fishers retaining entire sharks, potentially creating new markets for shark meat.

The rise in shark mortality coincided with an increase in the value of the shark trade, estimated at $2.6 billion by a WWF report covering the same period. Deaths in offshore fisheries decreased by 7%, as these vessels are now prohibited from retaining certain species onboard. The study authors emphasized the importance of addressing shark mortality directly, suggesting measures such as banning shark fishing, enforcing science-based catch limits, protecting critical areas, and highlighting the value of live sharks.

The study underscores the global extent of the shark market, not only for fins but also for meat. Researchers advocate for individual actions to reduce impact, such as avoiding shark-related products and supporting conservation measures. Despite being a solvable problem, researchers stress the urgency of tackling the issue now, as sharks face a dwindling timeframe for survival.