Strengthening Angel Shark Conservation in the Southern Aegean Sea

Angel sharks are among the most threatened elasmobranchs in the Mediterranean, with all three regional species classified as Critically Endangered due to severe population declines caused primarily by overfishing and incidental capture (bycatch).

Recent records from the Cyclades and Dodecanese Islands identified the southern Aegean Sea as a potentially important habitat for angel sharks, while also highlighting significant knowledge gaps and the need for stronger conservation measures.

To address these challenges, the Strengthening Angel Shark Conservation in the Southern Aegean Sea project was implemented during 2020–2021. The initiative aimed to generate robust scientific evidence and translate it into effective conservation action by identifying key habitats, improving spatial conservation planning, and supporting evidence-based policy development for angel shark protection in Greece. Through collaboration with the Shark Trust and the Angel Shark Project, the project contributed to strengthening the scientific foundation for the long-term conservation and management of these highly threatened species in the southern Aegean Sea.