The illegal trade of shark fins is pushing several species towards extinction, according to a recent study conducted by scientists at Florida International University. Published in the journal Science Advances, the research highlights alarming levels of noncompliance with international regulations designed to protect endangered shark species.
The study reveals that fins from four out of five shark species, which are listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), are still readily available in markets in Hong Kong, a major hub for shark fin sales. The species under threat include three large hammerhead varieties—scalloped, smooth, and great—as well as the porbeagle and the oceanic whitetip sharks.
Dr. Demian Chapman, the project leader and director of the Shark and Rays Conservation Research Program at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida, stated, “Many sharks may be headed toward extinction. The international trade of shark products, including dried fins used in the luxury dish shark fin soup, often drives fishing pressure beyond a species’ ability to reproduce.”
Despite the regulations set in place in March 2014, which mandate that all trade be reported and certified as sustainable, the research indicates that 81 percent of shark-fin-exporting countries have not reported any trades involving these listed species. This lack of reporting suggests that illegal exports are prevalent.
“There’s a huge gap between what’s on paper and what’s happening in the real world,” said Dr. Diego Cardeñosa, the lead author of the study. “DNA evidence clearly shows these protected species are still entering the global market at alarming rates.”
The research team identified several countries likely involved in the illegal shark fin trade, including Spain, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, China, the Philippines, Ghana, and Brazil. Millions of pounds of shark meat and fins are exchanged in international markets each year, sustaining a demand that fuels both shark hunting and the brutal practice of shark finning. This process involves cutting off the fins of live sharks and discarding the bodies back into the ocean, where they often die.
Dr. Cardeñosa warned, “We are reaching a major tipping point. If the fishing and trade of these species are not meaningfully reduced, these sharks will disappear. This would cause significant changes to ocean ecosystems, affecting many other species, including humans.”
Despite the dire warnings, researchers maintain hope for the survival of shark populations. Dr. Chapman emphasized, “Shedding light on this problem is a major step toward solving it.” The findings of this study could serve as a catalyst for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and greater international collaboration to protect these ancient creatures from extinction.
