Threatened Species

Even the biggest wonders of the sea...

are trying to survive on our blue planet.

As our oceans are suffering the devastating effects of human exploitation and climate change, various marine life are struggling to survive.

Here are some of the most threatened ocean species, and ways in which we can contribute in helping conserve their life in our oceans...

~Sharks and Rays~

(Chondrichthyes & Batoidea)

August 22nd, 2011

The truth about shark nets

The longstanding misconceptions regarding sharks are deeply ingrained, and deeply unwarranted. Heightened by the media with decades of fear inducing shark portrayals, the true nature of sharks has escaped most people and propelled a worldwide need to separate shark and man.

The belief that sharks are man-eating killing machines was once a sentiment shared across the globe. However, ocean lovers, explorers, and researchers who have dedicated time in the sea with these fascinating creatures know all to well humans are the fearsome predators, not the sharks. A vital top player in our oceans' ecosystems, sharks are powerful and graceful animals deserving of respect and humility. They have endured years of fishing, targeted hunts, and still today bare the harsh attacks from humans ceaseless in their quest to dominate and profit from these animals.

Protection from Sharks?

Traveling our world oceans, shark species are drawn to different coastal areas for specific reasons. Whether warm waters, abundant food sources, or mating locations draw in sharks, certain countries have special measures in place to control the permanent presence of sharks in their coastal waters.

South Africa and Australia are two nations well known to have dense shark populations living in their waters. "Shark netting" has been used on the east coast of Australia and in South Africa from as early as the 1930's as a measure to control and intercept sharks feeding along their coastlines.

Shark nets are used off some populated beaches in order to deter sharks, catch sharks, and simply lessen the likelihood of an attack on swimmers. Placed in the shallows close to shore, the nets are usually a few hundred meters long and placed below the surface set on the sea floor. Baited floats are occasionally used to attract sharks and this type of "drum-line fishing" is also responsible for attracting and killing various other species of marine life. The nutrient rich waters of Australian and South African coasts support thousands of sea animals which incidentally get caught in beach nets intended for sharks.

In Queensland, Australia, the shark netting program has taken the lives of 11,899 Great White sharks (a heavily endangered shark), Tiger sharks, and Bull sharks between 1975-2001. These indiscriminate nets were also responsible for killing 4,000 marine turtles, and 53,098 various marine species during this time.

Our understanding and scientific research findings have evolved over time to indicate shark populations are not only declining at a rapid rate, but we are the ones responsible for endangering this species' survival. Shark netting is a hugely out-dated program that is shown to reduce the likelihood of shark attacks, but these 'likely' attacks could also be attributed to the worldwide decline of sharks in our oceans. Conservation needs to take precedence over a destructive and cruel attempt at controlling a species' from living freely in its natural habitat. Sharks belong in our oceans, not in our nets.

Shark netting today

South Africa has responded to an increase in national concern over the negative consequences of a 'shark netting program'. In 1999 nets placed along the KwaZula coastline were reduced in length from 350kms to 29kms, certainly protecting the lives of thousands of sharks, turtles, dolphins, etc. However, along the east coast of Australia (New South Wales, Queensland) the shark program includes over 50 nets, and is continuing to capture vulnerable species of whales each year during an important winter migration period. The program is actually unknown to most people, confirmed by a survey resulting in 2% of Australians supporting the nets. The vast majority of people were completely unaware the nets were in place at their local beaches.

Australia and South Africa are the only countries still using the archaic shark netting program to protect swimmers from incidental shark attacks. These two modern nations surely know enough about our environmental challenges and realities to acknowledge the need for global shark conservation. With facts and data proving that sharks are no more a threat to humans than bee stings, these two nations could instead pour their energy and money into improving environmental education and ocean awareness. Sharks, and the world would greatly benefit from this.

Let's protect our vulnerable shark species! Eco-Odyssey is a shark-loving foundation, and would encourage everyone to become aware of the crucial role and countless ways sharks contribute to our living oceans. Visit the following sites if you would like to learn to love sharks too ♥

The Australian Marine Conservation Society: http://www.amcs.org.au/default2.asp?active_page_id=516

Sharkwater: The truth will surface: http://www.sharkwater.com/

Forest and Bird: Giving nature a voice (New Zealand): http://www.forestandbird.org.nz/what-we-do/campaigns/save-our-sharks

☛ Heartsforsharks, Shark Angels, Sea Shepherd, Sealliance are also great initiatives spreading shark love and education to us all...just a click away, visit their websites today☚

Sign this petition to help free sharks from nets on the Gold Coast of Australia:http:http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/heartsforsharks-supports-removing-shark-nets-on-the-gold-coast/

August 16th, 2011

Take an educated guess

Since the elusive practice of shark finning was brought to the word stage, a succession of organizations, groups and shark lovers have been raising awareness and creating a mass movement to save sharks.

The Documentary "Sharkwater" was a pivotal tool in bringing the beauty and grace of sharks into people's homes, while moulding the general perception that sharks are 'dangerous killing machines' into a genuine and truthful view that sharks are crucial apex predators the ocean cannot survive without.

