More than a dozen new species of sharks received additional protections after the 18th Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora Conference of the Parties held this week in Geneva, Switzerland.
“Previous successful listing of shark and ray species means there is building momentum for CITES to provide protections and inspire fisheries management where currently trade is unregulated,” Matt Collis, IFAW Director, International Policy, and head of IFAW’s delegation at CITES, said.
Delegates from more than 180 countries also voted for the inclusion of a total of 18 species of rays and sharks, including giant guitarfish, shortfin mako sharks, and wedgefish, in Appendix II. CITES can impose sanctions on countries which do not adhere to its rules.
Mako sharks could be one of the biggest winners from the latest additions. According to data used for CITES Appendix II listing criteria, mako shark populations have seen declines from 60-96% worldwide. Up to 1 million are caught each year, an unsustainable number driven by high international demand for their fins and meat and inadequate management.
“There is a real global momentum to save these species. There is now hope for these 18 depleted species of sharks and rays,” said Megan O’Toole of the International Fund for the Protection of Animals.
