Nearly One-Third of Shark Species Threatened Globally Due to Fishing

Sharks face significant threats globally, with nearly one-third of species endangered primarily due to fishing practices, including incidental capture and bycatch, which are not fully mitigated by current retention bans. Research from UC Santa Barbara stresses the need for comprehensive monitoring and multi-faceted management strategies to improve shark survival rates. While sharks are often feared by humans, especially in regions like the Mediterranean and Texas, they play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems by regulating fish populations and biodiversity. In Texas, shark populations appear to be stable or increasing due to protective measures, despite concerns about warming waters, and common species include bull sharks and others found both nearshore and offshore. The Mediterranean Sea hosts numerous shark species, many of which are endangered and face risks from deep-sea fishing, although shark attacks remain rare. Overall, sharks are vital ocean predators whose conservation requires ongoing efforts to balance human activity and ecological health.