This suggests that white shark numbers have remained constant since they were given protection in 1991. Overall, there appears to be a stable trend. There were declines at some locations others showed increases or stability. Our investigation revealed significant differences in the abundance at primary gathering sites. We examined the trends over time in abundance and shifts in distribution across the sharks’ South African range. To investigate this problem, we undertook an extensive study using data collected by scientists, tour operators and shore anglers. Marine biologists like us needed to know whether the decline in shark numbers in the Western Cape indicated changes in the whole South African population or whether the sharks had moved to a different location. Their presence influences the behaviour of other marine animals, affecting the entire ecosystem’s structure and stability. As top predators, they help maintain the health and balance of marine food webs. These declines have sparked concerns about the overall conservation status of the species.Ĭonserving great white sharks is vital because they have a pivotal role in marine ecosystems. In Cape Town, skilled “shark spotters” documented a peak of over 300 great white shark sightings across eight beaches in 2011, but have recorded no sightings since 2019.
Sharks congregate at these locations to feed, interact socially, or rest. Substantial declines have been observed, however, in places where the sharks normally gather on the coast of the Western Cape province. South Africa is renowned for having one of the world’s biggest populations of great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias). Conserving great white sharks is vital because they have a pivotal role in marine ecosystems.Īrticle by Alison Kock, Marine Biologist, South African National Parks (SANParks) Honorary Research Associate at the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), Alison Towner, Marine biologist at Rhodes University, Heather Bowlby, Research Lead, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Matt Dicken, Adjunct Professor of Marine Biology at Nelson Mandela University and Toby Rogers, PhD Candidate at the University of Cape Town.
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