About This Project

The Northern coast of Somalia facing the Gulf of Aden is a hotspot of marine biodiversity. Gulper sharks which are a group of deep-water benthopelagic sharks with a worldwide distribution are among the routinely overfished in mid- and deep-water fisheries across Somalia's Gulf of Aden coast and some have shown a huge decline in their abundance. This research will look into the causes of the overfishing of gulper sharks along Somalia's Gulf of Aden coast.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Gulper sharks are slim, relatively long dogfishes with two dorsal fins bearing long grooved spines. They are among the most threatened deep-water sharks. They are caught as targeted catch in Somalia's Gulf of Aden fisheries, primarily for their liver oil, which is considered the most valuable of shark liver oils. In Somalia, gulper shark meat is completely avoided. So far, no research has been done in Somalia on the causes of the continued, intense Gulper shark fishery. Today, 75% of gulper sharks are assessed at a very high risk of extinction due to overfishing. I hypothesize that this study will address the causes of gulper shark overfishing and provide measures to put an end to it.

What is the significance of this project?

These critical baseline data will provide context to the intensive fishing of this endangered species, allowing fisheries managers to better understand gulper shark biology and ecology and develop sustainable practices. This study will also give a better understanding of the distribution and abundance of gulper shark species found in Gulf of Aden waters. Additionally, I'll hold side workshops and seminars to raise locals' understanding of the importance of gulper sharks to the marine environment.

What are the goals of the project?

This study's primary objective is to identify the factors contributing to the overfishing of gulper sharks along Somalia's Gulf of Aden coast. The target population, which primarily consists of gulper shark fishermen, will be interviewed in order to gather data for this qualitative research project. Lastly, I'll analyze the data I collected. On March 1st, 2024, I will begin this research and meet with gulper shark fishermen to collect data. I will also catalog gulper shark species which are mostly facing this overfishing.