MedSharks – Protecting Mediterranean Sharks

Founded in 2001 by marine journalist and conservationist Eleonora de Sabata, MedSharks is an Italian nonprofit organization dedicated to the research and conservation of sharks, rays and marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean Sea.The Mediterranean is home to a remarkable diversity of sharks and rays, many of which face serious threats from overfishing, accidental capture, pollution and habitat degradation. MedSharks works to improve scientific understanding of these vulnerable animals and turn research into effective conservation action.

Researching Mediterranean Sharks

MedSharks has conducted and supported research on several shark species, including basking sharks, sandbar sharks, nursehounds and spurdogs.Its scientific projects investigate shark movements, population distribution, breeding habitats and environmental threats. Research methods include field observations, photo identification, biological sampling and collaboration with scientists and local marine communities.Through projects such as Operazione Squalo Elefante and Project Stellaris, the organization has contributed valuable knowledge about some of the Mediterranean's least understood shark species.

Citizen Science and Conservation

MedSharks actively involves divers, fishermen, researchers and coastal communities in collecting observations of sharks and rays.This collaborative approach helps scientists identify important habitats, document rare species and improve the information available for conservation planning.The organization is also a partner in the European Union's LIFE European Sharks project, an international initiative running from 2023 to 2027 to strengthen shark and ray conservation across the Mediterranean.

Education and Ocean Protection

Beyond research, MedSharks promotes environmental awareness through educational campaigns, public communication and international conservation partnerships.Its work highlights the ecological importance of sharks and challenges the misconception that these animals are primarily dangerous predators rather than vulnerable species requiring protection.By combining scientific expertise, citizen participation and conservation advocacy, MedSharks helps protect Mediterranean sharks and rays and preserve the biodiversity of one of the world's most heavily impacted seas.

Photo Credits by: ©Medshark
http://www.medsharks.org/