Shark fin sales may be driving protected sharks toward extinction

A Science Advances study led by Florida International University used DNA evidence to show that fins from several CITES-listed shark species remain commonly sold in Hong Kong, and the authors report widespread noncompliance with required trade reporting.

Researchers led by Florida International University report that fins from multiple shark species protected under CITES are still commonly available in Hong Kong markets. The peer-reviewed study, published in Science Advances, used DNA analysis to identify traded fins. The authors say many countries required to report trade under the 2014 CITES listings have not submitted reports. The research highlights several threatened species, including three large hammerheads, the porbeagle, and the oceanic whitetip. What researchers reported: - DNA analysis found fins from four of the five shark species listed under CITES in 2014 still commonly available in Hong Kong markets. - The authors report that 81 percent of shark-fin-exporting countries have not submitted the required CITES trade reports for these listed species. - The study identifies several countries that were flagged as likely involved in high levels of trade, including Spain, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, China, the Philippines, Ghana and Brazil. Summary: Researchers say the continued presence of CITES-listed shark fins in trade and the lack of reporting indicate widespread noncompliance that could place affected shark populations at elevated risk and alter marine ecosystems. Undetermined at this time.