Conservation Efforts to Save Endangered Sharks and Rays in Ghana and Indonesia

Sharks and rays, some of the most fascinating marine creatures, are increasingly facing the threat of extinction worldwide. In Ghana, over 65% of shark species fall under the categories of critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable. The situation is no better in Indonesia, where the population of thresher sharks has significantly declined due to hunting. These alarming trends call for urgent and concerted conservation efforts. The work of Dr. Issah Seidu in Ghana and Rafid Shidqi in Indonesia highlights the important role science can play in these efforts.

Endangered Sharks and Rays in Ghana

In Ghana, researchers are meticulously conducting measurements and surveys to gather data on shark and ray catch in coastal communities. This work is led by Dr. Issah Seidu, a leader of AquaLife Conservancy, who has been instrumental in providing the first comprehensive fisheries data on these species in the region. Dr. Seidu and his team conducted surveys in nine coastal communities to collect data on catch frequency, composition, size, and historical trends of shark and ray species.

Their study has contributed to the IUCN Red List assessments of 28 West African endemic and near-endemic species. Use of this baseline information is critical in developing effective conservation strategies to safeguard these species. Recognizing his pivotal role in marine conservation, Dr. Seidu was named a New England Aquarium’s Marine Conservation Action Fund Fellow in 2022.

Conservation of Thresher Sharks in Indonesia

Over in Indonesia, conservationists are focusing on the protection of the endangered pelagic thresher sharks. Led by Rafid Shidqi, these conservationists are using tagging technology to track these creatures and are working with local communities to discuss potential alternative livelihoods for fishers dependent on the species. This is a significant step towards understanding the community's dependency on these sharks and discussing voluntary incentives for alternative livelihoods.

Mapping Important Areas for Sharks and Rays

Besides individual efforts in Ghana and Indonesia, global initiatives like the Important Shark and Ray Areas project are making strides in shark and ray conservation. The project identifies and protects critical areas for sharks and rays, using a series of regional workshops and expert reviews. The goal is to inform countries' existing spatial planning, fisheries management processes, and other conservation planning. So far, over 65 and 125 Important Shark and Ray Areas have been identified in the Mediterranean and Black seas region and the Western Indian Ocean, respectively. These identified areas could potentially be incorporated into marine protected areas or other types of ocean preserves.

From Ghana to Indonesia, and indeed throughout the world, the conservation of sharks and rays is a task of paramount importance. The efforts of scientists, conservationists, and local communities are invaluable in this endeavor. While the challenge is great, the collective action and commitment to safeguard these species is a beacon of hope for the future of our marine ecosystems.