Conservation concerns

RESEARCHERS from the CIMAR (Santa Pola Marine Research Centre) of the University of Alicante (UA) among other groups have produced scientific reports on the importance of two areas of the southern coast of Alicante and the Murcia Region for the conservation of sharks and rays.

“Elasmobranchs are essential for the functioning of the marine ecosystem, which contrasts with an undeserved bad reputation.

“Although it is true that, in recent times, a certain amount of awareness has begun worldwide among different groups and in­ stitutions that promote action plans for the protection of these species,” added Elisa Arroyo, UA researcher and member of the team responsible for the proposal.

Scientific data shows that at least 50 per cent of Mediterranean rays and 54 per cent of sharks are at high risk of extinction due to continuous overfishing for years and bycatch associated with different types of fishing gear.

“The consequences of the disappearance of sharks and rays from our waters can offer an unpredictable scenario, due to the important role they play in the ecosystem.”