At least one kind of shark — thought to be extinct in the Mediterranean Sea — is still hanging on in the Adriatic Sea.
Researchers have found evidence that two of the three regional, endangered angel shark species are still managing to survive in the Adriatic Sea off Croatia, according to a recent report in the scientific journal Natura Croatica:
“Our analysis showed that this formerly abundant species is still present in the Adriatic Sea, emphasizing the importance of implementing novel approaches, such as citizen-science programmes, in studying its current distribution.”
However, the scientists warn:
“Although the legal framework for angelshark conservation already exists, poor implementation and lack of any species-specific conservation measures will most probably result in further population declines and extinction of S. squatina from the Adriatic Sea.”
Check out an abstract of the report here, and the full report here.
