RAPID ASSESSMENT TOOLKIT 2019 TOOLKIT FOR AND RAYS CONTENTS

This project has been a collaboration between LEAD AUTHOR: the Centre for Sustainable Tropical Cassandra L Rigby, James Cook University and (CSTFA) at James Cook University, Australia, the chapter authors AUTHORS: who have given their time freely, and WWF. Cassandra L Rigby, James Cook University ABOUT WWF William T White, CSIRO National Research Collections Australia WWF is one of the largest and most ABOUT TOOL 1 TOOL 3 experienced independent conservation ABOUT THIS TOOLKIT 7 TAXONOMY 13 AND MARKET organizations, with over 5 million GENETICS supporters and a global network active in Sharon Appleyard, CSIRO National Research Plans of Action 8 1.1 Why use this tool? 13 SURVEYS 29 more than 100 countries. WWF´s mission Collections Australia International Plan of Action 8 1.2 What is taxonomy? 16 3.1 Why use this tool? 29 is to stop the degradation of the planet´s National Plan of Action 8 1.3 Method 17 3.2 What are creel and market natural environment and to build a CREEL AND MARKET SURVEYS Assessment Report 8 1.3.1 Procedure 18 surveys? 30 future in which humans live in harmony Cassandra L Rigby, James Cook University 1.3.2 Equipment 18 3.3 Method 32 with nature, by conserving the world´s William T White, CSIRO National Research 1.4 Technical level 18 3.3.1 Procedure 35 biological diversity, ensuring that the use Collections Australia 1.5 Cost 18 3.3.2 Equipment 35 of renewable resources is sustainable, Fran Humber, Blue Ventures Conservation 1.6 Regional shark and ray 3.4 Technical level 35 and promoting the reduction of pollution Victoria Jeffers, Blue Ventures Conservation identification guide websites 19 3.5 Cost 35 and wasteful consumption. WWF works to reverse declining shark populations BRUVS through Sharks: Restoring the Balance, Michelle Heupel, Australian Institute of a global initiative. Marine Science www.panda.org Colin Simpfendorfer, James Cook University sharks.panda.org

TAGGING AND TRACKING ABOUT CSTFA Michelle Heupel, Australian Institute of Marine Science Research within the Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture (CSTFA) CITIZEN SCIENCE focuses not only on the aquatic and DATA Andrew Chin, James Cook University aquaculture systems that produce food, DATA AND TOOLS 10 but also the industries and communities that utilise them. Multidisciplinary WWF PROJECT MANAGER: Data 10 TOOL 4 Ian Campbell TOOL 2 collaborations between our researchers identification 10 BAITED REMOTE provide the synergies to address substantial Species present 10 GENETICS 21 UNDERWATER VIDEO research problems in a way that individual WWF SHARK AND RAY INITIATIVE LEADER: Abundance & size 10 2.1 Why use this tool? 21 SYSTEMS (BRUVS) 37 research groups cannot. CSTFA provides Andy Cornish Stock structure 10 2.2 What is genetics? 22 4.1 Why use this tool? 37 research outputs for sustainable food Critical habitats 10 2.3 Method 22 Catch landings & 11 4.2 What are BRUVS? 38 production to local, state, federal and DESIGN AND PRODUCTION: 2.3.1 Procedure 27 description & effort 11 4.3 Method 37 international resource managers, both in Evan Jeffries, Catherine Perry – Swim2Birds 2.3.2 Equipment 27 Catch abundance 11 4.3.1 Procedure 42 government and in the private sector. Thus, Ltd www.swim2birds.co.uk 2.4 Technical level 27 4.3.2 Equipment 42 making us a key player in helping secure 2.5 Cost 27 aquatic food production in the tropics for 4.4 Technical level 42 HOW TO CITE THIS WORK: 2.6 Further information 27 future generations. 4.5 Cost 42 Rigby, C., Appleyard, S., Chin, A., Heupel, www.jcu.edu.au/tropical-fisheries-and- M., Humber, F., Jeffers, V., Simpfendorfer, aquaculture C., White, W., I Campbell (2019) Rapid Assessment Toolkit for Sharks and Rays. WWF WWF would like to thank Disney International and CSTFA, Conservation Fund and The Shark James Cook University. Conservation Fund for their financial and other support to the development COVER PHOTOGRAPH: and outreach of this Toolkit. © Beneath the Waves // Diego Camejo

3 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 CONTENTS © Antonio Busiello/WWF-US

TOOL 5 DATA TAGGING AND DATA MANAGEMENT 60 TRACKING 45 5.1 Why use this tool? 45 5.2 What is tagging and tracking? 45 5.3 Method 46 5.3.1 Procedure 52 5.3.2 Equipment 52 5.4 Technical level 52 5.5 Cost 52

APPENDICES APPENDIX 61 Appendix A: DMSO Recipe 61 Appendix B: Whatman® FTA ® Elute cards – DNA extraction 62 Appendix C: Creel survey example 63 TOOL 6 CITIZEN SCIENCE 55 INDEX 6.1 Why use this tool? 55 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 6.2 What is citizen science? 55 & REFERENCES 66 6.3 Method 56 6.3.1 Procedure 59 6.3.2 Equipment 59 6.4 Technical level 59 6.5 Cost 59

5 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 ABOUT THIS TOOLKIT

ABOUT THIS TOOLKIT

The world needs sharks and KEY FACTS rays. These predators are an essential part of healthy marine ecosystems; and they provide food security and income to millions of people, particularly in the developing world.

But sharks and rays are in crisis and SPECIES their future is in doubt. They grow OF SHARKS slowly, take many years to mature 507 and produce relatively few young, making them particularly vulnerable Action is essential to restore the to over-exploitation. After centuries balance. We need to manage the of coexistence with humans, in fisheries that interact with sharks and recent years many populations rays, reduce unsustainable mortality have significantly declined through and prevent further overfishing. overfishing, and a quarter of all species are threatened with To do that, though, we need a clear extinction. picture of what´s going on. Currently SPECIES OF we lack data on almost half of all shark RAYS AND EXTINCTION RISK OF and ray species, and there´s an absence SKATES 646 SHARKS AND RAYS of information on many coastal fisheries in developing countries.

That´s why this Rapid Assessment Toolkit has been created. It offers a suite of simple tools for collecting SPECIES OF the sound scientific data needed for CHIMAERAS the conservation and sustainable 49 management of shark and ray populations. The kit has been designed The species all have different for use in regions with limited distributions and life histories, capacity and resources, and it contains which means they are exposed practical step-by-step guidelines for to different levels of collecting data by a range of methods. pressure and have different ● Appropriate tools can be selected © naturepl.com / Alex Mustard / WWF Critically endangered: 25 species 2.4% responses to this pressure. To ● Endangered: 43 species 4.1% depending on the particular data gaps be able to manage a country´s ● Vulnerable: 113 species 10.9% relevant to local waters. sharks and rays for long-term ● Near threatened: 132 species 12.7% sustainability, it is crucial to ● Least concern: 241 species 23.2% The data collected will give a baseline accurately know which species ● for studying future trends in shark and are present within a country´s Data deficient: 487 species 48.6% waters and which species are ray populations, so fisheries authorities can address areas of particular concern captured in fisheries (that is, Fig 1: The IUCN Red List status of and determine the effectiveness of the catch composition). sharks and rays. Source data: Dulvy et their management efforts. al. 2014.

7 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 ABOUT THIS TOOLKIT

PLANS OF ACTION © Jürgen Freund / WWF

Concerns for the future of sharks and The IPOA encourages any state rays have been growing for some with fisheries that catch sharks and THE IPOA HAS FOUR time. In 1999, an International rays (either as target species or MAIN ELEMENTS: Plan of Action for the Conservation bycatch) to develop and implement 1. The conservation needs of some and Management of Sharks (IPOA) its own tailored National Plan of shark and ray species was adopted. It aims to ensure Action (NPOA, or Shark Plan). This 2. The maintenance of biodiversity the conservation and long-term should aim to assess the state of through viable shark and ray sustainable management of sharks national shark and ray populations populations and rays of all species and all types of and fisheries, and provide a 3. The need for habitat protection 4. The management of sustainable catch (target, bycatch, commercial, strategic framework for managing shark and ray fishery resources. artisanal, recreational). them in future.

THE SHARK PLAN SHOULD AIM TO ACHIEVE 10 PRINCIPLES: 1. SUSTAINABILITY 2. ASSESS THREATS 3. SUPPORT 4. STAKEHOLDERS 5. MINIMIZE CATCH 6. BIODIVERSITY 7. MINIMIZE WASTE 8. FULL USE 9. MONITORING 10. DATA

1 Ensure that shark and ray catches 4 Improve and develop 7 Minimize waste and discards from Data collection – and this Rapid Assessment Toolkit – contributes from directed and non-directed frameworks for establishing shark and ray catches in accordance directly to principles 2, 3, 6, 9 and 10.

fisheries are sustainable. and coordinating effective with article 7.2.2(g) of the Code of 2. ASSESS THREATS 3. SUPPORT 6. BIODIVERSITY 9. MONITORING 10. DATA consultation involving all Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (for 2 Assess threats to shark and ray SHARK ASSESSMENT REPORT  stakeholders in research, example, requiring the retention of populations, determine and To develop an effective Shark Plan with appropriate objectives, countries need to management and sharks from which fins are removed). protect critical habitats and prepare a Shark Assessment Report. This collates information on species present educational initiatives within implement harvesting strategies 8 Encourage full use of dead sharks and the fisheries that catch them, along with any data on catches, fishing effort and between states. consistent with the principles and rays. and existing management measures. It also identifies what data is missing, of biological sustainability and 5 Minimize the unutilized helping to guide future data collection within the broader Shark Plan.  9 Facilitate improved species-specific rational long-term economic use. incidental catch of sharks catch and landings data and IPOA: PRACTICAL GUIDANCE and rays. monitoring of shark and ray catches. 3 Identify and provide special The UN FAO offers guidance on producing the Shark Plan and the Shark attention, in particular to 6 Contribute to the protection 10 Facilitate the identification and   Assessment Report, including suggested contents. vulnerable or threatened shark of biodiversity and ecosystem reporting of species-specific Click here to view this information online. and ray stocks. structure and function. biological and trade data.

8 9 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 2019 DATA

need to be clearly described. They may be commercial, DATA artisanal or recreational; and may be comprised of a fleet of similar vessels in a single area, Any plan to conserve and diversity, which can be compared to is a group of individuals of the or a complex range of boats and sustainably manage sharks and other areas and used as a baseline to same species that live in the same gears working across different rays must start with good data. examine future trends. A fishery may area at the same time. Populations areas. Various vessels and gear This data will cover these areas: not capture all the species present in different areas are known as types catch different sizes and – other methods such as baited separate stocks, because there species of sharks and rays, so ● What different shark and ray species underwater video surveys and citizen tends to be little mixing between keeping up with this data is an are present in a country´s waters science may also be needed to build a them – if one stock is threatened important aspect of fisheries ● Which of those species are caught full picture. by overfishing, it´s unlikely that management. by fisheries individuals from another stock will ● How many are being caught move in to replenish it. For this CATCH LANDINGS Fishing effort – the amount of ● Whether and to what extent this reason, fisheries managers need to AND DISCARDS time and gear used to capture has an impact on the shark and ray know if there are separate stocks Total catch – in numbers and/or the sharks and rays – also varies populations. of a species: they can then be weight by species – needs to be widely, and is another key monitored and managed separately. measured or estimated for every dimension of fishery monitoring. In order to build up this store fishery, showing the removal of of information, the following The status of a stock can be more individuals and biomass from the essential data types need to be accurately assessed if its structure is ecosystem. The total catch includes gathered: also known: ie the sex, size, age and all sharks and rays landed, plus stage of maturity of the individuals ABUNDANCE AND SIZE those discarded at sea because comprising it. Abundance is the number of they have no commercial value individuals present from a given or aren´t suitable for domestic species – this is important baseline consumption. Even when they´re information to assess stocks. discarded at sea alive, some sharks Trends in abundance over time and and rays die due to the stress of comparisons in abundance between capture: the fate of discarded SPECIES areas offer critical information for catch at the time of release is CATCH IDENTIFICATION monitoring the health and status of valuable information. If possible, ABUNDANCE Correct identification of the different sharks and rays. Size data (typically the catch should be described by Catch rate, or catch-per-unit shark and ray species present in an length) is used to estimate the species, location, numbers/weight, effort (CPUE), is an indirect area is the first requirement for any maturity stage of specimens – this sex, length and maturity. measure of stock abundance data collection exercise. Species can helps to reveal stock structure, and CRITICAL HABITATS and is particularly valuable for be identified using whole and can also highlight critical information the long-term monitoring of Many species of sharks and rays visual keys (taxonomy) or by laboratory such as the presence of pupping or fishing impacts. Changes in have sites that they regularly use testing of samples (genetics). nursery grounds. the CPUE imply changes to for feeding, mating and giving stock abundance: if over time it birth. These sites are known as takes longer to catch the same ´critical habitats´, as the behaviour number of sharks and rays in a they facilitate is essential to the fishery, this indicates that stocks continued survival of the species are declining. However, regular © Daniel Versteeg / WWF – and it´s therefore very important surveys of gear and operational for fisheries managers to be aware FISHERY area are also needed to confirm of where they´re located. Nursery that CPUE changes are due to areas, where new-born or young DESCRIPTION AND SPECIES PRESENT STOCK STRUCTURE FISHING EFFORT abundance rather than other animals are regularly found – often changing factors. CPUE should Knowing all the species present in Shark and ray species may form in shallow inshore regions – are a All kinds of fisheries interact be calculated separately for each an area gives a measure of species separate populations. A population well-known example. with sharks and rays, and they stock, fleet and gear type.

