ABSTRACT

The marine environment is a challenging area within which to work. The vast- ness of the oceans and their three-dimensional nature creates a complex management problem, compounded by the mobility and diversity of marine species, as well as humans whose activities impact upon them. Yet because humans depend heavily upon the oceans for food production and other ecosystem services, including assimilation of waste, climate control and carbon sequestration, it is critical that they be appropriately conserved and managed. The risks of not doing so are enormous, not only in terms of human health and well-being, but the survival of other species as well — including sharks.