South Australia has taken a landmark step in marine conservation by implementing a fishing ban on several endangered and critically endangered shark and ray species in its waters. Effective from December 16, 2024, this legislation marks a significant victory for marine biodiversity and sets a precedent for other regions to follow.
Comprehensive Protections for Vulnerable Species
The new rules prohibit both recreational and commercial fishing of critically endangered species, including the Whitefin Swellshark (Cephaloscyllium albipinnum), Oceanic Whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus), Grey Nurse shark (Carcharias taurus), and Green Sawfish (Pristis zijsron). Additionally, endangered species like the Greeneye Spurdog (Squalus chloroculus), Southern Dogfish (Centrophorus uyato), and Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus) are also protected.
In a groundbreaking move, the ban extends to all Stingarees in the genus Urolophus and skates in the genera Dipturus and Dentiraja. Many of these species, including the Whitefin Swellshark, Greeneye Spurdog, Longnose skate (Dentiraja confusa), Grey skate (Dipturus canutus), and coastal stingaree (Urolophus orarius), are endemic to Australian waters, making their protection even more critical.
“These endemic species are as unique as a koala and in just as much trouble, if not worse,” said Leonardo Guida, shark scientist at the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS). “It’s encouraging to see South Australia taking the lead to protect our threatened sharks and rays.”
Regulating Gear and Practices
Beyond species protections, the legislation enforces strict gear restrictions and catch limits for other shark and ray species. It also prohibits intentional harm or mutilation of aquatic wildlife, with violators facing fines of up to A$20,000 (approximately $12,500 USD).
This initiative responds to years of advocacy by conservation groups, researchers, divers, and community members. It also addresses alarming instances of mistreatment and unsustainable fishing practices, including the deliberate mutilation of sharks and rays.
“We’ve heard the concerns raised by stakeholders and the broader community about the risk of unsustainable fishing practices and mishandling of incidentally caught sharks and rays,” said Clare Scriven, South Australia’s state legislator. “These legislative amendments will ensure greater protections are in place.”
A Long Road Ahead for Endangered Sharks
While the new rules are a significant victory, they are limited to waters within 5 kilometers (3 miles) of South Australia’s coastline. Conservationists stress the importance of expanding protections to cover these species beyond state waters.
“It’s great these shark and ray species are now protected in South Australia, but it’s alarming that outside the state’s waters, these species can still be legally caught and sold for their meat, commonly referred to as ‘flake’ in fish and chips,” said Lawrence Chlebeck, marine biologist at HSI Australia.
Advocates are pushing for a federal decision to classify these species as endangered under Australian law, with a ruling expected by March 2026.
Shark Guardian’s Perspective
At Shark Guardian, we applaud South Australia’s commitment to protecting its marine ecosystems. This bold action demonstrates that with the right policies and community support, we can safeguard vulnerable species and promote sustainable fishing practices.
However, the fight is far from over. Protecting sharks and rays on a national and global scale remains a critical priority. We encourage governments, businesses, and individuals to join the movement for comprehensive marine conservation efforts.
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