At world’s largest shark conference, scientists warn of a grim outlook across the board – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pixabay)
Colombo, Sri Lanka – More than 800 researchers and conservationists met in the capital for five days in early May to examine the latest findings on sharks and rays. The gathering, known as Sharks International, brought together experts who presented data on global trade patterns, population declines, and efforts to strengthen protections in marine areas. Their collective message pointed to widespread pressure on these species and the need for more effective responses.
The Gathering That Drew Global Attention
Presentations covered a wide range of topics, from rewilding projects to better enforcement of existing rules. Attendees discussed how marine protected areas could be made more effective and how monitoring systems might be strengthened to reduce illegal catches. The event highlighted both the scale of current challenges and the range of tools available to address them.
Discussions moved beyond familiar concerns about fins to include the full picture of fishing pressure. Researchers emphasized that solutions must account for multiple drivers of decline if populations are to recover.
Population Declines and Their Drivers
Overfishing has cut shark and ray numbers in half since 1970, according to the research shared at the conference. More than one third of all species now face a high risk of extinction. These figures reflect long-term trends that continue to shape ocean ecosystems around the world.
The data underscore how fishing activity affects not only individual species but also the broader balance of marine life. Scientists noted that recovery will require sustained reductions in catch levels across many regions.
Meat Trade Emerges as a Major Factor
Attention at the conference turned to the trade in shark and ray meat, which has received less notice than the fin trade in recent years. A 2021 analysis valued the meat trade at $2.6 billion between 2012 and 2019, compared with $1.5 billion for fins. This shift in focus revealed that meat represents a larger economic driver of fishing pressure than previously emphasized.
Researchers from Dalhousie University presented early results from a project that uses large datasets to identify which species are being caught and where they enter trade routes. The work aims to fill gaps in understanding that have persisted because many shipments are recorded only under broad labels such as “shark” or “ray.”
Only 29 percent of the landing data countries report to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations includes species-level detail. This limited information makes it harder to assess the true impact on specific populations and to design targeted protections.
Next Steps for Stronger Protections
Conference participants outlined several practical measures that could improve outcomes. These include expanding rewilding efforts, refining the design of protected areas, and upgrading enforcement tools to close loopholes in current regulations. The emphasis remained on combining scientific insights with on-the-ground action.
While the findings presented a consistent picture of pressure on shark and ray populations, researchers also pointed to areas where more data are still needed. Ongoing projects like the Dalhousie study are expected to provide clearer details in the coming years.
What matters now: Improved tracking of meat trade routes, stronger species-level reporting, and expanded marine protections stand out as immediate priorities for reducing pressure on sharks and rays.
