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Comparative Analysis of Shark Capture Data: Species Composition, Diversity, and Abundance Along the Northeast Coast of Trinidad
Imran Khan, Vivan Alexander, and Dennis Sammy
Future Fishers, Sangre Grande, Trinidad and Tobago
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ABSTRACT
Sharks play a crucial role in balancing marine ecosystems. They occupy a wide range of habitats and play a significant role in maintaining biodiversity. Some shark species, such as reef sharks, help maintain the health of coral reef ecosystems. However, over one-third of shark species globally are threatened with extinction. In the Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC) waters, which account for 14% of global shark species, many species face significant risks. Future Fishers (FF) 2022 baseline data collected across the seven landing sites shows that over 60% of shark species caught are vulnerable, and over 29% critically endangered. The continued harvesting of these vulnerable species poses a significant threat to ecosystem health, diversity and fisherfolk livelihoods. Accordingly, the purpose of this observational study is to examine the relation between shark species, fishing methods, and landing sites and quantity and price of sharks landed within Northeastern Trinidad and Tobago. Data was collected from extensive fieldwork resulting from 1288 unique observations from 62 fishers ranging from January 2022 to Dec 2022. Data collectors were employed and trained to collect catch records that were then entered into the FF database called “FISHNET”. The data analysis will involve a comparative evaluation of records across landing sites as well as over the 12-month period. The result of these analyses will provide a greater understanding of the local context that may impact livelihood and future shark harvest. This information can aid in the development of targeted conservation strategies and measures that can be applied locally and regionally.
HOW TO CITE: Khan, I., V. Alexander, and D. Sammy, 2026. Comparative Analysis of Shark Capture Data: Species Composition, Diversity, and Abundance Along the Northeast Coast of Trinidad. Contribution 3.11, p211-224 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=916
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