Sharks and rays play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of marine ecosystems. However, in the Mediterranean, more than half of these species are currently considered threatened, due to accidental bycatch, habitat degradation, and unsustainable fishing practices.
To respond to this urgent challenge, the Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (SPA/RAC), with the support of the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE), has funded six micro-projects in the Adriatic region. Launched in 2025, these initiatives aim to raise public awareness, promote sustainable practices, and strengthen community engagement in the protection of these vulnerable species.
Each initiative takes a unique, locally adapted approach:
“HA, YES – Have you ever eaten a Shark?” (Italy – CESTHA)
The campaign offers an online Shark Slice Guide to help consumers recognize shark species found in food products and understand whether they are legally caught or endangered. A podcast accompanies the initiative to further spread the message.
“Guardians of the Sharks” (Croatia – HIPPOCAMPUS)
Educational videos were produced on how to safely release sharks and rays accidentally caught in fishing gear. These were presented during three workshops held in the Molat Archipelago. During filming, 50 individuals were released.
“Voices of the Deep” (Albania – Royal Albania Foundation)
A multimedia campaign in the Vlora region, including videos, infographics, and public events, aimed at raising awareness of threats to cartilaginous fishes and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Citizen Science for Bycatch Reporting (Montenegro – University of Montenegro)
A practical manual in Montenegrin was created to help fishers identify and report accidental catches of sharks and rays (elasmobranchs). The manual is available in both digital and printed formats.
“Unlocking Collaborative Pathways” (WWF-Adria)
WWF-Adria promoted the use of tShark, a digital platform for reporting the recapture of tagged sharks and rays. The project included online awareness campaigns, direct engagement with fishing communities, and the production of an educational animated video.
“Safeguarding Cartilaginous Fishes in the Southern Adriatic” (Albania – Sharklab ADRIA)
A science-based, community-driven initiative that provided hands-on training in species identification and safe handling. The project also supported students and early-career researchers in developing skills for monitoring and conservation.
Together, these six projects are making a concrete contribution to the updated Regional Strategy and Action Plans for the protection of endangered marine species in the Mediterranean.