EU shark fishing ban

Following scientific advice given at this month’s European Fisheries Council meeting, based on the EU Community Plan of Action for Sharks, the European Commission has elected to close all EU fisheries for the creature.

The move comes just weeks after the porbeagle, along with seven other shark species, was put forward for a CITES Appendix II listing, which would specify strict controls over fishing levels globally.

Ali Hood, Director of Conservation at Britain’s Shark Trust, has welcomed the EU move, adding that the EU Community Plan of Action for Sharks “should form the basis for further effective shark fisheries management and conservation in 2010”.

A full-bodied shark, the porbeagle is similar in appearance to the great white shark, a relative, and can grow to about 2.5m in length. It is distinguishable by a white mark on its first dorsal fin.

One of the most profitable of shark catches, valued for both its fins and its meat, the porbeagle has been fished at an unsustainable level for many years.

Related links
CITES protection sought for sharks
The Shark Trust
The Shark Alliance