A resource from the Florida Museum of Natural History (F.M.N.H.) brings educational and informative tools for finding facts and historical events relating to sharks. It is vital that the world understands humans are a much bigger threat to sharks then sharks are to us. Providing a web of reliable information from which people can make up an educated decision about how to view sharks is priceless.

The F.M.N.H.'s Ichthyology (branch of Zoology dedicated to fish) website is a vast resource encompassing research findings, studies on endangered species, and the International Shark Attack File. The latter is bringing together a worldwide compilation of all known shark attacks, helped by international workers, voluntary submissions from scientists and regional observers.

This section of the Ichthyology website includes games, interactive teaching tools, and the misconceptions humans carry regarding sharks species. The more factual informative we know about sharks, the more people will be inclined to participate in saving this irreplaceable animal.

To link to the "Shark File" and learn the truth behind global shark attacks, click here: http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/sharks/isaf/isaf.htm, or to visit the Ichthyology homepage, use this link: http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/

July 1st, 2011

Wonderful Whale Sharks

Thought to have lived on earth for over 300 million years, Ryncondon Typus (commonly known as the Whale Shark) is one of the ocean's most mysterious treasures. Capable of diving over 700 meters, reaching a life span upwards of 100 years, and migrating between the world's oceans, this curious spotty animal is also the largest fish on the planet.

Despite its size, often reaching over ten meters, the Whale Shark is part of the shark family. However, it mimics the Whale's filter-feeding behaviour and gentle nature, making this shark the perfect species to interact with in the wild. A growing tourism industry provides in-water human and shark interactions in their natural ocean environment. Areas like Western Australia, Mozambique, Philippines, and Honduras provide regular feeding grounds and migratory destinations for Whale Sharks, and some have entire communities based around their annual Whale Shark visitors.

Although swimming with marine animals in the wild, when carried out with consideration for the animal's well being, is not a detrimental activity, many invasive behaviours towards Whale Sharks today are. Possessing huge fins, this species has been a constant target in the shark finning industry, and when captured a set of Whale Shark fins can yield multiple thousands of dollars each. Coming to the surface to feed on Plankton, Krill, macro-algae, etc, make Whale Sharks very visible targets for money hungry fishermen. Many sharks have washed up on the shores or been found struggling to breathe after being stripped of all their fins and left for dead.

A new trend growing in popularity is the Aquarium trade of Whale Sharks. Found in multiple countries such as Japan, China, the U.S. and Taiwan, Whalesharks have been captured from the wild and now swim circles in massive public Aquariums. In Georgia, U.S., 4 Whale Sharks share one Aquarium with a depth of only 10 meters! In the open ocean, Whale Sharks can dive to nearly a Kilometre in depth, and cross open oceans during their life span.

Its not surprising that the average length of life for a Whale Sharks held in captivity is very short. 502 days, according to a study carried over 18 years watching 16 captive Whale Sharks in Japan, was the average time sharks survived in captivity. In fact, there is a 30% mortality rate in the 1st year of captivity for Whale Sharks, which clearly proves these animals cannot adapt or carry out natural animal behaviour within the confines of a fish bowl.

June 29th, 2011

When we consider a practice like Shark Finning, an act that is taking the lives of nearly 73 million sharks a year, a deeply biased outlook on the situation is required in order to support the act. For those directly linked to shark finning on a business, financial, and therefore personal level, sharks are given as much consideration as we give the remaining world of fish. Fishermen, salesmen, and restaurant owners all living from the industry of shark finning are likely to stand on firm ground that this practice should be regulated, not banned.

Like other species of marine life sought after by humans, sharks are at the mercy of our demands and decisions, and could keep declining at a staggering rate until we have taken the lives of too many. Fishing does affect the livelihood of millions of people, but so does an ocean incapable of maintaining healthy ecosystems. Sharks are a top apex predator because they have earned that role, and been a prominent force in keeping the ocean world in balance.

This article posted on the Canadian Broadcast Federation's website looks into the proposed ban on shark finning for the populated city of Toronto, Canada. It exposes the concerns of those involved in the industry, and what they feel are reasonable solutions to the growing opposition to shark finning.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2011/06/14/shark-fin-ban-businesses219.html

June 14, 2011

"Shark Fishing in Japan: a messy, blood spattered business" is an article posted by the Guardian UK, and highlights the prevalent shark finning practice in Kesennuma, Japan. This fishing town, only a few hours north of Tokyo, produces 90% of the country's shark fin goods, and also provides Japan with some of its favoured seafood species.

Fishermen in Kesennuma depend on the trade of shark fins to live, along with other lucrative fish like Tuna and Swordfish. They have little inclination to be environmentally sensitive or sustainably minded when the more they kill, the better the pay check. It is, after all, their job to fish, fin, and trade in order to ensure their livelihoods. But how long can this last when populations of sharks are on the fast decline, and there is no consideration of population growth rates, health of their ocean ecosystem, or practicing humane fishing methods?

