By Courtney Cooper
The Importance of Shark Sanctuaries and Protected Areas
The preservation of sharks and their ecosystems is a complex issue that cannot be solved with a one-size-fits-all approach. Sharks, as a taxonomic group, exhibit an impressive level of diversity, both in terms of their physical characteristics and the significance they hold. Protecting sharks as animals necessitates safeguarding tourism, fishing rights, culture, and economies. In recent years, there has been a notable development in conservation efforts with the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs), stricter regulations on shark product trade, and improved fishing policies. However, a noteworthy addition to these efforts has been the emergence of dedicated shark sanctuaries. In this article, we explore the importance of shark sanctuaries and protected areas. We also discuss further shark facts that you might be interested in! Apex Predators provides the best great white shark cage diving in Cape Town.
The preservation of sharks and their ecosystems
Shark sanctuaries are designated within a country’s territorial waters as specific geographical areas. Every sanctuary has its own set of regulations designed to protect the sharks, rays, and chimaeras that inhabit it. The regulations of these sanctuaries differ based on the specific aims of implementation, but typically encompass restrictions on fishing for sharks and the trade of shark products, with the ultimate objective of decreasing shark mortality.
There are currently 17 sanctuaries worldwide dedicated to the protection of sharks. These sanctuaries span an impressive 19.4 million square kilometres (7.5 million square miles), surpassing the size of South America. These areas often have restrictions on commercial fishing of sharks and sometimes even recreational fishing of all species.
South Africa has a number of important laws that govern shark protection and conservation
- The National Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks (NPOA-Sharks) was developed in alignment with the International Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks (IPOA-Sharks) by the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO). It aims to promote sustainable shark catches, evaluate risks to shark populations, safeguard vital habitats, and establish effective harvesting methods.
- South African Shark Biodiversity Management Plan: Created to ensure the well-being and protection of both resident and migratory sharks in South African waters. It enhances protection through international agreements, such as CITES and CMS.
Researchers in the United States are currently evaluating the effectiveness of shark sanctuaries through the use of a modelling system. This system analyses publicly available fishing data to calculate shark catch and mortality rates. Their discoveries mark a significant advancement in harnessing data science to address the conservation issues of the ocean.
We also share insight into understanding shark migration patterns.
