Abstract

The Chinese demand for shark fins to be served in shark fin soup has grown rapidly since the 1980s. This growth has generated an increase in the number of fisheries targeting sharks, and consequently the number of sharks caught worldwide each year. As a result of increased fishing pressure, many species are currently threatened or at risk of becoming threatened with extinction in the near future. Prior to the recent increase in demand for shark fins, sharks were of low monetary value and were considered relatively unimportant from a global economic standpoint. Hence, shark fisheries were seen as warranting sparse research, reporting, regulation and monitoring in many countries, especially at the species level. Although species status, catch, and trade data for sharks have improved in recent years, many records remain incomplete and difficult to access, and data are lacking for large spatial areas and time periods. Furthermore, the accuracy of existing data has been challenged. Sea Around Us Project researchers are working to compile the best available data and information related to sharks, identify gaps, and fill in the blanks using a variety of estimation and modelling techniques. We present our results in formats that are accessible and convenient for scientists to use. Our findings are being applied by scientists and ecosystem modellers at the Sea Around Us Project and elsewhere to conduct studies that will help us better understand the status of sharks, shape global management policies, and hopefully work toward a sustainable future for shark species globally. An overview of current projects is provided in the Introduction.