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National Inventory and Status of Chondrichthyes in the South Mediterranean Sea (Libyan Coast)

Sharks and Rays of Libya: Diversity, Threats, and Conservation Needs

Libya’s extensive coastline along the southern Mediterranean Sea is home to diverse marine species, including Chondrichthyans (sharks, rays, and chimaeras). These species are particularly vulnerable to overexploitation due to their slow reproduction rates and high fishing pressure.

Key findings include:

  • 59 species of elasmobranchs recorded along the Libyan coast, belonging to 24 families.
  • 8 elasmobranch species identified as bycatch in the Libyan tuna longline fishery, including Prionace glauca, Isurus oxyrinchus, and Alopias superciliosus.
  • The Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) was recently documented in Libyan waters.
  • Many species are endangered or vulnerable due to overfishing, habitat loss, and bycatch.

Key Findings :

  • High Species Diversity: Libya’s waters are home to a wide variety of sharks, skates, and rays.
  • Major Threats: Overfishing, industrial and artisanal bycatch, and environmental degradation threaten these species.
  • Urgent Conservation Need: More marine protected areas (MPAs) and stricter fishing regulations are required.

Research Type :


Marine Species Inventory  &   Conservation Assessment

Keywords :


Chondrichthyes, Elasmobranchs, Sharks, Rays, Bycatch, Conservation, Libya
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Publication Details

Authors

  • Esmail Shakman
    (University of Tripoli)
  • Aisha Siafenasar
    (University of Tripoli)
  • Khaled Etayeb
    (University of Tripoli)
  • Ali Shefern
    (Marine Biology Research Centre, Tajoura)
  • Abdalaha Elmgwashi
    (Marine Biology Research Centre, Tajoura)
  • Mohamed Al Hajaji
    (Marine Biology Research Centre, Tajoura)
  • Nauroz Bek Benghazi
    (University of Tripoli)
  • Abdalha ben Abdalha
    (University of Tripoli)
  • Mehdi Aissi
    (WWF North Africa)
  • Fabrizio Serena
    (IRBIM-CNR, Italy)