What is CITES and how does it protect sharks?

CITES is an international agreement that regulates trade in endangered species. For sharks and rays, it now imposes enhanced restrictions on commercial trade, especially for critically endangered species like whale sharks.

Which species were most impacted by the Samarkand talks?

Whale sharks, manta rays, and devil rays were among the key species added to CITES Appendix 1, offering them the highest level of protection against commercial trade.

Why are shark and ray protections important for the ocean?

Sharks and rays are vital to ocean health. They play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration, and their protection helps maintain ecosystem balance.

Home / Environment / Historic Win: Sharks and Rays Granted Enhanced CITES Protection

Historic Win: Sharks and Rays Granted Enhanced CITES Protection

8 Jan

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Summary

Over 70 shark and ray species now have enhanced international protections.
Whale sharks, manta rays, and devil rays are notably added to Appendix 1.
New protections aim to curb overfishing and support ocean ecosystem health.

Historic Win: Sharks and Rays Granted Enhanced CITES Protection

Conservationists are celebrating a significant victory for marine life, as over 70 species of sharks and rays have secured enhanced international protections. These crucial safeguards were established during recent talks in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

The most impactful additions include whale sharks, manta rays, and devil rays, now listed under CITES Appendix 1. This designation imposes a total ban on commercial trade for these critically endangered species, closing vital protection gaps. These gentle giants play a critical role in ocean ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration.

This CITES listing marks a pivotal first step toward ending overfishing and offers a fresh wave of hope for marine megafauna. While CITES has faced challenges with enforcement in the past, this development, if adequately supported by officials, could catalyze a much-needed turnaround for threatened marine species.