SCIENTISTS AWARDED £1M TO STUDY ENDANGERED SHARK SPECIES IN ENGLISH WATERS

Scientists have received nearly £1 million in funding to investigate the movement, breeding patterns and distribution of three endangered shark species in English waters. Natural England's Species Recovery Programme will focus on the blue shark, porbeagle and tope. The research will deploy electronic tags to track migration routes and identify where sharks live, and will examine how the animals respond to capture and release by recreational anglers. Researchers will also work with angling groups based in Looe, Falmouth and Brightlingsea to analyse catch records and build a comprehensive picture of shark distribution around the English coast.

The study will employ ultrasound scanning to identify pregnant sharks and locate potential pupping and nursery grounds. The team intends to conduct workshops and structured interviews with at least 45 anglers to gather knowledge about local shark populations and the size of specimens caught historically. Findings from the research will be used to update England Red List assessments and produce guidance for anglers on improving survival rates of sharks they release. The project involves the University of Exeter, the Angling Trust, the Marine Biological Association and the Pat Smith Database.

Dr Matthew Witt from the University of Exeter stated that coastal and open ocean sharks are among the most threatened animal groups globally, despite holding significant ecological, cultural and economic value. Dr Bryce Stewart from the Marine Biological Association said important shark species inhabit English waters but substantial knowledge gaps remain about their distribution and abundance. He said data collected through the project would help identify actions needed to secure the future of these species. Researchers plan to use angler knowledge alongside electronic tracking technology to establish evidence for conservation efforts.