Taxonomic & biological annotations on six endangered shark species found in the landings at Karachi Fish Harbour with reference to some conservation strategy measures

Abstract

Identification based on taxonomy of six (6) shark species that have been occasionally seen in the landings of Karachi Fish Harbour (KFH) was carried out in this study. Between 2014 and 2023, field and laboratory observations were made in five different surveys. These uncommon shark species were identified as Carcharhinus amblyrhynchus, C. amboinensis, C.hemiodon, C. longimanus, C. macloti and Stegostoma fasciatum. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have described these species of sharks as endangered, data deficient, critically endangered and near threatened species respectively in their Red List 2022. These species are being captured and sold for markets connected to domestic and international commerce or export procedures, despite the fact that they are endangered and on the verge of extinction. Regrettably, the main reasons for this out-of-control situation and the extinction of these protected species are the local fishermen's misunderstanding of the laws and the inadequate monitoring provided by higher authorities.