Galapagos: a site with hammerhead sharks discovered
Galapagos: a site with hammerhead sharks discovered
Researchers have discovered a site with some hammerhead sharks in the Galapagos volcanic archipelago. These animals are particularly threatened.
Scientists have discovered a Galapagos site as a refuge for hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna lewini), an endangered species according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the Ecuadorian government said.
This natural refuge located near Santa Cruz Island is home to about 20 sharks, according to the Ministry of the Environment. This is the second site of this type detected in the archipelago. The first, discovered in 2017, is home to thirty specimens. Scientists have attached a tracking device to five of the sharks to monitor and protect the ecosystem in which they live, said Eduardo Espinoza, who led the expedition that led to the discovery.
Hammerheads grow slowly and are poor breeders. In addition, they are victims of fishing especially because their fins are very popular in Asia. For example, in August 2017, a Chinese-flagged vessel was boarded in the Galapagos Marine Reserve - put in place by the government to preserve them - with some 300 tons of fishing,
