The Great Shark Snapshot
Take part in a fun challenge this summer to help shark scientists with their latest research project – an invitation from Shark Trust MD Paul Cox
Shark DNA found in pet food
Pet food containing endangered sharks is being fed to cats and dogs by unwitting owners , a study has revealed . Scientists found that several ( undisclosed ) brands from a sample of 44 collected in Singapore contained endangered species . However , they listed only vague ingredients such as “ ocean fish ”, meaning that consumers are usually oblivious . “ The majority of pet owners are likely lovers of nature , and we think most would be alarmed to discover that they could be unknowingly contributing to the overfishing of shark populations ,” said the study authors , Ben Wainwright and Ian French , of Yale-NUS College , Singapore . Of the 144 samples sequenced , 45 – roughly a third – contained shark DNA . The most frequently identified species were blue shark , silky shark and whitetip reef shark .
Did I mention it was our 25th Anniversary this year ? We thought it would be a good excuse to launch a new project – something to give you an excuse to go for a dive . The Great Shark Snapshot is a call for divers and snorkellers to get out and try to log some shark dives – and record some sightings . Whether white-tips in the Red Sea , mantas in the Maldives or cat sharks in Skegness , we ’ ll take them all .
If you want to join in , just go diving between 24 and 31 July ( inclusive ) and record every shark , ray and skate that your group sees . If possible , take photos and some video footage too . Shore based events can be organised , so groups can explore their local beaches for egg cases and record these over the week too . So , no excuses for non-divers not to get involved .
All sightings and images can be easily uploaded through our website or on the new app ( which is coming soon ). If you need help identifying a species
GET INVOLVED Website : sharktrust . org / the-great-shark-snapshot
Dates : 24th – 31st July 2022 inclusive Link dive club registration : recording . sharktrust . org / snapshot / register Link event map : recording . sharktrust . org / snapshot / find
of shark or egg case , head over to the Shark Trust website , where you ’ ll find ID guides to help you .
The sightings database is a longterm project which creates a pool of information on shark and ray populations . One sighting tells us very little but many , spread across time and geography , can be useful indicators . The data can be shared with researchers and will allow us to build a better picture of species distribution and any changes that occur .
If you run a club , centres or boat then you can sign up and advertise your planned dives during the Great Shark Snapshot week on the Great Shark Snapshot registration page . If you ’ re looking to join an event , you can use the map to find Great Shark Snapshot dives taking place near you . As well as gathering vital data , it ’ ll be a chance to celebrate the shark species that live close to you . www . sharktrust . org
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