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TAXONOMY

Authors: Cassandra L. Rigby, James DATA TYPE: Cook University; William T. White, CSIRO Species identification National Research Collections Australia Landings and discards species identification SHARK PLAN OBJECTIVES: 9. Improve species-specific catch and landing data, improve catch monitoring 9. MONITORING 10. DATA 10. Improve reporting of species-specific biological and trade data WHY WOULD YOU USE THIS TOOL? Taxonomy is used to identify shark and ray species accurately. A clear understanding of the species of sharks and rays present in a country´s waters and captured in its fisheries provides important baseline and monitoring data for conservation and fisheries management. WHERE WOULD YOU USE THIS TOOL? This toolkit is aimed at coastal fisheries, so most of the sharks and rays identified are likely to be coastal species. Coastal waters are typically defined as being to a depth of up to 40m. However, in areas where the ocean floor drops steeply below 200m coastal fishers may catch deepwater species, so these may also need to be considered during identification.

RARE SPECIES Occasionally, rare species of sharks and rays – ones that are not commonly encountered in the region in question – are identified. If this occurs, please inform the IUCN Shark Specialist Group at [email protected] – they´ll pass the information to the relevant scientists and projects.

FAMILIES WHAT IS TAXONOMY? OF SHARKS All living organisms are classified based on similarities in their structures and 34 evolutionary paths. The system is arranged in levels: organisms are divided into

© naturepl.com / Cheryl-Samantha Owen WWF major groups called kingdoms, which are then further subdivided into phylum, class, order, family, genus and species.

All sharks and rays belong to the class , meaning they have a flexible cartilaginous skeleton. Within this class, there are about 34 families of sharks and 26 families of rays.1

All species are given two-part scientific names through an internationally accepted system. The first is the genus name to which the species belongs, and FAMILIES is capitalized. The second is the specific name and is not capitalized. Both names 26 OF RAYS are written in italics, and the combination must be unique for each species.

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© WWF / James Morgan For identification purposes it´s best IDENTIFICATION to use scientific species names, as TAXONOMIC KEY EXAMPLE common names can vary by region GUIDES and may change over time. Using the right identification guide SAMPLE for the area where the sharks or Nevertheless, when taking samples rays are seen or captured makes for taxonomic purposes it´s also taxonomic classification quicker and WHOLE PART 1A useful to record the standard English more reliable. ANIMAL- PHOTO, FINS, GILL Gill slits on common name and the common FINS, GILL PLATES, It´s best to use a regional PLATES MEAT side of head; name used in the local area, as it body shark-like may be the only name with which identification guide if there´s one locals are familiar. available, as it will only include (Go to 2) the species present in that region, TAXONOMIC GENETIC IDENTIFICA- CANNOT Species are sometimes reclassified considerably cutting down the total SAMPLE TION GUIDE IDENTIFY in terms of genus or family number of possibilities that need to as taxonomists collect more be considered. This also reduces the information on them. The most chances of incorrectly identifying a accurate source for checking the shark or ray as one that does not in 1B currently accepted scientific name fact occur in the region. Gill slits on of a species is the Catalog of IDENTIFY SPECIES undersurface Fishes, available online at http:// As the name suggests, field guides of head; body researcharchive.calacademy.org/ are designed for use in the field – in flattened, ray-like research/ichthyology/catalog/ ports, at markets, on boats. They´re fishcatmain.asp a concise version of the regional (Go to Rays) identification guides, and can be Fig 2: Steps to identify sharks and rays SUMMARY printed on waterproof paper with photos of local species. Taxonomy is the science of classification: in this toolkit, it means Sharks and rays are used for their identifying shark and ray species HOW TO USE fins, gill plates, meat, cartilage, 2A by examining their visible physical TAXONOMIC KEYS skin and liver, so sometimes the characteristics, the most important Most shark and ray identification A single whole animal is not available for of which are shape (morphology) guides use taxonomic keys. These dorsal fin identification. Visual identification and colour. This is best done by are a series of steps focused (Go to 4) guides are available for the fins and comparing the whole animal – or a on a specimen´s distinguishing gill plates of some sharks and rays good quality photo (see p21) – to features, usually with two that are used in trade or are listed an identification guide or field guide choices: A or B. Most keys use as protected; although as with (see below) that shows the different illustrations, with arrows pointing meat, cartilage and skin genetic species and their main distinguishing to the features described in the A tools may be required for accurate features. Photos can also be sent and B choices. 2B to regional experts to confirm the identification to species level. Two dorsal identity of a species. Making the correct choice at each Many regional shark and ray fins (Go to 5) step of the key gradually narrows identification guides are available Taxonomic classification is a simple down possible options and for free online. You can find a list method, but it may not always eventually leads to the correct of some of them at the end of this Fig 3: Example first stages in typical shark and ray taxonomic key – later stages provide a conclusive result: some identity of a specimen. (It´s Taxonomy tool. not shown (figures from White et al. 2006) species look similar and are hard to worth noting, of course, that this tell apart. In these cases, it may be method only works if the species necessary to take a tissue sample for you´re trying to identify is in the genetic testing to correctly identify key in the first place.) the species.

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MAIN SHARK AND RAY FEATURES ● Presumed species identification ● Date of identification HOW TO TAKE A GOOD PHOTO FOR IDENTIFICATION ● Name of person who identified animal First dorsal fin A good photo can be used to Nostril Second Dorsal-fin dorsal fin Precaudal 2 identify a species, or verify an spine If possible, take a photo of Eye pit identification. Try to follow these Spiracle the animal even if it is identified, in Snout case further verification is needed. simple steps for the best results: If there are several animals to be ● Take the photo from above Caudal looking directly down fin identified, each animal should be given a unique sample identifier ● Use a plain, non-coloured, light Mouth Caudal background so the shape and Anal fin (USI): write this on a label and Labial keel details of head, fins and tail can furrows Pelvic include it in the photo (see fin Gill Pectoral Clasper be clearly seen SB-12062014-1 openings (males) Surveys, labels). fin ● Include a label in the photo If there´s no time to identify the to help distinguish different HEAD TRUNK TAIL shark or ray in the field, take good animals. If possible, use a photos of it with its USI. If possible unique sample identifier (see

Fig 4: Main shark features. Source: Compagno 2002 keep them together for later Surveys, labels), or place, Fig 6: Sandbar shark ( plumbeus) (Source: C. Rigby) laboratory identification, or if the date and name of animal. animal can´t be kept then take a VENTRAL DORSAL labelled genetic sample (see SHARKS

Rostral cartilage Genetics). A lateral (side) view is the best to Internasal flap Mouth Eye photograph a shark.* Lay the shark Shoulder Gill opening For all photos, record: on its side and straighten the body Spiracle ● Name of photographer and all the fins. These may need

Pectoral fin ● Location to be propped up (e.g. with rocks, ● Date paper etc) so they are parallel to the camera. Ensure the head is not Cloaca 3 Start with an identification twisted (see Fig 6). guide for the area where the Thorn Caudal fin shark or ray was caught. If none is Secondary images are often also Pelvic fin SB-14062014-2 (if present) 2nd dorsal fin available, use a global guide. Follow useful if the identification is not Swain Reefs, 12062014, (if present) Squatina albipunctata Clasper the guide´s taxonomic key, and certain. These vary depending on (male) use the key features to identify the the group, but they may include: 1st dorsal fin Caudal sting (if present) (if present) animal (see Figs 4 & 5). ● Underside of the head, including pectoral fins if possible ● Close-up of each dorsal and If only fins or gill plates are Fig 7: Eastern (Squatina Fig 8: Brown stingray (Bathtytoshia Fig 5: Ray main features. Source: White et al. 2017 caudal fin available, use a visual identification albipunctata) (Source: C. Rigby) lata) (Source: C. Rigby) guide to fins and gill plates but ● Close-up of teeth ideally also take a tissue sample. mucous layer. Lay the ray flat with one curve in the tail, near the spine, *Angel sharks, and ● Location of catch, including all fins unfolded. For skates, shark- then straight again. (See Fig 8) METHOD: TAXONOMIC are the exception: use a place name, latitude and longitude 4 If visual identification guides like rays and electric rays, align the IDENTIFICATION dorsal (top) image for these. (See Fig 7) if available don´t help to accurately identify dorsal and caudal fins. For those Useful secondary images may ● Depth it was caught at the species in question, take with long tails (e.g. stingrays, eagle include: 1 It´s always good practice to photos and genetic samples (see RAYS ● Date of capture rays, cownose rays), leave the tail ● Underside of disc record as much information as Genetics). Photos can be emailed A dorsal (top) view is the best to straight until the spine then curve ● Mouth and nostrils ● Gear type used possible about the shark or ray to to specialists for identification, and photograph a ray. If the ray is dirty, the rest of the tail upwards towards ● Lateral view of tail (when caudal ● Sex of the animal and length if be identified. If it has been taken samples sent to laboratories. rinse the body but be careful not the snout, as close to the disc apex find or skin folds are present) measured (see Surveys) in a fishery, try to record: to wash off any colour – this is the as possible – there should only be

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SHARK FIN IDENTIFICATION GUIDES ONLINE A number of guides have been developed to help identify shark species from their fins. These guides focus on species RESOURCES that are most common in the international fin trade, or that are of concern because of their conservation status. They use key features of the dorsal, pectoral and caudal fins; and include photos of fresh to partially dried fins. The fin guides have been collated and are available online for free download at www.cites.org/prog/shark/resources.php REGIONAL SHARK AND RAY GILL PLATE IDENTIFICATION GUIDES IDENTIFICATION GUIDES The gill plates of some mobulid rays are traded. Mobulid rays include two species of manta rays and six species of devil There are numerous regional shark and ray identification guides. rays – gill plates from manta rays and devil rays can be visually distinguished. There´s a free field identification guide These websites offer free downloads: available at https://cites.unia.es/cites/file.php/1/files/pew-manta-ray-gill-plate-id-guide.pdf CITES shark and ray portal: www.cites.org/prog/shark/resources.php The CITES website organizes the guides by FAO geographical area, species and language.

FAO International Plan of Action for Conservation and Management of Sharks:

www.fao.org/ipoa-sharks/tools/ipoa-sharks-documents The FAO IPOA website organizes guides by publication date. EQUIPMENT TECHNICAL LEVEL COST – LOW FAO Fishfinder Species Identification and Data Programme:

Taxonomic identification doesn´t – EASY Visual identification using taxonomic www.fao.org/fishery/fishfinder/publications require much equipment. In the field identification guides is the simplest and It´s useful to have some training in the The FAO Fishfinder website includes guides to many species, and it´s important to record as much data lowest cost option for shark and ray use of taxonomic keys, and knowledge organizes them by regional guides, field guides, pocket guides and on- as possible, and it´s worth preparing species identification. Many guides can of the main features of sharks and rays. board guides, species synopses and fact sheets. data sheets and labels in advance. You should familiarize yourself with a be downloaded from websites for free. region´s identification guides before Shark References:

Shark fin identification costs can be trying to use them in the field. http://shark-references.com higher as training is needed. However, The Shark References site provides detailed species descriptions with costs can be minimized by training Training in photography for identification links to relevant literature and identification guides. purposes, and recording useful field and the trainers – regional representatives laboratory notes, would be helpful. travel to a central location for training, and then train more agents in their respective regions.

CHECKLIST ● Measuring tape ● Gloves ● Identification guide(s) ● Regional field guide(s) ● Waterproof data sheets and TRAINING: SHARK FIN clipboard IDENTIFICATION ● Waterproof labels Training is recommended for shark fin ● Pencil and eraser identification, particularly for agents (e.g. ● Waterproof marker for labels customs officers) who are required to ● Camera with batteries, charger enforce fin trade regulations. Specialist (adaptor if needed), memory cards NGOs and the UN FAO can offer advice or mobile phone for photos and assistance on training of this kind.

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GENETICS

Author: Sharon Appleyard, CSIRO DATA TYPE: National Research Collections Australia Species identification Landings and discards species identification Stock structure SHARK PLAN OBJECTIVES: 2. Assess threats to shark populations 2. ASSESS THREATS 3. SUPPORT 9. MONITORING 10. DATA 3. Identify and provide special attention, in particular to vulnerable or threatened shark stocks 9. Facilitate improved species-specific catch and landings data and monitoring of shark catches 10. Facilitate the identification and eportingr of species-specific biological and trade data WHY WOULD YOU USE THIS TOOL? Genetic analysis provides accurate species identification from only a small tissue sample. It can be used when an individual animal is difficult to identify through visual examination (see Taxonomy), or if the whole animal is no longer accessible. Genetics is also used to confirm that a visual identification is correct.

