Shark And Ray Populations Decline 50% Since 1970

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Because of overfishing, habitat degradation, pollution, and climate change, shark and ray populations have decreased by more than 50% in the last 50 years.

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The extinction of more than one-third of chondrichthyan species is a real possibility.

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To evaluate the vulnerability of species, the aquatic Red List Index (RLI) was created.

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Sequential depletion has occurred in large, functionally significant species such as hammerheads and sawfish.

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The balance and nutrient dynamics of marine ecosystems are greatly dependent on sharks and rays.

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Countries like South Africa, Canada, and Australia have successfully adopted conservation measures.

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Among the tactics are catch limits based on science, improved governance, and the elimination of detrimental subsidies.

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Recovery efforts are hampered in many areas by poor management and governance.

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For species to recover, sustainable fishing methods, improved governance, and the removal of detrimental subsidies are essential.

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