Munster Technological University (MTU) in collaboration with the Irish Elasmobranch Group (IEG),Project SIARC (Sharks Inspiring Action and Research in Communities), and the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) today performed a rare dissection on an endangered species of shark known as the “Angel Shark” (Squatina squatina) in MTU Kerry’s South Campus.
The dissection was conducted to further understand the specie as well as support
conservation efforts both nationally and internationally. Angel Sharks are listed as critically
endangered on the IUCN Red List, facing significant threats from habitat loss, fishing
bycatch, and other environmental pressures. In Ireland, their population has dwindled to a
few isolated locations, such as Tralee and Galway Bay.
The discovery of the Angel Shark specimen on a beach in Clare is attributed to a former
student of MTU’s Wildlife Biology program, who quickly recognized the importance of the
find and raised it with the university. Following strict legal protocols, a dispensation from the
Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) was obtained to collect the specimen for scientific
research.
This dissection will add to existing research using a scientific protocol which includes taking
a range of body measurements, stomach contents, and various tissue samples. These will
be sent for contaminant, stable isotope, and genetic analysis, to shed light on the
Angel Sharks biology and ecology.
Commenting on the event, lead researcher and lecturer of MTU’s Wildlife Biology course,
Louise Overy said: “Today’s dissection, while bittersweet in its circumstances, offers
researchers a unique opportunity to understand and protect a critically endangered species
of marine wildlife that we otherwise would not have had. The examination is crucial to allow
all sectors to come together to identify the next steps for marine wildlife conservation in
Ireland. It’s an honour to lead a project that is working to secure a future for an endangered
species of wildlife.”
The Angel Shark project: Ireland, led by Louise Overy of the Wildlife Biology course
in MTU Kerry campus is part of an international effort towards measures to help support the
species across its range with project partners in Wales, Corsica, Greece, Libya, Croatia and
the Canary islands. Learn more here.