Did you know that after the amphibians, chondrichthyans (sharks, rays, and chimaeras) are the most threatened vertebrate Class?
In fact, recent assessments state that 1 in 3 shark species are threatened with extinction (IUNC Red List). Although many shark populations are threatened and declining, sharks are mostly perceived as predators that humans should fear.
SRAP Queensland representative and social media manager, Dr Mariel Familiar López.
Our member, SRAP Queensland representative and social media manager, Dr Mariel Familiar López research aims to change people’s attitude towards sharks and improved their conservation. Last June, she was interviewed for SBS Español regarding Australia’s shark nets programs.
A shark eating a fish.
In July, Mariel’s was featured in a National Geographic documentary titled ‘Bull shark bandits’. Together with her partner and shark scientist, Dr Johan Gustafson, the documentary showcases their bull shark research investigating the rising reports of sharks stealing from fishermen (depredation) in Weipa, northern Queensland, Australia. Shark depredation or bite-offs, occurs when a shark partially or completely consumes a fish caught by fishing gear before it can be landed.
A couple of shark scientists: Dr. Johan Gustafson and Dr. Mariel Familiar López.
If you want to learn more about the fascinating world of shark and of science with a bite 😉 follow her research adventures on social media @SharkEcologyAustralia and @mariel_fl.
