Driftnets, vertically hanging nets that drift with ocean currents and can stretch for kilometers, are used to catch large pelagic species such as swordfish and tuna. However, they have long drawn criticism from conservationists as they also capture and kill sharks, turtles, dolphins and other marine wildlife. For decades, debate has raged about use of […]
Tag: sharks
“When they use these spines, they puncture them really deeply into their attacker. They can deliver venom into the wound”
In a new study, researchers compared the features of 30 different stingray spines to find out why some break off while others remain sturdy Scientists have gained a fascinating insight into how stingrays’ iconic spines differ across species and the trade-off between different features. “Stingray spines are highly modified scales,” says Emily Poulin, a PhD candidate […]
Petition: Protect Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks and Their Birthing Grounds in Panama
There is finally some hopeful news for one of the ocean’s most endangered sharks. Critically endangered scalloped hammerhead sharks are still thriving in part of the Galapagos, where decades of protections have allowed huge numbers to gather and survive. In some areas, so many sharks swim together they can temporarily block out the sunlight. But […]