CSIRO PUBLISHING Pacific Conservation Biology, 2017, 23, 324–334 Review https://doi.org/10.1071/PC17012 The sharks and rays of the Solomon Islands: a synthesis of their biological diversity, values and conservation status S. HyltonA,B,D, W. T. WhiteC and A. ChinB AMarine Science Program, School of the Earth, Ocean and Environment, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA. BCentre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld 4811, Australia. CCSIRO Australian National Fish Collection, GPO Box 1538, Hobart, Tas. 7018, Australia. DCorresponding author. Email:
[email protected] Abstract. Sharks and rays are facing increasing anthropogenic pressure globally, including in the Pacific. However, data on their status and biodiversity are lacking for many Pacific Large Ocean Island States. This study aimed to construct a species checklist for the sharks and rays occurring in the Solomon Islands, review the human interactions with these species, and present a synthesis of their conservation status. Given the paucity of available data, a wide range of data sources were used including fisheries data, citizen science, and ethnobiological studies. Results were validated through a review process involving expert informants. Fifty sharks and rays were identified from the Solomon Islands, of which 20 are assessed as Vulnerable or Endangered on the IUCN Red List, 10 in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, and 11 in the Convention for Migratory Species. The checklist also presents an eastwards range extension for the Endangered dwarf sawfish Pristis clavata. Fishing appears to be the main impact, though impacts from habitat loss and degradation are possible.