According to journal nature, the shark population worldwide is dwindling, with 16 of 31 shark species no endangered or critically endangered. Researchers indicate the number of oceanic sharks and rays in the world declined by 71% from 1970 to 2018.
Scientists are looking to tackle this statistic through artificial insemination to bring 97 baby whitespotted bamboo sharks to life as the “largest-ever effort to artificially inseminate sharks.” This scientific process of boosting the shark population will help future generations of the species while encouraging healthier populations in aquariums.
This project encourages genetic diversity while removing the need for transporting sharks in between institutions for mating purposes. Moving sharks between institutions is a costly process that is commonly stressful for the animals.
The whitespotted bamboo shark originates from the Indo-Pacific Ocean can reach a maximum length of approximately 3 feet (1 meter), and are easier to handle for reproductive procedures. The project tested whitespotted bamboo sharks as the species is considered “near threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, making the species an ideal candidate.
This scientific breakthrough can help scientists worldwide contribute to the conservation efforts of protected or endangered species. The research source for this article is based from a CNN report.