The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora recently updated its regulation and monitoring of several iconic shark and ray species, including the mysterious gulper shark. This deepwater species, which has been facing extinction threats due to hunting for its liver rich in squalene, a compound used in cosmetics, received new protections to curb its exploitation.
Gulper sharks, known for living in the deep ocean at depths below 200 meters for millions of years, are slow to mature, have long lifespans, and produce small litters, making them vulnerable to overexploitation. The new regulations aim to regulate the trade of these species across borders and improve monitoring standards to ensure their conservation.
In a historic move, deepwater shark species were added to the lists of regulated species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. This is crucial as deep-sea species face increasing threats from deepwater fishing activities, further endangering their populations.
Additionally, other iconic marine animals such as whale sharks, oceanic whitetip sharks, and manta rays were also included in the list that bans all commercial trade of their species or by-products. This comprehensive protection measure is essential for safeguarding these species from extinction threats.
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