Coastal sharks and rays in a marine protected area in southern Brazil

In southern Brazil, we investigated shark and ray capture records in an integral protection marine protection area (MPA) that allows fishing in that area. We found 10 shark and nine ray species, of which 88.5% and 66.2%, respectively, are endangered. Female adults and neonates of both sexes are abundant in the area, with records of stranding of large specimens, postcapture abortions and ovigerous capsules with fresh embryos on the beach. We suggest the application of continuous fisheries monitoring and an increase in guidelines on the capture of endangered species.

Automated summary

The research in a marine protection area in southern Brazil revealed that 88.5% of the shark species and 66.2% of the ray species are endangered. Female adults and neonates of both species are abundant in the area, with incidents of large specimens stranding, post-capture abortions, and ovigerous capsules with fresh embryos found on the beach. Continuous fisheries monitoring and stricter guidelines on capturing endangered species are recommended.