Mary Allen
Introduction: Endangerment of Mako Sharks
Mako sharks are one of the most iconic and charismatic species of sharks found in the world’s oceans. However, they are also one of the most threatened with extinction. There are two species of Mako sharks, the shortfin and the longfin Mako, both of which are listed as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). These sharks are highly valued for their meat, fins, and sport fishing, and this has led to overfishing and habitat loss, making them more vulnerable to extinction.
Overfishing: A Major Threat to Mako Sharks
Overfishing is one of the primary factors contributing to the endangerment of Mako sharks. These sharks are highly valued for their meat, fins, and sport fishing, and are often targeted by commercial and recreational fisheries. The demand for their meat and fins has led to overfishing, which has resulted in a significant decline in the population of Mako sharks. The shortfin Mako shark, in particular, is one of the most heavily fished shark species in the world. The high demand for their meat and fins has resulted in unsustainable fishing practices that threaten the survival of these sharks.
Bycatch: Unintended Capture of Mako Sharks
Bycatch is another significant threat to Mako sharks. Bycatch is the unintended capture of non-target species in fishing gear, and it is a major problem in many fisheries worldwide. Mako sharks are often caught as bycatch in commercial and recreational fisheries targeting other species of fish. The use of longlines and gillnets in these fisheries has resulted in a significant number of Mako sharks being caught unintentionally. This unintended capture of Mako sharks is a major threat to their survival, as it increases their mortality rate and reduces their population.
Habitat Loss: Affecting Mako Sharks’ Survival
Habitat loss is another significant factor contributing to the endangerment of Mako sharks. These sharks are highly migratory and require a wide range of habitats to survive. However, habitat loss has resulted in a decline in the availability of suitable habitat for these sharks. Destruction and degradation of coastal habitats, such as mangroves and estuaries, has reduced the availability of nursery habitats for young Mako sharks. This, in turn, has led to a decline in the number of juveniles, which has further reduced the population of Mako sharks.
Climate Change: Impacting Mako Sharks’ Migration
Climate change is another significant threat to Mako sharks. These sharks are highly migratory and travel long distances in search of food and suitable habitats. However, climate change is impacting the migration patterns of these sharks. Changes in ocean temperatures and currents are altering the distribution of prey species, which is affecting the migration patterns of Mako sharks. This, in turn, is affecting their distribution and population size.
Pollution: Affecting Mako Sharks’ Health
Pollution is another major threat to Mako sharks. These sharks are apex predators, and as such, they are susceptible to bioaccumulation of pollutants such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants. The accumulation of these pollutants can result in a range of health issues, including reproductive problems, immune system impairments, and increased susceptibility to disease. Pollution can also affect the availability of prey species, as it can result in the destruction of habitats and the reduction of prey populations.
Illegal Fishing: A Growing Concern for Mako Sharks
Illegal fishing is another growing concern for Mako sharks. These sharks are highly valued for their meat and fins, and this has resulted in a significant increase in illegal fishing activities. Illegal fishing can lead to overfishing, which can result in a decline in the population of Mako sharks. The lack of regulations and enforcement also makes it difficult to monitor and control illegal fishing activities, which makes it even more challenging to protect these sharks.
Lack of Protection: Mako Sharks Need More Safeguards
One of the biggest challenges in protecting Mako sharks is the lack of effective protection measures. Although these sharks are listed as vulnerable to extinction by the IUCN, they are not protected by many countries’ laws and regulations. The lack of protection makes it easier for these sharks to be overfished, illegally caught, and killed. The implementation of effective protection measures, such as fishing quotas, marine protected areas, and regulations on the trade of Mako shark products, is essential to ensure the survival of these sharks.
Slow Reproduction: A Challenge for Mako Shark Population
Mako sharks have a slow reproductive rate, which is another challenge for their survival. These sharks have a long gestation period and give birth to relatively few pups. This slow reproductive rate makes it difficult for populations to recover from overfishing and other threats quickly. The combination of slow reproductive rates and high fishing pressure has resulted in a significant decline in the population of Mako sharks.
Conclusion: Saving Mako Sharks from Extinction
In conclusion, the endangerment of Mako sharks is a complex issue that requires urgent attention. Overfishing, bycatch, habitat loss, climate change, pollution, illegal fishing, lack of protection, and slow reproductive rates are all contributing factors to the decline in the population of these sharks. The implementation of effective protection measures, such as fishing quotas, marine protected areas, and regulations on the trade of Mako shark products, is essential to ensure the survival of these sharks. It is essential to take action now to protect these magnificent creatures before it is too late.