Conservation Finished

Elasmobranchs of Las Canteras

Specific study of ray and shark populations at Las Canteras beach. Visual census, environmental education and outreach.

Las Canteras: More Than an Urban Beach

Las Canteras beach, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, hosts a community of elasmobranchs that goes unnoticed by most visitors. Small-spotted catsharks, black stingray, butterfly rays, and nursehounds share waters with thousands of swimmers every day.

Scientific Methodology

We conduct periodic visual censuses at the Las Canteras Bar, documenting abundances, sizes, and behavior of species. Data is analyzed in collaboration with the EOMAR Group at ULPGC.

Outreach and Education

We organize guided snorkel sessions, lectures at educational centers, and social media content to break stereotypes about sharks and promote respectful coexistence.

Impact

Censuses of more than 15 documented species
Over 500 participants in environmental education activities
Data incorporated into academic studies at ULPGC

Equipo

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.

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.