Research project Towards effective monitoring for protection of sharks and rays in the Belgian part of the North Sea

General introduction

Certain shark and ray species are vulnerable and extra sensitive to fishing pressure and pollution, partly related to their slow growth and low reproduction rate. In the North Sea, the populations of these species have declined sharply in recent decades. The lack of detailed ecological information on their distribution and habitat use makes effective management and protection of elasmobranchs difficult, a global problem. The ELASMON project aims to fill this knowledge gap and to develop a sustainable management plan, with appropriate protection measures specifically for the Belgian part of the North Sea (BNS).

Research approach

The objectives of the ELASMON project are fivefold:

1. Merging and analyzing existing data to better understand the spatial distribution and habitat use of sharks and rays in the North Sea.
2. Developing a Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) camera method, as a non-invasive monitoring technique.
3. The use of this non-invasive camera technique to investigate the presence, habitat use and biodiversity of sharks and rays in the BNS
4. The use of acoustic telemetry and tagging techniques to map the spatial movement patterns of sharks and rays in the BNS.
5. Drawing up a knowledge guide and sustainable management plan for sharks and rays in the BNS based on the collected insights.

Relevance/Valorization

ELASMON supports the protection of sharks and rays by generating crucial knowledge and translating that knowledge into appropriate management measures. This project actively contributes to the Programme of Measures for the Belgian marine waters (2022-2027) linked to the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and Natura 2000 sites. By developing an effective management plan and using non-invasive monitoring techniques, ELASMON contributes to achieving good environmental status in the BNZ.

Financing

EFMZVA