In addition, genetic analysis is the main tool used to identify species from shark and ray products including shark fins, mobula gill plates, meat, cartilage, liver oil and skin. GENETIC ANALYSIS PROVIDES ACCURATE Genetics can be used to identify most species with certainty and is a rapid, reliable SPECIES IDENTIFICATION and relatively inexpensive method. The catch composition, landings and discards of fisheries can all be rigorously monitored using genetics. Numerous countries have used it to detect misidentified processed shark species in their fisheries; and it´s an effective tool for monitoring and law enforcement in the domestic and international shark product trade.2

Genetic methods can provide unique data on stock structure as well as population size and geographical distribution.3 This can be useful for fisheries managers in identifying, assessing and responding to threats to stocks – but the techniques involved in these analyses are more complicated than for species identification, and they aren´t described in this guide. GENETIC METHODS PROVIDE UNIQUE DATA ON STOCK STRUCTURE

© GGW / Shutterstock (INCLUDING PARENTAGE), POPULATION SIZE AND DISTRIBUTION

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CITES METHOD: GENETICS WET TISSUE SAMPLING Effective tissue sampling is crucial for The most common wet tissues sampled from sharks and rays successful DNA analysis. It´s important include fresh fins, gill plate tissue, muscle, liver, heart, eye and Fig 1: Sampling for shark tissue – do The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild not touch the tissue sample. (Source: to note the following points: tissue around the vertebrae. Fauna and Flora (CITES) aims to protect species of sharks and rays Sharon Appleyard, CSIRO) threatened by international trade. Trade in products from the listed ● Sample as soon as possible after 1 Take great care not to touch the tissue with fingers – wear species is managed through a system of permits and certificates to collection or access to the animals;  gloves if possible. ensure that the product is legally sourced, and that trade will not be try to keep the sampled tissue cold

detrimental to the survival of the species. and dry. 2 Cut a small piece of tissue from the animal: a 5mm cube or ● Sample tissues cleanly to avoid  150 milligrams will be enough. The tissue can come from More than 20 shark and ray species are listed under the three contamination. The knife/scalpel/ anywhere on the shark or ray, but an easy way is to take a Appendices to the Convention. They include sawfishes, hammerheads, blade/scissors used should be V-shape from the edge of the gill slit with scissors, or through thresher sharks, , white shark, porbeagle, silky shark, cleaned between samples, using the softer skin near the pelvic fin using a scalpel blade. Scissors oceanic whitetip shark, mobulid rays, freshwater stingrays and whale water or 70% ethanol. are best for taking clips from fresh shark fins. shark. The CITES listings are regularly updated and can be checked at ● Only include one tissue sample

www.cites.org/eng/app/appendices.php. (5mm cube or 150mg) from each 3 Place the sample in a screwcap tube. shark or ray per sample tube/envelope. Genetic analysis of shark and ray products can be used to separate CITES ● Place a label with a unique sample 4 Cover the tissue with 70-100% ethanol (ensure the ethanol Fig 2: Place tissue into a screwcap tube. from non-CITES listed species to enforce the trade regulations.  identifier (USI) into each sample contains no methanol). Alternatively, cover the tissue with a high- (Source: Sharon Appleyard, CSIRO) tube. If possible, the data sheet that salt-based solution, e.g. DMSO (see DMSO Recipe in Appendix accompanies the sample should have A). The tissue should not be more than one-third of the volume WHAT IS GENETIC to international databases of COI the date of capture, latitude and of the preservative in the tube. Water itself is damaging to DNA; sequences which contain known longitude location, name of person ethanol or high salt solutions dehydrate the tissue and help to ANALYSIS? species of sharks and rays. that collected the sample, sex of the preserve the DNA. A species´ genetic code – the animal and length if measured, and If there´s access to a -20°C freezer, tissues can be stored frozen information that makes it develop the presumed species identification. The most commonly used databases for up to a year – when sending them for testing, it´s important differently to all other species – is are the Barcode of Life Database ● Determine the most suitable to find a freight company that can transport frozen goods. controlled by DNA (deoxyribonucleic (BOLD – www.boldsystems. method of preserving and storing acid). DNA is found in every cell in org) and the National Centre for the sample. In general, if a tissue is 5 Ensure the sample is labelled with its unique sample identifier an animal´s body.  Biotechnology Information (NCBI – wet it should be stored in ethanol, (USI). Write or print the USI on a waterproof label and place ® www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). DMSO, squashed onto a Whatman it into the tube with the sample. If ethanol is used as the DNA is like a chain made of ® FTA Elute card, or frozen. If the preservative, only use pencil. Fig 3: Shark muscle tissue in screwcap repeating units of four nucleotide GENETIC SAMPLES tissue is dried, it doesn´t require any tube containing ethanol. (Source: bases: adenine (A), guanine (G), further treatment and can be stored Sharon Appleyard, CSIRO) Genetic samples for DNA extraction 6 Make sure the screwcap lid is well tightened. cytosine (C) and thymine (T). The in a tube or small paper envelope. can be collected from wet or dry order of these four bases is unique If it´s in a tube, make sure the tissue. The sampling method will to each species, and it´s this order screwcap lid is tightened. WET TISSUE SAMPLING depend on the country and access that´s examined to determine the to the samples, preserving solutions – WHATMAN FTA ELUTE CARDS species identification. and freezers. WHATMAN FTA If available, Whatman FTA Elute cards offer a number of advantages: Genetic analysis involves sequencing Wet tissues – such as fin clips from ELUTE CARDS a particular part of the DNA, usually ● Sampling and storage of tissue in one easy step freshly caught animals or muscle and One option for preserving and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, ● Suitable for use in the field and in areas with limited power, no liver tissue – are usually preserved storing wet tissue samples is to use known as COI. Sequencing is the freezer or access to preservative solutions in ethanol, high salt solutions or the specially developed Whatman process of determining the precise ● Reduces labour and transport costs frozen prior to being used for DNA FTA Elute sampling cards. These are order of the four nucleotide bases extractions. Dried tissues – usually designed to simplify the handling ● Room temperature storage, no need for freezing or buffer within COI. Fig 4: Shark fin clip (with a USI on a small clip taken from a shark fin and processing of DNA, and can be solutions label) in screwcap tube containing – don´t have to be stored in any used with little training – see below ● When a COI sequence has been Application and processing can be done in the field or laboratory ethanol. (Source: Sharon Appleyard, preservatives prior to analysis. for more details. established, it can then be matched ● Fast technology for analysis of DNA CSIRO)

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● Sex of the animal and length if Some sequencing companies are:

PACKAGING SAMPLES FOR measured ● BOLD ( www.boldsystems. ● Name and contact details of org)* TESTING person who collected the sample ● BGI ( www.bgi.com/global) Once genetic samples have been ● Preservative (if used) and dilution ● Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics obtained, they can be sent for and Material Safety Data Sheet ( www.ramaciotti.unsw. laboratory analysis. (MSDS)* edu.au/sequencing/sanger- sequencing) Each sample should be placed in an * If ethanol is used as the ● AGRF ( www.agrf.org.au) appropriately labelled and packaged preservative, ensure the package box. Dried fin clips and Whatman meets IATA Special Provision * If a sample is being sent for cards can be placed in an envelope. 180 for shipping non-infectious genetic verification of a presumed samples by air with small amounts visual identification, the BOLD Include as much relevant Fig 5: Caudal and dorsal fins of a shark. (Source: C. Rigby) Fig 6: Squash a small piece of tissue of ethanol (UN 1170) (Special Systems website taxonomy tab has information as possible for each onto the card. (Source: Sharon Provision in the IATA Dangerous details of sequencing laboratories Appleyard, CSIRO) sample. This could include: Goods Regulations – see below). available for particular species:

● HOW TO USE THE information in the space provided: USI www.boldsystems.org/index. ● Presumed species identification, ● Presumed species identification php/TaxBrowser_Home. CARDS: if there is one ● Location where the shark or ray SEQUENCING 2 Place the fin clip in either a COMPANIES 1 Either rub the FTA Elute card across ● USI number screwcap tube or in a small paper was caught (place name, latitude Prepared samples can be sent to a the caudal or dorsal fin of the shark, ● Date of capture envelope. Use one envelope per and longitude if possible) ´fee for service´ company for DNA or take a small, thin piece of tissue ● Location of capture (place sample. There´s no need for liquid ● Date of capture sequencing in a laboratory, the (e.g. fin, gills, muscle, liver, heart, skin name, latitude and longitude preservative for dried fin clip samples, ● Depth it was caught at first step in genetic identification. scrapings). Fins from recently captured if possible) although they won´t be damaged if ● Gear type used Costs and procedures vary, so it´s sharks can also be sampled in this way; ● Name of the person that they´re stored in ethanol or DMSO. ● Date of identification while frozen shark fins or meat should collected the sample ● Name of person that identified important to contact the companies be thawed and wiped dry before the animal first to find out what´s required. 3 As with all sampling, ensure sampling. The cards aren´t suitable for 6 FTA Elute cards can be kept in that scissors are cleaned with use with dried fins. long-term storage before the DNA is water or ethanol between extracted, but it´s important to keep sampling of individuals and use a SPECIAL PROVISION IN THE IATA DANGEROUS GOODS REGULATIONS 2 Use blunt end forceps to squash them dry. Cards should be stored USI for each sample. sampled tissue into a circle on the FTA at room temperature in a dark, dry Elute card. Clean the forceps between cupboard or drawer until they´re sampling different individuals, using required, preferably in a paper eDNA water or 70% ethanol. folder with small silica gel packs. A new technique for species Never store the cards in zip lock identification using environmental 3 If using the whole card with four plastic bags. In tropical climates, the DNA (eDNA) is being researched circles for one individual, take at least cards should be stored at all times and developed for sharks and two samples. If cutting the card in in an airconditioned room. rays. It uses DNA from skin, mucus half to use for two individuals, make and other tissues and cells left in sure the correct sample information is For information on extracting DNA the water. The technique is non- stored with each card half. It´s best not from the Whatman FTA Elute cards, destructive, meaning the animals to cut the card into four, as this does please see Appendix B. themselves don´t need to be directly not leave enough room around each sampled: they can be detected from circle to describe the sample. DRY TISSUE SAMPLING DNA analysis of a water sample in which they have recently been 4 After pressing the samples on to the Dry tissue samples are most present.4 The method is currently card, leave it open to air dry for 2-3 hours. commonly clips collected from beyond the scope of this toolkit, dried shark fins. but it may be useful in future when 5 When the sample is dry, close it has been refined and simplified. 1 Fin clips from dried fins should be the card and write the sample taken using scissors.

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To extract DNA from FTA Elute cards, some laboratory equipment will be needed: ● Punch tool and mat supplied with cards ● 1.7ml microfuge tubes EQUIPMENT ● Sterile water COST – MEDIUM ● Heat block Genetic sampling requires equipment Collection of tissue samples has minimal ● Centrifuge for taking the samples and storing the associated costs. Dried tissue (e.g. fin ● Agarose gels samples. In the field it´s important to clips) is the cheapest to collect, as no record as much data as possible, and preservative or FTA Elute Cards are needed. it´s worth preparing data sheets and labels in advance. Ethanol is the best preservative for genetic tissue samples, but it can be Fig 7: mtDNA CO1 sequencing in shark DNA – Forward and Reverse sequences. (Source: Sharon Appleyard, CSIRO) expensive and difficult to obtain in some countries. In such cases DMSO solution is a good alternative, although long- It helps if there are photos of the to an international database, the DNA ANALYSIS: term storage in DMSO is not advisable specimen from which the sample tissue sample or the extracted DNA and transfer to ethanol is recommended. THE PROCESS was taken, with the USI on a label. can be sent to BOLD ( www. TECHNICAL LEVEL – The identification of a species from the Prices of ethanol and DMSO solution This final step is best taken with a boldsystems.org), who will take MEDIUM vary between countries. Screwcap tubes DNA in a tissue sample involves both Tissue sampling is in itself a person who has expertise in shark care of the process for a fee. and boxes to hold 100 vials also vary in laboratory and software analysis. straightforward process, and can be identification. Generally, sequencing companies price internationally. do not undertake analyses for single CHECKLIST: undertaken after basic training on sample 1 First, the DNA is sequenced in a If there´s no in-country expertise samples; a minimum of 48 samples collection, data recording, storage and Whatman FTA Elute cards can be ● Knife/scalpel blade/scissors laboratory to determine the unique to generate the COI and match it is often required. transport of samples. A key consideration sourced from chemical supply ● Cutting board is to collect the samples cleanly to avoid order of its four nucleotide bases. companies, although prices may ● Blunt end forceps cross-contamination, and to keep them This produces raw F(orward) and vary. For example: CITES ● 70% ethanol for cleaning separated from each other at all times. R(everse) sequences. Most sequencing US$115 FOR 25 CARDS implements (can use a plastic It´s very important that the USI for the companies provide customers with US$525 FOR 100 CARDS If a tissue sample is collected from a CITES-listed shark or ray species and spray bottle) sample accompanies the tissue, and that these raw F and R sequences. needs to be sent out of a country for the (non-commercial) purpose of ● Tissues or wipes for cleaning and metadata (data on the shark species The cost of obtaining a species species identification, there are exemptions to the requirement for export drying implements and location associated with the tissue identification from a tissue sample or DNA 2 These F and R sequences then ● Paper envelopes and screwcap sample) is strictly maintained. permits. The national CITES Management Authority (MA) can provide the extract varies with the provider, the species tubes; sample boxes for the tubes need to be merged to generate appropriate documentation. and the quality of the tissue sample. Some a COI barcode, using sequencing ● Whatman FTA Elute cards; non- The subsequent extraction of DNA closely related species may need a second requires a specialized molecular software such as Geneious indicating classic card marker (e.g. NADH2 in addition to COI) The tissue samples should be sent from a scientific institution registered by the ● 70-100% ethanol (not containing laboratory (see Appendix B) and to confirm identification. Older or badly ( www.geneious.com). CITES MA in the country in question. A list of registered scientific institutions methanol) for tissue preservation trained technical staff. DNA sequencing stored tissue samples can require repeated around the world is available at www.cites.org/common/reg/e_si.html. If ● DMSO solution and analysis for species identification analysis, which can increase the cost. 3 The COI barcode of the sample there are no institutions registered in the country from which tissues need to be ● Plastic disposable pipette for requires specialist skills and training, Most sequencing providers run the can then be matched to COI specific laboratory equipment, software, sent, contact the CITES MA of the country to seek advice. filling tubes with preservative analyses on batches of samples, such sequences stored in free-to-use computing resources that include access solution as 48 or 96. Sending a large batch of international databases such as BOLD to the internet, and data repositories. Tissue samples from CITES-listed species must also be sent to registered ● Waterproof data sheets and samples is more cost-effective. and NCBI. This will genetically identify scientific institutions, so it´s important to check the status of genetic clipboard the exact shark or ray species from sequencing companies. ● Pencil and eraser FURTHER INFORMATION which the sample was collected. ● Waterproof labels For more information on the Genetics tool, please contact Dr Sharon Appleyard, Provisions to further simplify the export of scientific samples are currently ● Waterproof marker for labels Australian National Fish Collection, National Research Collections Australia. 4 As a final check, verify that the under consideration by CITES: for up-to-date information and advice, ● Camera with batteries, charger T: +61 3 6232 5458 E: [email protected] USI of the genetic identification contact the relevant MA. (adaptor if needed), memory W: www.csiro.au/en/Research/Collections/ANFC matches the sample collected. cards or mobile phone for photos

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CREEL AND MARKET SURVEYS

Author: Cassandra L. Rigby, James DATA TYPE: Cook University; William T. White, Species present CSIRO National Research Collections Stock structure Australia; Victoria Jeffers, Fran Catch abundance Humber, Blue Ventures Conservation Landings and discards Fishery description and fishing effort SHARK PLAN OBJECTIVES: 2. ASSESS THREATS 3. SUPPORT 2. Assess threats to shark populations 3. Identify and provide special attention, in particular to vulnerable or threatened shark stocks WHY WOULD YOU USE THIS TOOL? Creel and market surveys collect information on the sharks and rays being fished in a country, and monitor catches over time to detect any changes in the stocks.

