Fin-mounted technology, such as accelerometers and cameras, are used to collect data about the movement of a shark’s body. They record video of a shark’s behavior and the ocean environment. Accelerometers use the same technology as cellphones to determine the pitch, roll, yaw, and speed of the animal as it swims. Fin-mounted cameras have helped researchers make discoveries about coral reefs , seagrass beds , and white shark feeding behavior . Spaghetti, Dart, or Roto Tags In my opinion, this was one of the best, most direct and novel hands-on approaches to shark conservation I had come across. Not only did it result in a positive outcome from the result of direct action but the potential for public engagement for this type of project was huge.

This project by Sharklab-Malta is one that can be adopted and adapted for oviparous elasmobranch species worldwide. For example, I have successfully replicated this with S. canicula landed in the North Sea. It is without a doubt valuable for future conservation efforts. References Greg’s preliminary work in 2012 soon expanded with the recruitment of Lydia Koehler as science officer, Pamela Mason as education coordinator and Dave Mason as membership coordinator. All three, plus numerous volunteers, were (and still are) involved in eggcase recovery and retrieval from the fish market. This, combined with the aquaria maintenance and shark husbandry information I supplied, all coincided with the opening of the Malta National Aquarium in October 2013. Skate, chimaera and some shark species produce eggs encased in a tough 'leathery' eggcase. A female may spend a long time laying her eggs, ensuring they’re securely fixed in a safe place. It can take between 6-9 months before they’re ready to hatch.

Spiral shark eggs

Join the Shark Trust for an online session about the current state of shark conservation, the key facts and figures and how we can engage visitors in concrete action for sharks.

Tonic immobility is a reflex that causes a temporary state of inactivity in an animal. Similar to hypnosis. It occurs in a variety of different species, including many sharks and rays... Besides being fun to say, ovoviviparous sharks have eggs that hatch inside of the womb and the shark has a live birth. This might sound just like the viviparous pups above, but there is no placenta involved. Pups live on a yolk sac until they are ready to hatch. The first shark to hatch from its egg will then consume the other shark fetuses and their yolk sacs. Obviously, ovoviviparous give birth to small litters. Abdulla, A, 2004. Status and conservation of sharks in the Mediterranean Sea. IUCN Technical Paper 144 (7). Sharks are particularly vulnerable to the threats posed by humans because they reproduce slowly. They:

Delivery and Returns

Koehler, L., Smith, L.E., Nowell, G., 2018. Recovered and Released – A novel approach to oviparous shark conservation. Ocean and Coastal Management. 154. 178-185. Sharks have a range of adaptations that make them perfectly suited to their environment. It's no wonder they've gained a reputation for being some of the most impressive and formidable predators on the planet!