February 11th, 2011 http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/feb/11/shark-fishing-in-japan?intcmp=239

To read more on shark finning, feel free to read up on our BLOG from February 22nd, which takes a look at the devastating practice and its effects on sharks:

http://www.eco-odyssey.com/blog/3/Saving-our-Sharks.html

June 16th, 2011

SHARKWATER is a thrilling documentary by Canadian Marine Biologist, underwater photographer and shark specialist Rob Stewart. This film takes us into the underwater realm where we get a glimpse into the true nature of the ocean's top apex predators; sharks. There is some sheer stunning underwater footage of sharks, their peaceful interactions with Stewart, as well as a moving look into the devastating practice of shark finning. This educational and enlightening documentary features Sea Shepherd's Paul Watson, and combined with active conservation efforts and political conflicts, SHARKWATER is an important film to watch.

Please link to the SHARKWATER website for more information on the documentary, Stewart, and multiple ways in which to can join the cause against shark finning. http://www.sharkwater.com/

~Dolphins and small Cetaceans~

(Delphinidae & Phocoenidae)

In the diverse ocean world, there are some species that stand out from the rest. Whether it is due to size, appearance or their role in the marine ecosystem, some animals are simply extraordinary.

Dolphins are among the most spectacular animals living in the ocean. They are complex communicators, phenomenal hunters, and part of loving family units. With power and agility, speed and grace, Dolphins dominate the underwater realm to perfection.

July 19th, 2011

Dolphins today live a very different existence than when they first entered the ocean some 50 million years ago. Although their global populations are not critically endangered, they are suffering vast killings at the hands of fishermen from around the world.

Few countries still participate in Whaling and other hunts directed at small cetaceans including dolphins, porpoises and small whales. However, some still do. These countries are carrying out deliberate and savage hunts on dolphins and small cetaceans, and mass killings are happening annually with no regulating body managing them.

Fishermen carrying out hunts on dolphins or Pilot whales are governing their own actions and left to their own devices out at sea. In reality, they are experiencing a limitless freedom to attack and kill these mammals. Our concern for dolphins and whales is most expressed in the belief that these animals are being ruthlessly slaughtered in certain parts of the world. This demands our attention and ability to react and protect these animals in the ways they deserve.

Threats to Dolphins

Spanning across the globe, populations of Dolphins are feeling the pressure of various threatening actions. Unfortunately, the fishing industry is responsible for harming dolphins due to some of their chosen fishing methods. An array of animals get caught in driftnets, and dolphins can become victims of by-catch along with so many other species of marine life.

Entanglement, pollution and habitat degradation, boat traffic, and low frequency sonar are other real occurrences hurting dolphin populations everywhere on earth.

Dolphins are one of the most sought after animals to poach from the sea and hold in captivity. Humans have completely justified the practice of removing an endless number of species from their natural habitat, and keeping them in makeshift reflections of their homes. Captive marine species experience a tremendous change of environment and space, often becoming stressed and sick as a result of anxiety over the trauma.

Ric O' Barry has been a longstanding integral figure playing a vital role in the evolution of dolphins in captivity, and was also one of the pioneers in learning how to teach dolphins to perform. In fact, his interactions with dolphins and working to train legendary "FLIPPER" dolphin behind the scenes led O'Barry to realize the profound intelligence these animals possess. He shifted his focus to dolphin conservation and protection. His close relationship and connection to dolphins convinced O'Barry of the right these magnificent and complex animals have to remain safe in their natural habitat.

O'Barry was part of the hugely successful "THE COVE" documentary, which goes on location to depict the gruesome practice of dolphin hunting in Taiji, Japan. The powerful scenes force us to face harsh realities regarding our fishing industry today, and more importantly unveils the unknown inhumane killings to the world. To learn more about this insightful film, please click to: http://www.thecovemovie.com/

Click here for more links with information about the world's reaction to "THE COVE" and the global debate regarding the Taiji dolphin slaughters.

http://www.care2.com/causes/activists-debate-taji-politicians-over-dolphin-slaughter.html

http://www.care2.com/causes/the-cove-wins-the-oscar-all-eyes-turn-to-japan.html

July 20th, 2011

Taiji, Japan

Japan has always been a country heavily reliant on the ocean for their primary food source, seafood. It is remarkable how many species of marine life the Japanese consume, and at what rate they require more stocks to fulfil ongoing demands.

Given the state of our Global fisheries, countries that depend on mass amounts of seafood to meet population needs are going to come up short in the near future. It is common knowledge that the world's fish stocks are suffering severely at the hands of aggressive and incessant commercial fishing fleets, and some of the ocean's most prized catches are struggling to survive.

In some parts of the world, fishermen still regard the ocean and its inhabitants as resources for humans to exploit, consume, and control. This type of thinking can lead to extreme and indecent behaviours at sea, often rendering ocean species helpless at the hands of violent acts.

In Taiji, Japan, there is an annual hunt part of the ritual called "DRIVE HUNTS", where fishermen chase, harass, imprison and kill about a 1,000 dolphins in the secluded harbours and coves of Taiji.

This tradition usually takes place in September every year, and until it received recent media attention, was a virtually unknown occurrence to the rest of the world.  Surprisingly, this annual dolphin slaughter has exposed a gruesome attack on one of our most intelligent marine mammals, and proved to be a completely unregulated 'cultural' practice.