● Creel surveys (also known as fisher surveys or landing site surveys) aim to assess the status of the resource being fished and estimate fishers´ catch and effort. Data collected includes area fished, fishing gear, species catch composition, length/weight of species, effort taken to catch species, costs of fishing, and income received from the sale of the catch. They´re a fishery- CREEL SURVEYS dependent form of sampling, since the species and sizes of sharks and rays being caught will depend on the gear used and the area fished.5

● Market surveys aim to collect data on the catch when it is sold. Information is obtained from those selling sharks and rays direct to the public or to traders, whether for subsistence or commercial purposes. Like creel surveys, market surveys collect data on species catch composition and length or weight of the species, but the focus is on the economic value of MARKET SURVEYS the catch rather than the fishery description and effort.

Both methods are particularly suitable for small-scale fisheries in developing countries as they´re inexpensive, require minimal equipment and can provide informative data. There are other fishery survey methods, such as on-board © Brent Stirton / Getty Images WWF-UK observers and research surveys, but these are more resource-intensive and are typically used in developed countries and large-scale commercial fisheries. DATA USE Data from these surveys can be used to assess the degree of threat of the fisheries to shark and ray populations by monitoring the species captured, the numbers/weights taken, and the level and area of fishing pressure. Changes in prices over time can reveal fluctuations in demand for shark products. The surveys also provide data on the stock structure of the species being captured by recording their sex, size and maturity stage.

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conducting interviews and collecting ● Costs and benefits to the and date. Sex, length and maturity This combined biological and USEFUL data, consider how the data will be community/region/country are also important. If possible, fisheries data informs stock collated, analysed, stored, summarized SURVEY DATA ● Fishery access/ownership each individual shark or ray landed RESOURCES assessments. These provide and presented to fisheries managers. ● Fishery history and local names should be examined, but where scientifically robust information to Identify team members, allocate for fishery areas there are large numbers a sub- Some examples include: GENERAL fisheries managers for the regulation responsibilities, train them if required. ● Identity of fishery decision- sample can be identified, measured White et al. 2014; Glaus et of fisheries to ensure shark and ray Develop a work plan and timetable. INFORMATION makers and weighed. The optimum al. 2015; Kaly et al. 2016; stocks are fished sustainably. Is there enough budget to cover all ● Perceived challenges/issues faced sub-sample size will depend on Humber et al. 2017; SEAFDEC necessary resources? The following data should by fisher community resources and the number of boats 2017; Johnson et al. 2018; Market and creel surveys are also always be recorded: and animals involved. Martins et al. 2018. useful for assessing the importance Local community members often ● Name and location of landing Individual vessel/fisher data: of sharks and rays to communities, make very good data collectors, but or market site (place name and ● Date(s) of fishing Sharks are often processed at sea regions and countries. Information consider factors such as literacy, latitude/longitude if possible) ● Location(s) fished and may be headed, gutted and ●  on how much food security and METHOD: CREEL AND education, age, social standing and Date ● Depth(s) fished finned at landing. The form in livelihoods depend on sharks other cultural considerations when ● Name of fisher/seller (optional, to ● Whether fishing alone or with which they´re landed needs to be and rays is essential in forming MARKET SURVEYS choosing a team. remain confidential) others (if so, how many?) noted, particularly when weights sustainable fishery management ● Gender of fisher/seller ● Name of main fisher (optional) are used to record the catch: ● Time of survey plans. 1 Define the objectives of the 4 Design and prepare the data ● Frequency of fishing trips conversion factors can then be survey, and decide if they´re best sheets. Depending on the context ● Name of data collector ● Gear characteristics and applied to estimate the biomass DESIGNING AN addressed by a creel or market survey, and local infrastructure, data can selectivity (gillnet height and captured. Where possible, identify EFFECTIVE SURVEY or both. either be recorded on paper or via FISHERIES DATA mesh size; hook type and size, the species: if needed, photos can a mobile phone app. When used distance between hooks and be taken for expert identification Creel and market surveys are Aim to describe the fishing fleets, 2 Design the survey(s). appropriately, mobile monitoring can fishing grounds and the importance baits, if wire trace used; trawl and tissue samples collected for focused on collecting stock and Determine what information needs to speed up data entry and produce of the fishery to the community/ net dimensions, cod-end mesh- genetic analysis (see Taxonomy catch data in coastal fisheries to be collected, and what questions will results ready for real-time analysis, size) and Genetics tools). provide advice to fisheries managers, region/country. need to be answered to obtain it (see avoiding the risk of a backlog of ● Day or night fishing fishers and local communities about Appendix C). paperwork to process. ● Duration of fishing, including the status of sharks and rays in their Relevant information includes: MARKET DATA soak time for nets and lines or area. This information can then ● Number of vessels Market surveys should collect data Consider how many repeat surveys will be 5 Conduct the surveys (see below distance trawled inform action and management ● Vessel home port and nationality that usually includes: needed to detect trends in the fishery and for data components to include). ● If specific gear is used to catch strategies. It´s important to clearly ● Gear characteristics and ● Source of sharks and rays for sale catch data. It´s rarely possible to survey all At the start of every survey, clearly sharks or rays define the purpose of a survey, selectivity (e.g. gillnet height and ● Form of catch: whole/trunks/ landing sites and markets: a well-designed explain the purpose, and ensure ● Average number and weight along with how the information will mesh size; hook type and size, fins etc survey will choose representative sites to you obtain prior informed consent of sharks and rays caught per be used and by whom. distance between hooks and ● Whether vendor pays for the give a realistic overview. from participants. Note that cultural baits, if wire trace used; trawl fishing trip sharks and rays – and if so, how protocols vary widely, and be aware ● Species of sharks and rays Fisheries, markets and cultural net dimensions, cod-end mesh- much Identify the main landing sites of of what´s appropriate: for example, in caught protocols vary widely, and it´s size) ● Price of each shark or ray species sharks and rays in the area. If there Fiji permission to interview fishers may ● Sex ratios of catch – what important to note that there´s ● Seasonal patterns in fishing (either whole or product) are several, select those that are most need to be requested from the village proportions are male/female? no such thing as a generic creel ● Fishing locality in relation to ● Costs of marketing: stall rental/ accessible, have space to work in, and chief, who designates which fishers ● Fate and number of discarded or market survey: each needs to distribution of shark and ray electricity/wages etc where there is cooperation from local will take part.6 If you´re likely to need sharks and rays (by species if be suited to its local context and stocks and other fleets ● Whether vendor processes the fishers and traders. Permission will to make repeated visits, consider if possible, including size and sex) appropriate for the interviewees. ● Type of habitat fished (e.g. sharks and rays also be needed from local authorities. you can offer anything in return for ● Shark and ray landing location This tool describes the types of coastal, coral , oceanic) ● How long vendor has been continued cooperation. and frequency fishery and catch data that may be ● Vessel power and size selling sharks and rays Research the market to ensure you´re ● Costs of fishing important to collect, along with ● Navigational aids to assist fishing ● Whether vendor sells sharks and aware of, for example, the usual time 6 Check and analyse the data, ● Average income from shark and some basic procedures for collecting (e.g. GPS) rays elsewhere – and if so, where of day for landings. Local contacts and report the results. This step – ray catch it, but there are also regionally ● Freezer/ice capability ● What percentage of vendor´s may be needed for this purpose. which of course depends on the nature specific resources which include income is provided by the sale of and purpose of the survey – is beyond survey questionnaires and methods Background research on fishery: CATCH DATA sharks and rays 3 Plan the logistics: who will the scope of this tool. Please see the for approaching villagers, fishers ● Economic and social dependence The key information to record is the do what, and when? As well as resources section for more guidance. and traders. on the fishery number of each species, location

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GATHERING KEY DATA ON INDIVIDUAL SHARK AND RAY SPECIMENS

DISC WIDTH These will indicate one of three SPECIES TOTAL LENGTH - STRETCHED male maturity stages: 3 Adult, mature – clasper IDENTIFICATION extending past pelvic fin tip, hard Wherever possible, identify shark and 1 along entire length TOTAL LENGTH - NOT STRETCHED Juvenile, immature – clasper rays in the catch or market by species very short, not extending past pelvic (see Taxonomy tool). Record local fin tip, flexible names and match them to scientific FORK LENGTH names to develop a reliable list of species present. MALE OR FEMALE? PRECAUDAL LENGTH SIZE

Fig 4: Disc width measurement of a ray. Fig 7: 3. Adult mature male. (Source: C. Rigby)

WEIGHT FEMALE Female maturity can´t be For sharks and rays weighing up to determined externally – 10kg, hanging scales are best – a dissection is required in basket can be used, with the scales order to examine internal adjusted for its weight. For large Fig 5: 1. Juvenile immature male. reproductive organs. Typically, species, weights are estimated – (Source: W. White and L. Baje 2014) one of five stages of maturity ensure estimates are noted as such. will be recorded: MATURITY 2 Adolescent, maturing – clasper extending past pelvic fin tip, not 1 Juvenile, immature – uteri very Fig 1: Male shark with claspers. Fig 3: Length measurements of a shark. There are different processes for completely hard, still flexible thin, ovaries small and without yolked (Source: NOAA) determining the maturity stage of (yellow) eggs male and female specimens. Length – sharks wedgefishes (Rhinidae), guitarfishes There are different ways to measure (Rhinobatidae), giant guitarfishes In case of uncertainty, take photos the length of a shark. Total length (Glaucostegidae) and electric rays for expert confirmation – don´t (stretched) is most common, where (Narcinidae, Narkinidae, Hypnidae, forget to clearly label each specimen the shark´s body is straightened with Torpedinidae). with a unique sample number

the top of the tail in line with the (see Labels). body. Fork length is used in some Disc width – rays larger sharks with less flexible tails, Make sure the ray is lying flat, MALE while precaudal length can be used with the dorsal (top) side facing An external examination of the if the tail is damaged. In all cases lie up. Coastal rays for which claspers is the simplest way of the tape flat, not along the body (the disc width is measured include determining male maturity. Two latter will curve the tape and give an stingrays (Dasyatidae), eagle rays criteria are involved: Fig 8: 1. Juvenile immature female inaccurate measurement). (Myliobatidae), pelagic eagle rays (Aetobatidae), butterfly rays 1 The length of the clasper in 2 Adolescent, maturing – uteri Coastal species for which total (Gymnuridae), cownose rays relation to the pelvic fin tip slightly enlarged at one end, ovaries length is measured include all (Rhinopteridae), mantas and devil Fig 6: 2. Adolescent immature male. becoming larger and small yolked Fig 2: Female shark. Claspers absent. sharks, sawfishes (Pristidae), rays (Mobulidae). 2 The degree of development (Source: White. W. and Baje. L 2014) eggs visible (Source: NOAA) (hardness) of the clasper

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Pregnant females: if a female LABELS MOBILE MONITORING specimen is found to be pregnant It´s essential to label individual sharks There are many apps and programs on dissection, it´s important to and rays when samples are taken available for recording data on mobile record data on the litter: or whole animals are kept for later phones or tablets. Some free options ● may have restrictions on user numbers Number of embryos in each examination. Labels should also be or form submissions, so it´s important uterus included when photos of specimens ● Number of male and female to consider a survey´s size and scope are taken at landing sites or markets before choosing which tool to use. embryos (see Taxonomy tool – photo). ● Length of each embryo EQUIPMENT TECHNICAL LEVEL Fig 9: 2. Adolescent, maturing female Options include:

Each individual animal or sample needs ●  Open Data Kit (ODK) offers No specialist equipment is needed – EASY BIOLOGICAL SAMPLES a USI so that site and biological data a free open source suite of data to conduct a creel or market survey. It´s advisable to appoint a survey 3 Adult, mature – uteri large along Some surveys include the collection can be linked to individual specimens in collection tools to use including the team leader and ensure that each entire length, ovaries containing large of vertebrae or dorsal fin spines for later processing. ODK app, called ODK Collect. ODK team member has had some yolked eggs ageing in a laboratory. offers an Excel template for form training in their role. Volunteers The same numbering system should creation – a free step-by-step guide can conduct interviews if they is available from Blue Ventures To remove vertebrae: be used across the survey, and work follow appropriate cultural equally for whole animals, photos, and toolkits. The guide also includes tips on choosing and training data protocols. 1 After the internal organs are parts such as fin clips or embryos. collectors, selecting equipment and removed, the vertebrae are visible troubleshooting in remote regions.

along the body cavity. EXAMPLE ● Ona ( https://ona.io) and Survey

CTO ( www.surveycto.com) allow 2 With a sharp knife, cut either Town and port name: use two forms to be built quickly and simply and CHECKLIST side of the vertebrae under the first initials to represent the place, e.g. AB then connected to an online server. Fig 10: 3. Adult mature female Date: day, month, year, e.g. ● Identification guide(s) dorsal fin. ● Tails was developed for small-scale ● Regional field guide(s) 01052018 tuna fishers in Pacific countries to Animal number: start at 1, ● Measuring tapes, plus calipers 4 Pregnant – uteri containing 3 Cut out (approx.) five vertebrae. record fishery data, but it can also be and give each animal a unique or fish measuring boards for embryos or large eggs used to record details of a large number sequential number smaller specimens COST – MODERATE 4 Trim away excess flesh and place of shark species taken as bycatch. vertebrae in plastic ziplock bag with a ● Scales Many identification guides can be

AB-01052018-1 is the USI for the downloaded from websites for label and USI (see Labels). ● Maps or aerial photos of the first individual animal sampled at fishing areas free. Labour costs and expenses AB Port on 1 May 2018. ● Waterproof data sheets and clipboard for transfers to market and survey 5 If possible, freeze vertebrae. If not, clean vertebrae of flesh as soon ● Waterproof labels sites will depend on the scope Write each USI on the datasheet and as possible – depending on size 5-10 ● Pencil and eraser of the work, but may be high in on waterproof labels kept with each minutes in mild household bleach will ● Waterproof marker for labels some cases. The other main cost specimen or sample. For photos, ● Camera with batteries, charger of surveys is likely to be related speed the process. write the USI in dark pen on a label (adaptor if needed), memory to phone running and software and place it next to the animal – Fig 11: 4. Pregnant female cards or mobile phone for photos licensing. If a genetic sample is required for the make sure it´s visible in the picture. survey, see the Genetics tool. For dissections 5 Post-partum – uteri very large but without embryos (birth recently ● Sharp knife occurred) ● Plastic ziplock bags

SB-12062014-1 Fig 12: Example questions from the OKD phone-based app. These questions repeat according to the number of sharks caught per fisher. Fig 12: 5. Post-partum female Fig 13: Piked (Squalus megalops) with label. (Source: C. Rigby) (Source: Blue Ventures)

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BAITED REMOTE UNDERWATER VIDEO SYSTEMS (BRUVS)

Author: Michelle Heupel, Australian DATA TYPE: Institute of Marine Science; Colin Species present Simpfendorfer, James Cook University. Abundance and size SHARK PLAN OBJECTIVES: 6. Contribute to the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem structure and 6. BIODIVERSITY 10. DATA function. 10. Facilitate the identification and reporting of species-specific biological and trade data. WHY WOULD YOU USE THIS TOOL? BRUVS surveys are a valuable tool for determining which species are present in an area and estimating relative abundance between areas. They´re a non- destructive sampling method that´s simple to repeat, reliable and cost-effective; and they´re particularly useful for large-scale sampling of sharks and rays in a relatively short time.

