A groundbreaking study published in Science has unveiled the dire consequences of overfishing on shark populations, particularly reef sharks. The research, conducted by the Global FinPrint project and led by Florida International University, analyzed an impressive 22,000 hours of underwater video footage from monitoring stations across 391 reefs in 67 countries and territories. The findings revealed a staggering 63% decline in five prominent shark species—grey reef, blacktip reef, whitetip reef, nurse, and Caribbean reef sharks—living on coral reefs worldwide.
“This study provides the most accurate estimates of population decline for widespread shark species due to the extensive sampling of reefs and countries,” explains Colin Simpfendorfer, the lead author and adjunct professor of Marine and Aquaculture Science at James Cook University. “The magnitude of this decline reveals that the problem facing sharks on coral reefs is far more severe and widespread than previously believed.”
The initial findings prompted the reclassification of four of these species to higher threat categories on the IUCN Red List. Additionally, the results were presented at the recent Conference of the Parties of CITES, leading to a groundbreaking decision by governments worldwide to enhance trade regulations for these shark species and over 50 others.
The final results of the study highlight that overfishing not only jeopardizes shark populations but also disrupts the functioning of coral reefs. Reef sharks play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance by occupying the apex predator position in the coral reef food chain. As top predators, they regulate the populations of lower-level predators, such as smaller reef fish and mesopredators, through a predator-prey relationship called a trophic cascade.
Removing reef sharks from the ecosystem disrupts this balance, leading to potential overpopulation of lower-level predators, competition, altered species composition, reduced biodiversity, and negative impacts on coral reef health and resilience.
“Healthy coral reefs are essential for our planet,” emphasizes Mike Heithaus, co-author of the study and executive dean of FIU’s College of Arts, Sciences & Education. “The disappearance of sharks causes ripple effects throughout these ecosystems. Preserving and rebuilding shark populations is vital for maintaining the health of reefs.”
The study also observed that numerous reefs have already experienced a decline in shark and ray species, with rays dominating the ecosystem. However, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) have proven to be effective in safeguarding shark populations. These designated regions for long-term marine resource conservation highlight the importance of conservation efforts.
“While overfishing and poor governance contribute to the absence of these species, they are still common in MPAs and areas where shark fishing is banned or heavily regulated,” explains Demian Chapman, lead scientist of Global FinPrint and director of the Sharks and Rays Conservation Program at Mote Marine Laboratory.
Simpfendorfer concludes by urging immediate action to prevent widespread extinction of shark species: “This study can help identify nations where shark catches would be detrimental. It is crucial that we take action now to protect sharks in many parts of the world.”
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