SHARK SANCTUARIES AND
MARINE PROTECTED AREAS
WHAT IS A SHARK SANCTUARY OR
SHARK PROTECTED AREA?
A shark sanctuary or shark marine protected area (MPA) is a designated region of the ocean where shark fishing and related activities are strictly regulated or entirely prohibited. These areas are established to provide safe havens for shark populations, ensuring that they can thrive without the threat of commercial fishing, bycatch, or illegal hunting. The goal of these sanctuaries is to protect sharks from overexploitation, allowing their populations to recover and maintain healthy levels, which is crucial for the overall health of marine ecosystems.
WHY ARE SHARK SANCTUARIES IMPORTANT
Biodiversity Preservation
Sharks play a vital role as apex predators in marine ecosystems, helping to maintain balance by regulating the populations of species below them in the food chain. By keeping prey species in check, sharks prevent overgrazing of vital habitats like seagrass beds and coral reefs, which supports overall ocean health and biodiversity. Their presence is a key indicator of a thriving, balanced marine environment.
Population Recovery
Many shark species are now threatened or endangered due to intense overfishing, bycatch, and the loss of their natural habitats. Shark sanctuaries offer vital protection by creating safe, controlled environments where sharks are free from fishing pressures and other human threats. Within these protected areas, sharks have the chance to recover, reproduce, and rebuild their populations—playing a crucial role in restoring ocean health and ensuring the survival of vulnerable species for future generations.
Ecosystem Health
Healthy shark populations are essential for maintaining the stability and health of marine ecosystems. As top predators, sharks help regulate the populations of species lower in the food chain, preventing overpopulation that can damage critical habitats. This natural balance supports the resilience of ecosystems like coral reefs, seagrass beds, and open ocean environments, all of which rely on predator-prey dynamics to thrive. Without sharks, the entire marine food web can become unbalanced, leading to long-term ecological decline.
Economic Benefits
Shark sanctuaries not only protect marine life but also offer valuable economic opportunities through ecotourism. Many coastal regions around the world have experienced significant financial benefits by attracting tourists eager to dive and observe sharks in their natural environments. These sustainable tourism activities generate income for local communities, support jobs in the diving and hospitality industries, and provide strong incentives to keep sharks alive and thriving rather than exploited.
HOW MUCH OF THE OCEAN IS PROTECTED?
Currently, only about 7% of the world’s oceans are designated as marine protected areas (MPAs), and less than 1% is specifically dedicated to shark sanctuaries. While limited in number, these shark sanctuaries play a crucial role in conserving vulnerable shark populations and supporting healthy marine ecosystems. Notable sanctuaries include pioneering efforts like the Palau Shark Sanctuary, The Bahamas, French Polynesia, and the Marshall Islands, which is the largest in the world. Regional initiatives like Micronesia’s collective sanctuary and shark protections within MPAs in countries like Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and the Seychelles demonstrate growing global momentum. Expanding and strengthening these protected areas is essential for safeguarding sharks and preserving ocean biodiversity for future generations.