BRUVS sample the sharks and rays in an area without humans in the water, whose presence might alter the behaviour of the animals. This unique characteristic of the sampling method sets it apart from traditional visual sampling by underwater visual census (UVC). BRUVS have minimal impact on the environment.

The BRUVS tool provides a permanent visual record of the species community composition. It can also be used to survey the habitat in the sampling area. Due to their ease of use in a variety of habitats, BRUVS may record the presence of shark and ray species in areas that have not been covered by fishery surveys.

BRUVS can be used to study the effects of fishing and marine protected areas BRUVS (MPAs) by comparing the diversity and abundance of sharks and rays within PROVIDES A an MPA to those in similar nearby habitats exposed to fishing pressure. BRUVS PERMANENT VISUAL with two cameras (stereo BRUVS) can be used to accurately measure the size RECORD OF THE of sharks and rays. Length data is useful for estimates of maturity stage, which SPECIES COMMUNITY gives an insight into the population structure of the species in the area. © Samantha Sherman / JCU

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GLOBAL FINPRINT

The Global FinPrint project documents shark and ray populations in tropical coral reef ecosystems across the world. It provides important baseline data on species diversity, abundance and distribution across a large number of countries and reefs.

BRUVS data can be used to compare reefs with different features to determine the factors (e.g. habitat type, fishing pressure, prey fish densities) that influence shark and ray diversity and abundance. Global FinPrint has collected valuable information for Fig 3: Stainless steel BRUVS frame with detachable legs cabled-tied in place. Dive Fig 4: Acrylic BRUVS with a camera weights are cable-tied on each leg. Holes have been drilled in the legs to allow inside each plastic drain pipe. shark and ray conservation and management, and it can be made the frame to be set at different heights. A current-meter is attached to the back (Source: Vanessa Jaiteh) available for local use. end of the bait arm. (Source: Christian Sloater, Scubazoo)

ADVANTAGES: For all sampling designs it´s FRAME METHOD: BRUVS important to consider habitat type, ● Cheap to build and use The BRUVS frame can be of any size as this can have a strong influence ● Collect large amounts of data and style and can be constructed from on the species present. Complex ● Stereo BRUVS can measure lengths a variety of easily obtainable materials coral reef habitats are likely to have of individuals such as stainless steel, rebar, PVC pipe, different types and numbers of shark acrylic, plastic or timber. Detachable and ray species to those present in LIMITATIONS: legs make transport easier. DESIGNING THE open sandy areas. The habitat type ● Results are biased to species must be recorded, otherwise it´s PROGRAMME The frame needs to have weights attracted to bait, which may mean DESIGN PROGRAMME difficult to determine whether any Design the BRUVS sampling attached to its legs to keep it steady other species are underestimated difference in diversity is due to the Fig 1: BRUVS on seafloor with bait programme to address the objectives on the seafloor. More weights are ● Video does not work well in murky habitat or another factor such as the waters arm with bait bag. (Source: Michelle of the study. Consider the resources needed for lighter frames and in Heupel) level of fishing pressure. ● Footage analysis is labour-intensive available for equipment, vessels, stronger currents – shorter frames ● Stereo BRUVS require calibration and BRUVS deployments and analysis are more stable in the latter. Points of Stereo BRUVS are more complicated potentially expensive software of the footage. This will affect the attachment are needed for the rope than single camera BRUVS, with a type of BRUVS used, the number of and surface float. WHAT ARE BRUVS? camera mounted on each side of the CONSTRUCT BRUVS BRUVS and how many times they bait arm. They also require camera can be deployed. Finally, the frame requires a housing for BRUVS units combine bait to attract calibration before use, so a calibration the camera. This should hold it steady sharks and rays and an underwater cube is needed. Sampling designs vary: for example, during deployment but include a simple video camera to record what animals a comparison of species diversity method for attachment and removal. come to feed on the bait. The units and abundance between areas open CONSTRUCTING themselves consist of a frame with and closed to fishing will require a BRUVS UNITS BAIT BAG, POLE housing to hold a camera. A bait arm is different design to an assessment attached to the frame, which includes a A BRUVS unit is made of a frame, AND BAIT of species diversity and abundance bait bag filled with crushed oily fish. DEPLOY BRUVS bait pole, bait bag and a camera. Bait bags can be made from plastic across all habitats in an area. Testing All units deployed in a survey mesh, metal or PVC pipe with holes. In between fished and unfished BRUVS are placed on the seafloor with should be identical in size and areas with a lot of larger sharks, the use areas simply requires the same a surface float for retrieval. Their frames height off the bottom: most BRUVS of metal may prevent the sharks pulling number of BRUVS deployments in are weighted to ensure they don´t float are designed to stand 1m or less the bait bag off the pole. Bait bags are each location, while association or move. BRUVS are typically left on the above the substrate, and ideally often cable-tied to the bait pole. of abundance with habitat seafloor for 60-90 minutes and then the substrate should take up half requires representative numbers the field of view. The bait bag can The bait pole can be of any material recovered. Observers can watch the Fig 2: Stereo-BRUVS. (Source Steve of deployments from all available either be set on the bottom, or and usually extends 1-1.5m from the video footage to determine the species Lindfield, UWA, NOAA – Image VIEW FOOTAGE habitat types. and number of individuals filmed. courtesy of pifsc.noaa.gov) raised in the water column. camera.

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Any type of oily fish makes good A standard operating procedure bait, but always use fresh bait for should be followed in each Depending on the camera type used, video files may need each deployment and ensure it´s study to minimize the effects of to be stitched together prior to viewing and analysis. processed in the same way for uncontrolled factors. The key factors For example, Go Pro video files are segmented during all drops in a study (e.g. minced, to standardize are deployment time, recording and stored separately on the memory card. There crushed or chopped to release amount of bait and depth range. are freely available and/or low cost software programs to stitch video segments oil and increase attraction). It´s into a single file for viewing, but this must be done prior to analysis. important to plan how much bait Deployment times are usually from will be needed for each field trip, 60 to 90 minutes on the seafloor. (the maximum number of animals where it will be sourced and how it Each deployment typically uses visible at any one time). 5 Make backup copies of each BRUVS can be stored on a vessel. about 1kg of bait. Depth ranges vary video in case something happens to the depending on the research question original video footage. Portable hard 1 Record the habitat type the CAMERA – deployments deeper than 50m BRUVS settled in and estimate the drives are a good option for this. require a heavy frame and a light Any type of underwater video water visibility. source, and a winch may be needed camera can be used in BRUVS, to recover the unit. The length of but GoPro cameras are particularly 2 Run the video, and pause it when rope from the BRUVS to the surface popular. The footage needs to be a shark or ray is observed. float should be around 1.5 times clear enough for viewers to reliably the depth of deployment. In strong identify the sharks and rays it 3 Identify the species, and sex Fig 5: PVC pipe and caps with holes for bait to disperse attracts a currents this length may need to be contains. (Galeocerdo cuvier). (Source: Tonga-watch) if possible. If it´s difficult to exactly increased to ensure the surface float identify the animal, identify it to is not pulled under. Filming in high definition mode of the lowest taxonomic level possible 1080p and 30 frames per second – for example record the genus of If multiple BRUVS are deployed provides good resolution. Recording hammerhead (Sphyrna) rather than at the same time they need to be for 90 minutes at this setting will the species of hammerhead (e.g. Fig 8: Spotted eagleray (Aetobatus set far enough apart to minimize take up 20-25GB of storage space Sphyrna lewini). ocellatus) feeding. (Source: FinPrint) the possibility of sharks and rays on a memory card. swimming between them, resulting 4 Record MaxN when sharks or rays LABELS in individuals being counted more If a number of BRUVS are to are present in the frame. MaxN for a Plan an effective labelling system before than once. The distance between be deployed at the same time, species is continually checked during the start of the trip. This is likely to deployments will depend on the multiple cameras, memory cards include initials for the trip and location, study objectives – in the Global viewing, but it only increases if more and batteries will be needed, so individuals of a species become visible the date and consecutive numbers

FinPrint project there was a planning is important. Extra battery for each BRUVS deployment (see minimum separation of 500m. in a single frame. The highest MaxN for packs can allow the same camera Surveys – labels). Film the site label Fig 6: Multi-port charger. Fig 7: Deploying a BRUVS. each species from each video is used to be used multiple times in a single (Source: Samm Sherman) (Source: Cordio East Africa-watch) for analysis. MaxN is used to assess at the beginning of each BRUVS drop day. If BRUVS are to be deployed the relative abundance of species and using a slate information board (Fig 9). on consecutive days, video from can be compared among deployments, so they can´t move. Each stereo the memory cards will need to be habitat types and locations. This is a BRUVS has its own calibration that downloaded and camera batteries conservative estimate of abundance recharged overnight. Multi-port relies on maintaining the frame because more individuals may be chargers are useful to charge set-up and same camera on the left present in the area but they won´t be multiple batteries at once (Fig 6). and right side of the bait arm for each deployment. counted if they´re not in the field of VIEWING VIDEO view at the same time. Stereo BRUVS have two cameras FOOTAGE mounted at an angle – typically Camera technology continues to DEPLOYMENT A standard method of recording Due to the need to measure 7-8 degrees – on each side of advance as costs go down. Full- BRUVS are typically deployed from a boat. species and counting individuals individuals, analysis of stereo the bait arm. Because these spherical (FS) underwater videos After deployment, it´s sensible to keep the should be used when watching BRUVS requires purpose-built systems are used to make precise can record a 360° field of view, so boat at least 200m away from the BRUVS the video footage. Methods vary software. A commonly used option it´s likely that they´ll play a role in to minimize the potential effects of Fig 9: Site label filmed on a slate measurements, the cameras must between studies, but the most is EventMeasure ( www.seagis. be tightly fitted inside the housing many BRUVS in future. boat noise on shark and ray behaviour. board at beginning of BRUVS drop. widely used is to record MaxN com.au). (Source: Samm Sherman)

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DATA SHEETS Ensure data sheets are ready for use in the field. Standard BRUVS inclusions are: ● Date ● Location (place name and latitude/ longitude if possible) TECHNICAL LEVEL – ● BRUVS label (also filmed at EASY TO MEDIUM beginning of a BRUVS drop) BRUVS surveys are usually done as a ● Depth team, including someone to drive the ● Time in (when BRUVS lands on boat, someone to deploy and recover seafloor) the BRUVS, someone to record data ● Time out (when BRUVS leaves seafloor) etc. Team leaders should have some ● State of tide experience with BRUVS surveys – if ● Habitat not, then training is recommended in ● Bait type BRUVS sampling design, deployment ● Comments and analysis of footage. Video readers require good knowledge of shark and ray species, or access to a reliable identification guide.

EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST: ● BRUVS frames, bait arms, bait bags, ropes and surface floats COST – VARIABLE ● Equipment to assemble BRUVS (if The cost of BRUVS surveys will vary required) considerably depending on the location ● Underwater video cameras, camera and scale of the project. The major costs batteries, memory cards and chargers are likely to be in travel costs to the ● Camera housings study site, vessel time and personnel. ● Bait The cost of the BRUVS units themselves ● Weights will depend on the materials used. ● GPS to record drop location ● Depth sounder (or other method to Good quality high resolution video can measure deployment depth) now be gained from relatively inexpensive ● Waterproof data sheets and clipboard cameras. However, analysing videos is ● Waterproof labels labour-intensive and can take considerable ● Slate board time depending on the number of ● Video file-stitching software deployments and the number of sharks and rays observed on the videos. Purpose- © Tanya Houppermans Stereo BRUVS – in addition built software such as EventMeasure can ● Modified BRUVS frame assist with video data recording (and it´s ● Paired video cameras, batteries, essential for stereo BRUVS calibration memory cards and measurements) but at approximately ● Calibration cube AU$ 3,500 for video analysis software ● Stereo BRUVS software for size and AU$ 2,000 for calibration software analysis it´s a significant investment.

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TAGGING AND TRACKING

Author: Michelle Heupel, Australian DATA TYPE: Institute of Marine Science Stock structure Critical habitats SHARK PLAN OBJECTIVES: 2. Assess threats to sharks and rays, determine and protect critical habitats 2. ASSESS THREATS 3. SUPPORT 6. BIODIVERSITY 3. Identify and provide special attention, in particular to vulnerable or threatened shark and ray stocks 6. Contribute to protection of biodiversity and ecosystem structure and function WHY WOULD YOU USE THIS TOOL? Tagging and tracking provide valuable data on population size, stock structure and habitat use of sharks and rays. These are all important considerations in fisheries management, which aims to ensure fishing is sustainable.

