A recent study reveals that most of the 122 crucial marine habitats for sharks, rays, and chimaeras across Asia are insufficiently protected, with only a tiny fraction falling within fully safeguarded no-take zones. These habitats host nearly a third of the world's shark and ray species, many facing extinction risks.
- Only 5.4% of Asia’s shark and ray hotspots overlap with marine protected areas
- Just 2.8% of critical habitats are in fully protected no-take zones
- Asia supports nearly one-third of global shark and ray species, many threatened
What happened
A comprehensive study published in Biodiversity and Conservation assessed 122 important shark and ray areas (ISRAs) across 19 countries and territories in Asia. The research found that only a small portion—5.4%—of these vital marine areas overlaps with officially recognized marine protected areas (MPAs). Even fewer, at 2.8%, are included in no-take zones where all extractive activities, like fishing, are prohibited.
These ISRAs cover more than one million square kilometers of ocean and sustain a substantial share of marine biodiversity, including nearly three-quarters of shark, ray, and chimaera species that are listed as threatened. Despite their biological importance, most of these hotspots have no formal legal protection, making them vulnerable to threats such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and coastal development.
Why it feels good
The study draws global attention to Asia’s essential role in supporting shark and ray populations, highlighting these marine areas as conservation priorities. By identifying habitats critical for breeding, feeding, nursery grounds, and migration, the research provides a valuable scientific framework to guide future protection efforts.
Spotlighting regions like Sri Lanka’s ISRA sites—which include rare and geographically restricted species—underscores the potential of targeted conservation to sustain biodiversity. This renewed focus on hotspot areas inspires hope that governments, conservation groups, and communities can come together to improve protections and secure a future for these important marine species.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye on the development of marine conservation initiatives influenced by the ISRA framework. As more countries and agencies recognize these critical habitats, expect new proposals for expanding marine protected areas and no-take zones in Asia’s oceans.
Engage with local conservation groups working on the ground, such as Sri Lanka’s Blue Resources Trust, which report the frequent presence of threatened sharks and rays in some ISRA sites. Supporting their efforts through advocacy or education can play a role in raising awareness and fostering stewardship of these vulnerable ecosystems.