Shark scientists from the Charles Darwin Foundation will present their new research on the ecological connectivity and migratory patterns of Scalloped Hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna lewini) across the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) region. Drawing on the latest satellite-tracking and population genetics data and innovative satellite vessel monitoring technologies, their work reveals how transboundary movements link critical habitats across multiple national jurisdictions – even in areas beyond national jurisdictions - and the risk they face from Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.

 

The speakers will also demonstrate how their findings support the uplisting proposal submitted by the Ecuadorian Government (COP15/Doc.30.2.14), underscoring a clear need to translate this scientific evidence of population declines and persistent threats to their migratory nature into the necessary policy action for enhanced and coordinated transboundary governance and cooperation.

 

This side-event will also pay a tribute to the unique natural history of the scalloped hammerhead shark, one of the few species that aggregate in large schools in one of the greatest underwater spectacles of nature, and the urgent need to recover their populations given their Critically Endangered status.