Understanding stock structure is essential. A species population is often divided into different groups of individuals in separate areas: tagging and tracking data can identify these stocks, determining the extent of individuals´ movement and whether mixing occurs. They also provide information on distribution, home range (where sharks and rays live and move on a regular basis), migration pathways and habitat use.

Sharks play an important role in the marine ecosystem, and understanding behaviours associated with their movement enables improved protection of the ecosystem. Data from tagging and tracking helps stakeholders understand and identify critical habitat use of threatened species for effective conservation planning. Habitat use can be determined by overlaying movement position data on habitat information.

Tagging and tracking data can also be used to examine the movements of shark and ray stocks in relation to the spatial distribution of a fishery. This helps to assess the level of threat a fishery poses to the stocks, and to identify threatened stocks and take steps to protect them. FORMS OF TAGGING AND TRACKING There are a variety of ways to study the number of sharks in an area and understand their movement patterns. Three of the main options are external tagging, acoustic tracking and satellite tracking. Each provides different types of data.

● External tagging is used to determine how far an individual travels between

© Tanya Houppermans TAGGING the point of release and point of recapture. The data informs the scale of HELPS STUDY movement of a species, and is often used to estimate population size. SHARK NUMBERS ● Acoustic tracking is used to examine the movement patterns of individuals within AND MOVEMENT a defined area. Passive acoustic tracking of sharks and rays can provide long- PATTERNS term monitoring data on movement, residence and habitat use of individuals and populations. Acoustic receivers are deployed in the study area, then individuals are

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fitted with transmitters which the 8LIMITATIONS: level behaviour, and to estimate 8LIMITATIONS: data. Position data can be calculated Both types of tags have an antenna receivers record when the transmitter ● Only release and recapture mortality in some cases. ● The process is labour-intensive and based on recorded light levels, that sends a signal to an ARGOS is within range. information is obtained, no may be costly based on personnel although this can have errors of satellite used to track animals. information is gained about what 8LIMITATIONS: and vessel time. 60-80km. PSAT tags are mainly used The data transmission is relayed With active acoustic tracking, a the animal did between tagging ● Acoustic receivers and ● Collected data is for a single to study large-scale movements and to a ground station where it´s receiver is carried on a boat. Here an and recapture. transmitters are more expensive individual over a short time period. temperature and depth preferences. processed and sent to the researcher. individual is followed by the boat, ● Recapture rates are often low, than external tags. However, using a satellite can be a which records data on its location to limiting the data collected. ● Receivers need to be deployed SATELLITE TRACKING Fin-mounted SPOT tags track considerable expense. represent the movement pattern of and most need to be retrieved to Satellite tags are attached externally movement by sending a signal to a the tracked individual. Active tracking ACOUSTIC TRACKING obtain the data they store. to the shark or ray. There are two satellite every time the fin/tag breaks 4ADVANTAGES: provides detailed information about the ● No data is collected if an the water surface. They measure ● A single tag can provide data on Acoustic transmitters, also referred to main types: movement of an individual, but time individual moves outside the ● depth and temperature data, but long-range movements. as acoustic tags, are usually surgically Archival tags known as pop-off constraints typically mean the data is range of the receivers. satellite-linked archival tags (PSAT they don´t archive data. SPOT tags ● PSAT tags store data and implanted into sharks and rays. Each short-term (generally 24-36 hours). or PAT tags) provide relatively accurate position automatically upload summary data transmitter emits a unique sequence ACTIVE ACOUSTIC ● Fin-mounted tags, known as data of <250m-5km. However, they to a satellite. of ultrasonic pulses or pings. These ● Satellite tracking is used to study TRACKING smart position and temperature don´t record or transmit data when ● The tags don´t have to be physically unique signals can be detected when the long-range and broad-scale transmitting tags (SPOT tags) sharks or rays are below the surface, recovered to obtain their data. a tagged shark or ray swims within Active acoustic tracking uses the movements of sharks and rays. Some and thus there can be gaps in the range of an acoustic receiver stationed type of transmitters described satellite tags report in real-time when PSAT tags are programmed data depending on the behaviour of 8LIMITATIONS: on the seafloor. The receiver records above, but the ping rate is much the transmitter breaks the water to release from the animal at a the animal. SPOT tags are attached ● Satellite tags are expensive, the identity code of the tagged faster to allow an individual to predetermined date and float to via bolts through the fin which and satellite time produces an surface, while others store data on be followed. A boat-mounted individual and the date and time. This the surface. Once they reach the eventually corrode to allow the tag additional cost. temperature and light level which is receiver is used rather than a data is then used to determine where surface, they transmit summary data to fall off. This is a particularly good ● Data resolution is sometimes only delivered when the tag releases deployed receiver. The signal from individuals move and how long they to a satellite. If they´re physically tracking system for species that poor, so these tags are best from the animal at a pre-programmed the transmitter guides the boat spend in particular areas. The range recovered, their full raw data record regularly come to the surface and used to define migration-type time. Satellite tags collect data on to follow the movement path of of receiver detection depends on the can be downloaded. PSAT tags move large distances, such as tiger movements and are less effective movement over large distances, in the individual fitted with it. Active transmitter and habitat conditions. record light, depth and temperature sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier). for local studies. contrast to the limited spatial coverage tracking can also obtain data on the usually offered by acoustic tracking. Acoustic transmitters can be equipped depth and temperature an individual with additional sensors to transmit is swimming through. SAFE HANDLING OF SHARKS AND RAYS information on temperature, depth HOW DO TAGGING AND and acceleration, increasing the range The labour-intensive nature of Tagging procedures vary, but there are some basic points to remember ● Tagging a shark or ray often 7 TRACKING WORK? of behaviours that can be studied. continuously following an individual in all cases to ensure the safety of the animals: involves a team and requires EXTERNAL TAGGING through potentially changing practice, so plan in advance. weather conditions means most Designate roles for who is going Identification tags are attached 4ADVANTAGES: active tracking studies are short- to catch, tag, release, collect externally to the shark or ray. These ● A large amount of data can be term and not used for monitoring. biological data and record. have a visible number, contact number collected to define the movement Because of this, transmitters are ● Even small sharks can inflict or name of institute, unique to the tag patterns and habitat use of attached externally. This decreases injuries, so team members with that can be used to identify an individual individuals within the study site. the amount of time an individual is experience in handling and when it´s recaptured. By comparing ● An individual can be tracked for up handled, reducing stress, and also tagging sharks should train others the position and date of release to to 10 years, though transmission time depends on the battery life of means the transmitter can detach before a project begins. the position and date of recapture it´s ● Minimize handling during the the transmitter. after a short period since it will no possible to determine the distance the tagging process, don´t grip the ● Numerous individuals can be longer be needed. tagged animal has moved in that time. shark across the gills, and keep the tracked simultaneously to When an animal is recaptured, contact time that the shark or ray is out of understand population-level 4ADVANTAGES: the number or institute and pass on the the water to the minimum possible. movements. ● Less equipment is required than number, date, location. ● Choose the right size tag for the ● Long-term data reveals the presence for passive acoustic tracking, reducing equipment cost. shark, and take time to insert the 4ADVANTAGES: and residence of individuals ● Fine-scale data on exact locations tag properly. Wait until the animal ● External identification tags are low within an area to identify habitat of individuals can be obtained. settles before tagging it. cost and easy to apply. dependence, monitor population-

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fin rays can be tough and dart tags TAG DATASHEETS are used on sharks up to 200 cm TL. DART TAG HEADS Above this size, fin tags are typically Date USI Tag type Species Sex Length (cm) Lat/long Depth (m) Method capture Name more effective. Dart tags can have two types of head: plastic or stainless steel. Dart tags 02102018 AB-02102018-1 Fin C. leucas M 120 153.32-27.29 15 Line C. Rigby with plastic heads are inserted using a hollow stainless steel needle that 4 Record the tag number and any penetrates the skin and muscle (Fig 4). The tag remains in place when the additional detail on the data sheet. needle is removed (Fig 5). If the skin is difficult to pierce with the tagging needle, a small incision can be made with a blade to allow tag insertion. Careful record-keeping is essential. The following information should be recorded for all tagged animals: Stainless steel dart tags can be deployed in the muscle and don´t ● Unique tag number(s) ● Date of tagging ● Name and contact details for the necessarily need to be anchored in the dorsal fin cartilage. A stainless ● Type of tag(s) ● Location of capture (place name, person or institution that tagged steel dart head fits into a slotted point in a stainless steel needle. These ● Species latitude and longitude) the animal(s) can be mounted on a pole, hand spear or spear gun. The tag is inserted ● Sex ● Depth of capture at an angle towards the head of the shark with a strong, quick thrust.8 ● Length ● Method of capture The two rear points of the dart head should face downwards into the muscle on insertion (Fig 6). This method is used when either the animals are too large to handle or when it´s preferable to not bring the animal METHOD: EXTERNAL 4 Apply a tag to the fin using a Fig 4: Plastic-headed dart tag onto the boat. (approximately 10cm long) and hollow TAGGING specially designed applicator (Fig 1). tagging needle. (Source: Michelle Two types of external tags are used The tag has two pieces, male and Heupel) on sharks and shark-like rays – fin female (Fig 2), which clip together tags and dart tags. For ray species, through the hole in the fin. For sharks C. CINCH TAGS cinch tags are commonly used. or shark-like rays less than 120cm TL Each tag has a unique identifier (Fig 3) use a Dalton Rototag, and for 1 Cinch tags are primarily used number along with contact details individuals greater than 100-120cm TL on rays and applied through the Fig 1: Tag applicator for fin tags. for whoever tagged the animal. use a slightly larger Superflex tag. spiracle. Rays are either removed (Source: Michelle Heupel) When an externally tagged animal is from the water with a dip net recaptured, this person or institution 5 Record the tag number and any (<70 cm DW) or restrained next to can be contacted and provided with additional detail on the data sheet. the boat (>70 cm DW). Be aware the tag number and location of the of stingray spines when handling recapture. B. DART TAGS Fig 5: Dart tag in place on individuals and take precautions to an Atlantic sharpnose shark 1 Dart tags are primarily used on ( terraenovae). prevent injury (e.g. a towel can be A. FIN TAGS sharks and shark-like rays and applied (Source: Michelle Heupel) gripped over the spine). 1 Sharks or shark-like rays (e.g. at the base of the dorsal fin. Captured wedgefish, sawfish) can be fitted with individuals can either be removed from 2 Once an individual is secured or on fin tags. Captured individuals can the water (<120 cm TL) or restrained board the vessel, measure and record Fig 2: Rototag male (top) and female either be removed from the water next to the boat (>120 cm TL). its species identification, length or disc

(bottom) sections. (Source: Michelle (<120 cm TL) or restrained next to the Heupel) width, and sex (see Surveys). boat (>120 cm TL). 2 Once an individual is secured or on board the vessel, measure and 3 Insert cinch tag in one side of 2 Once an individual is secured or record its species identification, length the spiracle and out the other, then on board the vessel, measure and and sex (see Surveys). close it so it forms a loop (Figs 7). record its species identification, length

Cinch tags are applied using hollow and sex (see Surveys). 3 Insert the dart tag on the back of the shark at the base of the dorsal needle applicators similar to those used for dart tags. 3 When the animal is calm, fin so that the barb of the tag catches Fig 6: Dart tag with needle on punch a hole through the upper on the fin support cartilage (dart tags tagging mount and downward-facing tag points. (Source: Cooperative half of the dorsal fin using a leather inserted only into muscle tissue have 4 Record the tag number and any Fig 3: Rototag in place on a shark fin. Shark Tagging Program NOAA NFMS Figs 7: Rays with cinch tags. (Source: low retention rates). Accessing dorsal additional detail on the data sheet. (Source: Michelle Heupel) hole punch tool. (NOAA 2017)) Michelle Heupel)

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With thanks to VEMCO for supplying these images and its position is regularly recorded. to allow passive tracking of shark and The data from acoustic receivers This is, however, labour-intensive – ray movements (Fig 9). Deployment must be downloaded regularly. only one tagged animal at a time can patterns depend on the research Some require physical recovery, while be followed, and the presence of the question to be tested, ranging from others can download data through a vessel may influence how the individual grids covering an entire area to gates modem or satellite uplink – the latter moves. Often, data-logging acoustic that monitor passage through a options are more expensive than receivers are placed within a study site specific place.9 manual recovery.

