The Balearic Islands present a pioneering Action Plan for the protection of sharks and rays

The proposal, aimed at protecting and restoring populations of these fish in the archipelago, was presented during the second meeting of the Expert Group on Elasmobranchs.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Natural Environment held the second meeting of the Expert Group on Elasmobranchs as part of the Balearic Strategy for Sharks and Rays. The event, chaired by Anna Torres, Director General of Natural Environment and Forest Management, and Antoni M. Grau, Director General of Fisheries, featured the presentation of the proposed Action Plan for the Conservation of Elasmobranchs in the Balearic Islands. This Plan, developed by the Ministry, explores a wide range of possible measures to improve the conservation status of chondrichthyan fishes in the archipelago’s waters, aiming to manage fisheries from an ecosystem-based approach. The proposal, a pioneering initiative in marine conservation at both national and Mediterranean levels, is yet another example of the regional government’s commitment to environmental protection and preservation.

The Action Plan is based on proposals from the first Expert Group meeting in September 2024, as well as conclusions from the Marine Biodiversity Conference hosted by Marilles on November 14th, 2024. It is structured around six main areas of action, divided into 17 specific activities to be carried out in the short, medium, and long term.

The proposed actions are diverse and include awareness campaigns, training for fishermen, studies on the biology and catches of chondrichthyans, support for fishing sector initiatives, and more. A key measure is the formalization of the Action Plan through a ministerial order issued by the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Natural Environment. This is not the first initiative the Balearic Government has taken in support of chondrichthyans—recent efforts include the establishment of a minimum catch size for smooth-hound sharks and a breeding and release project for nursehounds (Scyliorhinus stellaris). Notably, the Action Plan is designed to allow for voluntary public involvement in its implementation.

A major focus of the Plan is improving the knowledge and species identification skills of both professional and recreational fishers. “It is necessary to strengthen and unify current monitoring and data collection efforts. The Plan aims to integrate existing tools—such as observers, mobile apps, and scattered data platforms—to ensure centralized, systematic, and effective monitoring,” explained Director General Anna Torres.

Another key area, according to Antoni M. Grau, is the reduction of accidental catches of vulnerable species through active collaboration with the fishing sector, as well as promoting proper handling and release of captured specimens. “One of our goals is to provide both professional and recreational fishers with clear, practical training and protocols,” stated the Director General of Fisheries.

Grau also emphasized that to ensure the effectiveness of the Plan’s measures, “it is essential to strengthen surveillance and control efforts, both in internal and external waters.” This includes training patrol personnel in the identification of protected species, developing response protocols for violations, and improving coordination among various authorities, including the Directorate General of Fisheries, the Fishing Surveillance Corps, and the Civil Guard.

All members of the Expert Group participate in a personal capacity, but the meeting included technical staff from the regional government, the Island Council of Ibiza, the Consortium for the Recovery of Wildlife of the Balearic Islands (COFIB), scientists from the Spanish Institute of Oceanography, and individuals linked to conservation organizations such as Save the Med, SharkMed, and Marilles, as well as representatives from the fishing community. The involvement of the Balearic Federation of Fishermen's Guilds and the Mallorcan Association for Responsible Recreational Fishing is crucial to ensure realistic, applicable measures and active sector participation in the decision-making process.

During the meeting, participants exchanged opinions, questions, and proposals on various aspects of the Plan, highlighting the wisdom and necessity of convening the group. The Ministry will now analyze the conclusions and begin, as soon as possible, implementing the measures set out in the Action Plan.

Sharks and rays sit at the top of marine food chains and play a crucial role in the structure and functioning of marine ecosystems. Their decline can lead to serious ecological consequences, including cascading effects. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Natural Environment emphasizes the need to implement measures that support elasmobranchs and, in turn, enhance the structure and functioning of coastal ecosystems and fisheries. However, without the active collaboration and involvement of key stakeholders—professional and recreational fishers, boating communities, and conservation groups—such a large-scale project would not be possible.