‘Living Fossil’ Sharks, Rays and Whale Sharks Get a Lifeline amid Extinction Threat

‘Living Fossil’ Sharks, Rays and Whale Sharks Get a Lifeline amid Extinction Threat

By Claire Cameron edited by Jeanna Bryner

A mysterious species of deepwater shark that has been increasingly threatened with extinction for years was thrown a lifeline Friday after the global body that regulates the international endangered species trade introduced new protections to curb its hunting.

Gulper sharks have lived in the world’s deep ocean, typically at depths below 200 meters, for millions of years. They are primarily exploited for their livers, which are rich in a chemical compound called squalene used to manufacture cosmetics and other products. The new protections regulate trade of the species across borders and improve monitoring standards.

Friday’s announcement marks the first time that deepwater shark species have been added to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora’s lists of regulated species. These deep-sea species are particularly vulnerable to exploitation because they are slow to mature, have long lifespans and produce small litters. Deepwater fishing is also becoming increasingly common, potentially endangering these species even more.

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Other iconic marine animals, including whale sharks, oceanic whitetip sharks and manta rays, were also added to a list that bans all the commercial trade of their species or by-products.

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