Scientists say sharks and rays are disappearing from the world's oceans at an "alarming" rate. A new study shows that shark populations have fallen by 71 percent in high seas for more than half a century, and the main cause of this phenomenon is overfishing. Three-quarters of all species studied are at risk of extinction.
The study found a dramatic decline in sharks and rays found in the open oceans, including hammerheads, mako sharks, and the giant manta ray.
The study found a sharp decline in shark and ray populations found in the open seas, including hammerhead sharks, grey mackerel sharks and double-snouted manta rays.
Since 1970, shark and ray catches have tripled, pushing many species to the brink of extinction.
Shark and ray catches have tripled since 1970, pushing many species to the brink of extinction.
The scientists say overfishing of sharks and rays jeopardises the health of entire ocean ecosystems, as well as food security for some of the world's poorest countries.
Scientists say overfishing sharks and rays endanger the health of entire marine ecosystems while endangering food security in some of the world's poorest countries.
They're calling on governments to set science-based fishing limits to secure a brighter future for these extraordinary animals.
Scientists are calling on governments to set scientifically based fishing caps to ensure a brighter future for these amazing animals.
< h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" > glossary</h1>
Hammerheads hammerhead sharks, hammerhead sharks
Mako sharks grey mackerel sharks
The giant manta ray double-kissed manta ray
Catches capture volume
Overfishing overfishing
Jeopardises endangered, damaged
ecosystems Ecosystems
Food security Food security
Science-based scientifically grounded, science-based
secure protection, defend