Conservation Ongoing

Conservation of Sharks and Rays

European Bestlife project to protect sharks and rays in the Canary Islands. Species identification, population monitoring and citizen science for conservation.

Protecting Marine Biodiversity in the Canary Islands

The project "Conservation Strategies for Sharks and Rays in the Canary Islands: A Scientific Approach and Stakeholder Review" was created to address the urgent need to gather and analyze scientific data on sharks and rays in the Canary Islands. With 45% of species endangered and 20% lacking sufficient data, immediate action is essential.

Project Objectives

The project focuses on collecting and analyzing data on 78 species of elasmobranchs in the Canary Islands to identify threats and information gaps, developing a vulnerability map. It will also promote a consensus-based conservation strategy and encourage outreach and environmental education.

Benefits and Expected Results

Expand knowledge about the biology, ecology, and threats facing elasmobranchs.
Foster communication among all stakeholders for coordinated and sustainable action.
Reduce mortality and disturbance of vulnerable species through environmental education actions.

The integration of these efforts will enable the definition of effective protection measures and generate lasting alliances for marine conservation in the Canary Islands.

Nuestro Plan de Acción

Conservation strategy

Coordinate with scientists, authorities and economic sectors to develop a strategy based on consensus and the best available evidence.

Outreach and education

Raise awareness among the public, especially in the fishing and tourism sectors, about the importance of these animals for the balance of marine ecosystems.

Data review and collection

Review bycatch data provided by the Directorate-General for Fisheries and surveys of recreational anglers, and compile information on the number of fishing, diving and sighting businesses carrying out shark-related activities.

Workshops

Run workshops with fishers' associations, diving centers, sighting-tourism operators and the general public to share information.

Short film

Create and share a short film about the importance of protecting sharks and rays and the projects carried out in the Canary Islands.

Citizen watch

Promote citizen monitoring and provide means to report illegal fishing or activities harmful to these species through social media or the 112 emergency service.

Equipo

Alicia Herrera Ulibarri

Secretary and Co-Founder

Professor of Biology, Master's and Doctorate in Oceanography. Full Professor at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the area of Zoology and member of the EOMAR research group.

Maite Asensio Elvira

Oceanographer and Ecotourism Director

Marine Sciences graduate and environmental technician specializing in marine ecotourism. Director of Snorkeling Experience and coordinator of marine stewardship projects at Latitud Azul. Works to bring ocean knowledge to citizens through science and direct experience.

Mariam Lezcano Monzón

Social Educator and project coordinator

Social educator and coordinator of equality and co-education projects, and activist photographer.

Gara Franchy Gil

Treasurer

Graduate in Marine Sciences and PhD in Oceanography, she is currently devoted to conscious, sustainable cooking.

Kay Machín Benítez

Divemaster, photographer and sea enthusiast

Divemaster and photographer, in love with the sea since childhood. His experience as a diver has connected him with the need to act to protect it, giving visibility to what happens beneath the surface. He uses his camera to do his bit for sustainability from a close, real perspective. He has worked on a range of environmental and social projects. He currently works in audiovisual production for several companies and projects, including those of Latitud Azul.

Rayco Guedes Alonso

PhD in Analytical Chemistry

PhD in Analytical Chemistry from ULPGC, specialized in the study of microcontaminants in wastewater and their impact on the marine environment. His work combines academic research with direct environmental action, bringing scientific rigor to Latitud Azul projects.

Borja Aguiar González

Researcher at ECOAQUA - ULPGC

He trained in Marine Sciences, completed a PhD in Oceanography and specialised in Meteorology. He has worked in various institutions both in Spain and abroad. His work focuses on the monitoring of sharks and rays and the analysis of environmental parameters.