SHARKLIFE
Established in 2005, Sharklife addresses the alarming exploitation of both shark populations and ocean fisheries in South African waters. We actively engage the urgent need for research and protection of many marine species.
Aim 1:
Develop a compassionate desire to conserve sharks by replacing the "Jaws" syndrome with positive understanding and respect.
Aim 2:
Reduce anthropogenic threats to over exploited marine species by increasing awareness and encouraging sustainable seafood choices.
Aim 3:
Evolve shark populations into sustainable living resources by promoting educational ocean experiences for all South African’s.
See our Projects Page for information on how we have been achieving our aims.
Why Conserve Sharks?
Maintaining the Balance
The role of the “apex” or top predator in an ecosystem can not be underestimated. The depletion or removal of sharks is likely to destabilize marine ecosystems and effect prey species in ways that cannot currently be predicted.
Maintaining Biodiversity
Biodiversity is the variability among living organisms and is critical to ecosystem health. Sharks play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity through influences on prey behavior and abundance.
Maintaining Genetic Fitness
Predators by nature target the 'easiest to catch' prey specimens. This invariably results in sick and weaker fish being caught first. Through this process the weaker genes are removed from the pool.
Sharks are Vulnerable
Sharks are typically slow growing creatures with low reproductive capacities. This means that high levels of unnatural mortalities can quickly push shark populations to the brink of collapse and ultimately extinction.