SATELLITE TAGGING

Fig 8: Acoustic transmitters come in various sizes and configurations. Fig 9: Acoustic receiver. (Source: Fig 10: Pop-off satellite tags (Source: Innova Sea Systems Inc) Innova Sea Systems Inc) including dart tags. (Source: Michelle Heupel) METHOD: ACOUSTIC to taking the tags in the field. The fin or incision and push it in the direction of TRACKING dart tag is then attached to the dorsal the head until it´s completely within fin of the shark or spiracle of the ray the body cavity. To alleviate internal Most acoustic transmitters are surgically using the procedures described above. damage and decrease transmitter implanted internally in sharks and rays, rejection, the transmitter can be especially for longer term tracking 4 For internal transmitters, sharks coated with a combination of paraffin studies. External acoustic transmitters often enter a state of tonic immobility and beeswax. Close the incision with can still be used, but there´s a risk when rolled onto their back, and this surgical sutures fitted with cutting they´ll fall off or be damaged. Also, can be used to immobilize them for needles. Use new, sterile sutures for Fig 11: Pop-off satellite tags with Fig 12: Attaching PSAT tag with pole. Fig 13: Pop-off satellite tags including external transmitters can become dart tags and needle attachment for (Source: Juerg Brunnschweiler) dart tag mounted on a tagging pole. handling and surgical procedures. Roll each individual. fouled and cause tissue damage. pole. (Source: Juerg Brunnschweiler) (Source: Juerg Brunnschweiler) the shark or ray upside down, in a 7 After surgery is complete the 1 Sharks or rays can either be tank or tub of water if on board the A. PSAT TAG be attached into the dorsal shoulder programmed release time and individual can be recovered in the removed from the water (<120 cm TL vessel. Ensure its gills are submerged, The most commonly used satellite muscle using a nylon umbrella dart or date, external tag number and the water bath aerated with oxygen (if or 70 cm DW) or restrained next to the or use a hose to maintain flow of tag – and the easiest to apply – is nylon anchors using tagging poles. other tagging information. required). If secured next to the boat, boat (>120 cm TL or 70 cm DW). seawater over the gill. the PSAT or PAT tag (Figs 10 & 11). the animal can be rolled over to allow These tags are usually fitted with a 1 Sharks or rays can either be 4 Follow the instructions for it to recover. 5 There are a range of different removed from the water (<120 cm TL fitting an external dart tag, above. 2 Once an individual is secured or on dart and are attached near the first board the vessel, measure and record types and sizes of acoustic transmitters dorsal fin, as with external dart tags or 70 cm DW) or restrained next to the 8 Sharks and rays fitted with its species identification, length or disc (Fig 8). Select the correct size of (see external tagging, above). PSAT boat (>120 cm TL or 70 cm DW). acoustic transmitters are usually also TAGGING POLES width, and sex (see Surveys). Record transmitter relative to the size of the tags can be tethered to one or two tagged externally with dart or fin tags OR SPEAR GUNS the printed identification number of the study species. nylon-coated stainless steel leaders 2 Once an individual is secured or to assist in identification. If the animals are too large to acoustic transmitter prior to insertion or that are crimped to a heavy swivel on board the vessel, measure and handle or there´s another reason attachment. 6 Internal implantation requires and attached to a stainless steel record its species identification, length why it´s preferable not to bring training on wound suturing prior ACOUSTIC RECEIVERS dart head. Plastic-headed darts are or disc width, and sex. them to the boat, PSAT tags can 3 External acoustic transmitters can to field work. To insert the acoustic Sharks and rays can be actively followed also used in this same way by some be attached using a tagging pole be glued to external fin tags using transmitter, make an incision of 3-4cm in a boat after tagging. A research teams. For manta and devil 3 Prior to attachment, record or a spear gun (Figs 12 & 13).10 epoxy gel or secured to dart tags. This in length in the abdomen with a sterile and receiver are used to locate the rays (mobula species) PSAT tags can the PSAT model, tag number, should be done in the laboratory, prior scalpel. Place the transmitter into the signal from the acoustic transmitter,

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FOR ALL TAGGING ACTIVITIES ● GPS to record capture location ● Measuring board/tape ● Waterproof data sheets and clipboard ● Camera with batteries, charger, EQUIPMENT memory cards or mobile phone COST – VARIES CHECKLISTS for photos The cost of tagging equipment varies EXTERNAL TAGGING enormously from low-cost dart and Fig 14: Fin-mounted SPOT tag fin tags to expensive PSAT and SPOT ● Rototag and Superflex tags attached to the dorsal fin of a tiger tags. The cost of vessel time and fishing • Leather hole punch shark (Galecerdo cuvier). equipment to capture sharks and rays

(Source: www.himb.hawaii.edu/ • Tag applicator tool needs to be considered, as do labour ReefPredator/Tools.htm.) ● Dart tags costs since tagging and tracking is • Hollow stainless steel needle usually done with a team. B. FIN-MOUNTED SPOT TAGS ACTIVE ACOUSTIC Guideline costs for different tags and TRACKING equipment are included below, but bear These are more difficult and time- TECHNICAL LEVEL – in mind that these are estimates only, ● Acoustic transmitter tags consuming to attach because SKILLED and actual costs will vary considerably by mounted to an external tag they require the tag to be fixed Training is required for all aspects country and company. ● External tags and tagging with bolts, washers and nuts to of tagging procedures, including equipment go through the fin. Holes must be the methods of shark and ray EXTERNAL TAGS ● Boat-mounted acoustic receiver punched or drilled into the fin to capture and handling to reduce ● Fin tags – Dalton Rototag or ● GPS line up with the bolt holes in the stress to individuals and for human Superflex – AU$5 ● Data sheets for position fin-mounted tag. safety, and application of each • Leather hole punch – AU$15 recording of the tag types. Training should • Tag applicator – AU$0 ● Dart tags 1 Sharks and shark-like rays can include time in the field and PASSIVE ACOUSTIC • Hallprint – AU$1+ either be removed from the water hands-on practice with people • Tag applicator – AU$30 (<120 cm TL) or restrained next to TRACKING who already have experience ● Hollow stainless steel – AU$30 the boat (>120 cm TL). ● Acoustic transmitters of the method(s) employed. ● Surgical tools (scalpel blade, Internal implantation of acoustic 2 Once an individual is secured forceps, needle holders, sterile transmitters requires training and ACOUSTIC TAGS ● Scalpel handle and 100 blades – or on board the vessel, measure sutures) practice in surgical procedures such AU$30 and record its species identification, ● External tags and tagging as suturing. ● Sutures with cutting needles – length and sex. equipment ● Acoustic receivers deployed on AU$25/suture ● Acoustic transmitter – AU$ 350-500 the seafloor 3 Punch holes through the dorsal ANIMAL ETHICS ● Acoustic receiver – AU$ 2,000-3,000+ fin of the shark using a leather hole Animal ethics permits from SATELLITE TRACKING © Tom / WWF-Sweden Arnbom punch or cordless drill. scientific institutions are often SATELLITE TAGS ● PSAT tags or fin mounted SPOT required for the handling of ● PSAT tags – AU$4,000+ tags 4 Attach the fin-mounted satellite live sharks and rays. These ● Fin-mounted SPOT tags – ● External tags and tagging tag with the bolts and secure with ensure that standard operating AU$2,000-4,000+ equipment washers and locknuts (Fig 14). procedures are followed, ● Both PSAT and SPOT tags also require ● Drill or hole punch for fin reducing adverse effects to the satellite time: the cost varies depending mounted satellite tags 5 Record the tag number and the animals. on the number of tags deployed and ● Bolts, washers and nuts for the other tagging information. the amount of data transmitted. fin mounted satellite tags

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CITIZEN SCIENCE

Author: Andrew Chin, James Cook DATA TYPE: University, Australia Species present Abundance Stock structure Critical habitats Landings and discards 10. DATA 6. BIODIVERSITY SHARK PLAN OBJECTIVES: 6. Contribute to the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem structure and function 10. Facilitate the identification and reporting of species-specific biological and trade data WHY WOULD YOU USE THIS TOOL? Depending on the scope of a project, large numbers of citizen scientists can collect shark and ray data across large areas and time scales. As well as offering significant cost savings, the approach can be particularly effective for sampling sharks and rays since they´re generally highly mobile and patchily distributed, mostly in low numbers.11

A network of community members collecting data across a large area can provide valuable data on uncommon shark and ray species that are otherwise difficult and costly to sample.

Another benefit of using citizen science for data collection is that it engages the public and raises awareness of shark and ray conservation. The active participation of members of the public can build trust between scientific researchers and the community that can lead to greater acceptance of management and conservation actions.12 HOW DOES CITIZEN SCIENCE WORK? Citizen science is the collection of samples or data by community members for a scientific purpose. Participants are typically volunteers from the general public, and fishers often also take part.

Scientists are usually involved at some stage, most often in the design and analysis phases. There are three main types of citizen science projects:13 ● Contributory – designed by scientists with community members collecting data CITIZEN ● Collaborative – designed by both scientists and community members with some input by community into the data collection, analyses and outputs

© Jürgen Freund / WWF SCIENTISTS ● Co-created – scientists and community members work closely together through CAN COLLECT SHARK all project stages. AND RAY DATA ACROSS LARGE AREAS AND Most shark and ray citizen science projects are contributory. Fishers who record TIME SCALES catch data can be considered citizen scientists, as they too are community members collecting data for a scientific purpose.14

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Citizen science programmes can also be CITIZEN SCIENCE SUCCESSES linked to education programmes that include local schools, combining the monitoring aspect with education and outreach benefits.15

If they´re well designed, citizen science projects can provide high- quality data. This can include: ● Biodiversity – the species present and records of their occurrence and distribution Fig 1: Sawfish species Fig 2: Porcupine whipray ● Photo identification of individual (Urogymnus asperrimus) animals, particularly for iconic ● Citizen science data on the abundance of reef sharks in Palau has been species such as manta rays and shown to be comparable in quality to acoustic tagging data from scientists.16 whale sharks ● Presence of rare and uncommon ● The International Sawfish Encounter Database receives sightings of sawfish

species from the public to build greater knowledge of the species ( www. ● Shark and ray abundance, floridamuseum.ufl.edu/fish/sawfish/ised) monitoring of populations ● The Great Porcupine Ray Hunt used diver photographs to expand the known ● Catch data range of the little-studied porcupine whipray (Urogymnus asperrimus). 17

● Extent and/or condition of critical ● In the Caribbean, REEF ( www.reef.org) trained recreational divers to habitats identify shark and ray species and survey their numbers: the data provided over 15 years has helped scientists to monitor population trends.18 WHAT ARE CITIZEN SCIENCE PROGRAMMES Fig 3: Photos from citizen scientists enabling tracking of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) from their unique skin patterns. USED FOR? how this overlaps with the interests extend range and distribution and capabilities of potential citizen information. A good example is

useful for grey nurse sharks ( Grey Watch ( Citizen science programmes are diverse www. scientists in the area. For example, Shark Search Indo-Pacific ( www. and vary in scale from global monitoring taurus), sevengill sharks (Notorhynchus reefcheckaustralia.org/grey_nurse_ long-term abundance counts typically sharksearch-indopacific.org): people networks to targeted national projects. cepedanius) and leopard sharks shark_watch) – use volunteers to require a long-term commitment can upload photos with location data As such, the methods used depend on (Stegostoma fasciatum).21 process photos. which might be best provided by dive to the website, species identifications the research question and the capabilities tourist operators that repeatedly visit are verified by a shark and ray of local community volunteers. The citizen scientists are mostly In some projects citizen scientists also locations with a regular occurrence of taxonomist, and a living database is divers or snorkellers who submit record size and sex ratios, which enables a shark or ray species.19 updated with new species records Data can be collected by a variety photographs of the animals to a better understanding of stock structure.23 for an area. This information can of groups including NGOs, overseas website – naturally, this works best The most common type of citizen contribute towards National Plans volunteers, village communities and local for projects in areas with a tourism 3 To document species science programme is where people of Action. fishers. While methods vary, good citizen industry that brings people into close contribute photos to a project for abundance and distribution. science projects have clear objectives, proximity with the animals. In some The Great Egg Case Hunt ( www. various purposes. Citizen scientists 2 appropriate data collection methods that For tracking abundance and projects, such as Wildbook for Whale sharktrust.org/en/GEH_the_project)

also frequently help with censuses and suit the objectives, clear outputs, and migration of species such as whale Sharks ( www.whaleshark.org), the habitat mapping. engages beachgoers, divers and transparency about all aspects of the sharks and manta rays. The skin system sends an email to the submitter snorkellers to photograph and collect patterns of these species are unique project including the role of participants PHOTOGRAPHY and notifies them if the animal they empty shark and skate egg cases found and how the data will be used. to each individual, which enables photographed is seen again. on the beach or underwater. The Photography is used for a range of identification of particular animals. In project began in the United Kingdom To decide if citizen science can be purposes in shark and ray citizen effect, skin pattern is a non-invasive tag In large-scale global projects, such as and has expanded to receive photos a useful tool to collect information science projects: that can be used in long-term for whale sharks, pattern recognition from around the world: scientists use

on sharks and rays, consider the resighting programmes to software can be used to identify the data to document the relative investigate movement, abundance species, habitats, locations and 1 To record the diversity of the animals and process large numbers of abundance and distribution of egg- Fig 4: Egg case in seaweed. (Source: 20 and habitat use. This method is also 22 timeframe needed for sampling and sharks and rays in a country and images. Smaller-scale projects – e.g. laying sharks and skates.24 ©Shark Trust)

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CENSUSES METHOD: CITIZEN and a consistent, standardized QA may include: than in how to follow data collection method for collection of the data.25 ● Training programmes for data protocols. Recreational divers may Citizen science is also commonly SCIENCE Design also needs to consider collection need training in how to identify and used to contribute to underwater 1 Clearly define the research community member needs and ● Standardized sampling protocols count shark and ray species. censuses. Recreational divers count question and objectives of the project. motivations to ensure participants and data sheets sharks and rays in a given area, and Investigate if there are current citizen will remain interested and involved. ● Equipment and appropriate training More complex projects may require scientists use the information to science projects with similar objectives Training in data collection and training in the use of standard data plot population trends over time. that could provide an opportunity to management may be required – tasks QC may include: sheets and data entry, and specific Most of these projects are regional EQUIPMENT collaborate. A good place to start is at that are too difficult or technical ● Expert verification of species photo equipment such as video cameras. or local: the Great Fiji Shark Count Most shark and ray citizen science registers that aim to connect scientists, risk low levels of participation. As a identifications Training may be required for data

( www.fijisharkcount.com) is a projects are based on photos provided by volunteers and citizen science projects. general rule, community participation ● External review of sampling design quality control, analyses and reporting. good example. community members. In those projects, is maximized when activities are easy, and protocols the key equipment is often a camera These include: fun and social. Assess safety risks ● Checks of databases for incomplete or mobile phone that belongs to the eOceans ( www.eoceans.com) ● Scistarter – https://scistarter.com and whether participants will need records or missing values community member. For larger, more provides a global platform for a ● Australian Citizen Science insurance to complete the activity. ● Development of a data complex projects, equipment will vary but number of citizen science shark and Association – www. management plan is likely to include standard equipment ray census projects. citizenscience.org.au 5 Organize funding and resources. for fieldwork and data collection. ● European Citizen Science 8 Collect the data and samples.

