SHARKPROJECT News.

Today, on World Ocean Day, we celebrate the ocean that sustains life on Earth. From producing much of the oxygen we breathe to supporting biodiversity, livelihoods, and climate regulation, the ocean connects us all.

This year’s theme, “Reimagine”, invites us to rethink our relationship with the sea, and think of it not as a distant resource, but as a shared responsibility.
Together, we can help ensure a healthy ocean for future generations. 🌊

#WorldOceanDay #WorldOceanDay2026 #Reimagine #OceanConservation #sharkproject ...

Scientists discover thousands of new species every year, and advances in genetics are revealing that some animals once thought to be the same species are actually distinct lineages. One recent example is Mobula yarae, a newly recognised manta ray species identified through years of research and genetic analysis.

These discoveries are more than just new names. They improve our understanding of evolution, biodiversity, and conservation, helping scientists better protect vulnerable marine life and the ecosystems they depend on.

The ocean remains one of Earth’s least explored environments and there is still much left to discover. #sharkproject #newspecies #marinelife #manta #scientific ...

Tagging and recapture data are crucial for understanding shark migration and distribution. Shark tagging involves attaching small tags to sharks, enabling researchers to monitor their movements, growth, and behaviours.

The Cooperative Shark Tagging Program (CSTP), initiated by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center in 1962, has expanded to include over 7,000 volunteers who have tagged more than 295,000 sharks from over 50 species. This initiative has highlighted the importance of long-term ecological monitoring and the role of sharks in ocean ecosystems.

Various tagging methods, provide unique data on migration, population structure, habitat use, and species-specific survival and reproduction patterns. The information from tagging has assisted NOAA in defining essential fish habitats (EFH) for 38 federally managed shark species, which are vital for protecting nursery grounds and determining breeding and feeding areas.

The insights gained are foundational for effective stock assessments, bycatch reduction strategies, and seasonal closures to ensure long-term sustainability.

#SharkTagging #MarineConservation #OceanConservation #SharkScience #sharkproject ...