The scheme aims to improve the recording of species that are caught by fleets, to boost knowledge of individual shark populations

The scheme, run by the Co-operative, the Shark Trust and the commercial fishing industry, aims to improve the recording of species caught as by-catch

The project will supply training in species identification to improve recording of species such as the small spotted catshark, the starry smoothhound shark and the cuckoo ray and will include a range of practical support materials such as robust at-sea identification guides.

The data gathered will support sustainable fisheries management in British waters.

Chris Shearlock, Sustainable Development Manager at The Co-operative, said: “We know shark populations in British waters have declined dramatically in recent years but as little importance has traditionally been given to shark stocks compared to more commercial species, detailed information for individual species is hard to ascertain.

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