March 2016 – January 2017 Rufford Foundation
From March 2016 to January 2017, the Montenegrin Ecologists Society conducted research on the distribution and protection of the blue shark (Prionace glauca L.) in the coastal waters of Montenegro. Given that research of this kind has scarcely been conducted in our waters, there is very little scientific data on the blue shark and other shark species.
The blue shark, also known as the blue shark (Eng. Blue shark), is considered one of the most beautiful and widespread sharks in the world. On the global endangered species list, it is classified as near threatened, but in the Adriatic it is considered critically endangered. It is most commonly caught as bycatch in longlines and nets intended for tuna and swordfish. The blue shark prefers open and clean waters, so pollution and disturbance by vessels are the most common negative pressures affecting this species. As with most sharks, various measures are being introduced around the world to make the protection of this species more effective. In Montenegro, it is not listed among the protected species, which represents an additional problem for its conservation in our part of the sea.
The research, financially supported by the Rufford Foundation, had both a scientific and educational focus. The study collected basic data on the distribution and abundance of blue sharks. A list of threats present in its habitat was compiled, and data on other shark species in Montenegrin waters were also collected.
Fieldwork was conducted both during the day and at night, during the summer months, in cooperation with local fishermen. Several coastal locations were covered, primarily: the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, the waters of Budva, and the area between Bar and Ulcinj. Baiting methods were used.
One of the key activities carried out was informing local fishermen and the wider public about the issue of bycatch. Through collaboration with fishermen, a high number of blue shark catches and sightings was recorded, as well as of other shark species.
The blue shark is one of the so-called “umbrella species,” through whose protection and public education it is possible to enhance the protection and raise awareness of other shark species in the Adriatic. One of the goals of the project was to reduce the negative impact of media reports and news portraying sharks as dangerous animals, which are circulated every summer.
