Sharks, rays, and chimaeras are facing an escalating crisis. Nearly 20 years after the first IUCN report, these species remain under immense threat from overfishing, habitat destruction, and illegal trade. Despite significant strides in research, their future remains uncertain.
Around the world, shark and ray products continue to fuel an international market. In Oman, shark liver oil is used in traditional eyeliner. In Indonesia, shark and ray skins are transformed into chips. Skates are served in U.S. restaurants alongside mako and thresher sharks. Europe’s luxury markets feature stingray skin accessories. Shark meat is disguised as European conger. In Thailand, the skins are made into handbags and wallets. In Yemen, shark corneas are reportedly used for human transplants. This trade fuels the exploitation of these vulnerable species. This drives them further towards extinction, says the IUCN report report, Global Status of Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras.
KEY INSIGHTS INTO SHARK AND RAY CONSERVATION
The iucn species survival commission (ssc) shark specialist Group (SSG) has published a comprehensive report on sharks, rays, and chimaeras. This 2,000-page document consolidates research from 158 countries, tracking their biology, fisheries, trade, and conservation efforts. The report underscores the urgency of the situation and calls for national action to protect these species.
DECLINING POPULATIONS AND THE GROWTH OF GLOBAL DEMAND
The global demand for shark and ray meat has surged in recent years. The value of shark and ray meat has now reached 1.7 times the value of the global fin trade. Products like ray gill plates, liver oil, and skins generate nearly USD 1 billion annually. This booming trade is happening while many shark populations continue to plummet. Species like rhino rays, wedgefish, and angel sharks are seeing drastic declines.
ROLE OF GOVERNMENTS IN CONSERVATION
Sarah Fowler, of the Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF), who led the 2005 report and contributed to the 2024 version, emphasizes that governments are making progress. They are breaking down silos that previously separated fisheries management from conservation efforts. But the battle is far from over. Alexandra Morata of the IUCN SSC SSG explains this situation clearly. These are are now among the most threatened vertebrates on the planet.
OVERFISHING AND BYCATCH: THE MAIN DRIVERS OF DECLINE
Overfishing remains the primary threat to their population. Indonesia, Spain, and India are the largest shark-fishing nations. Mexico and the USA are also major contributors. Yet, only 26% of shark species are targeted directly by fisheries; the majority are caught as bycatch. This includes species like the rhino ray, which faces near extinction due to overfishing practices.
A HOPEFUL PATH FORWARD: SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES AND RESEARCH ADVANCES
While the crisis is dire, there is hope. Decades of research and policy reforms have led to the development of sustainable fisheries in countries like Canada, the USA, and Australia. Scientific understanding of their population has improved, particularly in remote regions of Africa, Asia, and Central America. These advances provide a foundation for future conservation efforts, guiding governments to implement effective solutions.
IMPORTANCE OF SHARKS, RAYS, AND CHIMAERAS IN ECOSYSTEMS
Sharks, rays, and chimaeras play critical roles in marine ecosystems. Some species help cycle nutrients across the ocean, while others fight climate change by maintaining carbon-sequestering ecosystems like mangroves. These creatures are crucial for food security in vulnerable coastal communities. In these areas, more than 80% of income depends on shark and ray fisheries.
CALL TO ACTION: IMPLEMENTING THE REPORT’S RECOMMENDATIONS
Dr. Rima Jabado, chair of the IUCN SSC SSG, emphasizes that immediate action is needed. The 2024 report offers a roadmap for nations to implement sustainable fisheries management practices. Only by following these guidelines can we ensure the survival of sharks, rays, and chimaeras in our oceans.
The report also highlights the dedication of scientists, researchers, and conservationists working tirelessly to protect these species. Their efforts have made significant strides, but much remains to be done. The conservation community must continue to collaborate to implement the recommendations and make a lasting difference.