HABITATS Association – https://ecsa. 6 Plan and undertake engagement The manner in which this is done Citizen science can be a useful citizen-science.net. with the community and other will vary depending on the details of COST – LOW, approach for mapping and stakeholders (typically fishers and each citizen science project. Mobile DEPENDING ON SCALE monitoring shark and ray habitats. 2 Consider the types of data that associated businesses). This could apps can simplify data collection, Citizen science can be a low-cost Information from recreational divers are needed and the best tools for include creating information sheets or submission and validation. approach to data collection, with the and snorkellers can inform and gathering it – e.g. photos, surveys, a website, but ensure that information main cost being personnel time for assist spatial management of critical BRUVS, tagging etc. Decide over is presented in ways that work for 9 Enter data and perform QC on data entry, quality control, collation, habitats such as nurseries or mating what area and time period the project the community in question. It´s also the data. Analyse the results and storage, analysis and dissemination areas. Citizen science programmes will run, and estimate the time and important to consider any intellectual draw conclusions. Acknowledge CHECKLIST: of the outcomes. Projects that require such as Seagrass Watch ( www. resources that will be needed. Using property (IP) that may arise from participants´ contributions in the ● Regional species identification field large amounts of time, specialized seagrasswatch.org) and Mangrove this information, identify potential the project. Develop and document report of findings as previously agreed. guide training and/or equipment are usually Watch ( http://mangrovewatch. community participants – local NGOs agreement about authorship of reports ● Waterproof data sheets and more costly. It´s also important to org.au) have useful guidance on and existing programmes may provide and papers, access to and use and 10 Disseminate the findings to the clipboard factor in the cost of time taken to established protocols for mapping useful contacts. Select the best storage of data. community and stakeholders. Regular ● Waterproof labels engage community members and keep habitats. approach to the project (contributory, communication and feedback helps ● Pencil and eraser them informed about the project. collaborative or co-created) and scale 7 Design data collection quality participants see their data is being used ● Waterproof marker for labels it to match citizen science capacity. assurance (QA) and quality control as intended: this two-way information ● Camera with batteries, charger, memory FINDING (QC) protocols – QA focuses on the exchange is a common feature of cards or mobile phone for photos 3 Establish communication 27 VOLUNTEERS people and QC focuses on the data. successful citizen science projects. ● Snorkelling or SCUBA equipment and collaboration between The greatest concern scientists and Organizations including (for in-water surveys) the community members and managers raise about citizen science Earthwatch ( http:// researchers, and do due diligence on is the quality of the data, so to allay DATA MANAGEMENT earthwatch.org) and Projects the capacity and legitimacy of any these concerns the project must A person(s) may need to be Abroad ( www.projects- third parties (such as NGOs) who may demonstrate how the data will meet assigned to a data management abroad.org) can connect be involved. Mutually agreed project the standard needed to address the role. For example in the citizen community members with arrangements are usually necessary, project objective.26 Design appropriate science project on shark scientists running citizen which include defined benefits to the data systems: it may be useful to abundance in Palau, a dive science projects that encourage community such as assistance with explore online systems such as company office staff member was environmental sustainability. TECHNICAL LEVEL – community life. iNaturalist.org or specially designed made responsible for management They may also be able to provide mobile apps (see Surveys). Design, and administration of the survey LOW volunteers for in-country shark 4 Design the sampling programme. build and test databases (see Data following training in data entry and Most citizen science is undertaken by and ray data collection projects. It should have a scientific approach management). data maintenance.28 volunteers from the general public. Training is not usually required, other

58 59 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 2019 DATA APPENDIX A

DATA MANAGEMENT APPENDIX A – DMSO RECIPE

© Jürgen Freund / WWF Source of DMSO Recipe and FAQ:

HOW TO MAKE DMSO FREQUENTLY ASKED www.faculty.ucr.edu/~pdeley/lab/ This popular form of DMSO – known QUESTIONS: melissa/DESS_protocol_f.doc. as DESS – is useful for preserving genetic samples. It´s easy to make, if 1 There are crystals at the you follow this procedure. bottom of my solution: is this normal? INGREDIENTS Yes, the solution is saturated with NaCl 0.25M EDTA pH 7.5 and salt precipitates out of solution 20% DMSO (Dimethyl sulfoxide) once the liquid settles. If there is an NaCl saturated excessive amount of crystals on the bottom of the container, transfer the PROCESS solution to a new container leaving the NaCl crystals behind. Make sure the 1 Measure out 23.27g of EDTA disodium salt (FW 372.24) for a container is sealed tightly to reduce 250ml solution (this may be different the evaporation of the water in the depending on the FW of your EDTA solution (this helps to stop the NaCl salt). Add 50ml of deionized water precipitation). to the EDTA salt and stir. Make sure to use EDTA disodium salt otherwise The crystals may also appear at the more NaOH is needed to pH the bottom of the tube in which the EDTA. preserved samples are housed. Before use, samples can be rinsed in water to remove the salt and put back in DESS. 2 Make 1M NaOH to pH the EDTA. The EDTA should be around a pH of 3 or 4 to begin with. It will 2 How do I samples in DESS take about 50ml of the 1M NaOH to my colleagues in another state Whichever of the tools you´re to pH the EDTA to 7.5. The EDTA or country? working with, it´s important to 1 Identify data collectors, users and 5 Assign roles for ongoing data will then begin to dissolve slowly. a) Contact your local health and safety have a data management plan. stakeholders, and data needs. Identify management: Be patient, heating the solution to organization for an official letter of This ensures that the integrity data access requirements, data security. a. Entry 30°C helps. shipment, including the chemicals´ and usefulness of the data b. Cross-checks that the entered MSDS to be included in the package 2 Design the data collection format data matches the recorded data (i.e. MSDS for DMSO, EDTA and NACl). collected is maintained. 3 Once all the EDTA salt is and data sheets to suit the type of data. c. Analyses and back-ups of data dissolved bring the volume up to Include a statement from the shipper A data management plan should d. Dissemination 200ml with deionized water. Then about the content of the box and set out how data will be managed 3 Design an appropriate database e. Access, data confidentiality rules, add the 20% DMSO, which is 50ml general purpose of the material. both during a project and after its structure and data management security and protection of data for a 250ml solution. Return to a b) Seal all sampling tubes/containers by completion. It can be anything from a system for the required data standards. f. Long-term management. beaker and stir for a few minutes. tightly wrapping each one in parafilm very basic description for small projects Include data quality assurance and or using cyrovials with screwcap lids control measures. Consider if data can 6 Archive the data. The use of an to prevent leaking. Put sealed samples to a documented plan for larger, more 4 Add NaCl until it no longer complex studies. Templates and guides be hosted in the cloud, whether an open source data repository such dissolves – heating will help dissolve inside a plastic bag; place that plastic bag

for data management plans are widely electronic reporting app is appropriate. as Dryad https://datadryad.org the salt. Pour the solution into a in another plastic bag with absorbent available online. provides long-term storage and allows screwcap bottle, leaving most of material and seal. Place the bag in a box 4 Design an appropriate reporting the data to be accessed and used by the salt crystals in the beaker. The with additional packing material, seal, Common steps in a data system that presents and summarizes others to increase the knowledge base DMSO solution is then ready to use and send. Check with local air freight management plan include: the data. on sharks and rays. for sample preservation. companies as to requirements.

60 61 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 2019 APPENDIX B APPENDIX C

APPENDIX B – WHATMAN FTA ELUTE CARDS APPENDIX C – AN EXAMPLE CREEL SURVEY

DNA EXTRACTION 6 Add a further 100 μl of sterile When working with FTA Elute cards, water to the microfuge tube. Pulse Date...... completing the DNA extraction in- vortex the tube five times. Heat the Interview No. Day...... country and sending the extracted tube on a heat block at 95°C for Interview No. Total...... DNA to a sequencing provider for one hour. Village...... analysis will lower the cost of the sequencing. However, this needs Age of interviewee...... 7 Remove the tube from the heat to be done by trained people in a Gender of interviewee...... block and pulse vortex the tube 60 laboratory with equipment such as Are you a fisher?...... sterile water, heat block, centrifuge times. Centrifuge the tube briefly For how long have you been a fisher?...... and cold storage. at 13,000 rpm for two minutes. Transfer the remaining liquid to a Is fishing your main source of living?...... To extract the DNA from the FTA new microfuge tube. Where do you go fishing? (e.g. reef, river, coastline, ocean)...... Elute card: Do you see sharks in your fishing area? If yes, where? (e.g reef, river, coastline, ocean)...... 8 The liquid in the new microfuge ...... 1 Use the card punch and mat tube contains the DNA. Check Fig 1: FTA Elute cards with shark What gear do you use? (e.g. , gillnet, longlines, etc – select following questions depending on supplied with the FTA cards to take for quality using agarose gels tissues on the cards in two circles and gear type)...... 3mm punches from each circle: and quantity with tools such as two punches taken from each circle. Where do you put gillnets? (e.g. reef, river, coastline, ocean)?...... four 3mm punches are needed for Nanodrop, Qubit and Bioanalyser. each individual shark or ray. If two (Source: Sharon Appleyard, CSIRO) How long do you leave your gillnet in the water before checking it?...... Keep at 4°C for short-term storage, samples or circles were taken for -20°C for long-term storage, How often do you check your gillnet? (e.g. regularly, at the end of a fishing trip)...... one individual shark or ray, take 4 Add 500 microlitres (μl) of sterile and preferably -80°C for archival Where do you put your longlines? (e.g. reef, river, coastline, ocean)...... two from each of the two circles to water to the microfuge tube. Pulse give a total of four punches. If one vortex the tube five times. purposes. How long do you leave your longlines in the water?...... circle was used for one individual How often do you check your longlines ? (e.g. regularly, at the end of a fishing trip)...... 9 The DNA can then be sent shark or ray, take four punches 5 Using a pipette tip, squeeze excess What do you want to catch with your gillnet? (e.g. all edible seafood, crabs, fish, sharks, rays)...... for sequencing to determine the from one circle. water out of the punches. Remove any ...... remaining water with a pipette. identification of the shark or ray. What do you actually catch with your gillnet?...... 2 Transfer the four punches into a 1.7ml microfuge tube. One tube What do you want to catch with the longlines? (e.g. all edible seafood, fish, sharks, rays)...... is needed for each individual shark ...... or ray. What do you actually catch with your longlines?...... Do you catch sharks or rays?...... 3 Before taking the next sample from a different shark or ray, the Do you want to catch sharks or rays? Do you fish specifically for sharks or rays? If yes, what types of sharks punch needs to be cleaned to avoid do you usually catch?...... transferring any tissue to the new Do you fish for sharks at particular times of the year?...... sample. To clean the punch, take a If you catch sharks or rays, are they dead or alive?...... punch anywhere on the FTA Elute What do you with the sharks or rays you catch (e.g. release, eat, share, sell)?...... card that has had no sample on it. Fig 2: Whatman FTA Elute protocol

...... Eject the punch and then the punch ( www.gelifesciences.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/catalog/en/ tool is ready to take the next sample. GELifeSciences-au/products/AlternativeProductStructure_17096/) Do you take any measures to avoid catching sharks and rays? If yes, what do you do?......

62 63 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 2019 APPENDIX C ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

SPECIES-SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

START HERE The Rapid Assessment Toolkit Sharks and Rays represents the views of the authors on methods of collecting data. It does not necessarily reflect the views of all contributors and reviewers. Ask whether he/she The authors would like to thank Brad Moore, The Pacific Community, Peter Williams, The Pacific Community; Mike Neumann; Ask clearly "Do you see knows a fisher who at Juerg Brunnschweiler; Kathyrn Flowers, Global Finprint; and Samantha Shermann, James Cook University. Thanks also to [enter species] in your NO the present time catches Barney Jeffries for his help with production. Vanessa Jaiteh and VEMCO (hat tip Nancy Edwards) kindly allowed us to use their area at the present time?" [enter species]. Then images, as did the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Many people have contributed to the production of this finish the interview. Toolkit, and we're grateful for all their efforts. Acknowledge the information given by the The designation of geographical entities in this book, and the presentation of the material, do not imply the expression of any interviewee. opinion whatsoever on the part of WWF and James Cook University concerning the legal status of any country, territory, or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. YES The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of WWF and James Cook University. WWF and James Cook University and the other participating organizations do not take any responsibility for errors or omissions occurring in the translation into other language of this document whose original version is in English.

Ask "Do you catch Ask "Do you eat Ask for the reasons why NO NO WWF would like to thank Disney Conservation Fund and The Shark Conservation Fund for their [enter species]" [enter species]" [enter species] is not financial and other support to the development and outreach of this Toolkit. consumed. Then finish the interview. Acknowledge your interviewee´s information. YES YES

Ask: Ask "Do you catch it ● "How often do you eat [enter species]?" intentionally" ● "Who provides you with the [enter species]?" ● "Who catches [enter species]?" ● "Do many people in your village/town eat [enter species]?" ● "Which parts of [enter species] do you eat?" YES NO ● "What happens to the parts you do not eat?"

Proceed to If body parts/meat is sold, proceed to Section : Sale Proceed to targeted Oherwise finish the interview. Acknowledge your bycatch fisheries interviewee´s information

64 65 Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays Rapid Assessment Toolkit | Sharks and Rays 2019 2019 REFERENCES REFERENCES

END NOTES REFERENCES

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ABOUT WWF WWF is one of the largest and most experienced independent conservation organizations, with over 5 million supporters and a global network active in more than 100 countries. WWF´s mission is to stop the degradation of the planet´s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature, by conserving the world´s biological diversity, ensuring that the use of renewable resources is sustainable, and promoting the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption. www.panda.org

ABOUT CSTFA Research within the Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture (CSTFA) focuses not only on the aquatic and aquaculture systems that produce food, but also the industries and communities that utilise them. Multidisciplinary collaborations between our researchers provide the synergies to address substantial research problems in a way that individual research groups cannot. CSTFA provides research outputs for sustainable food production to local, state, federal and international resource managers, both in government and in the private sector. Thus, making us a key player in helping secure aquatic food production in the tropics for future generations. www.jcu.edu.au/tropical-fisheries-and-aquaculture

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