University of Exeter scientists have been awarded £939,434 to lead a three-year project dedicated to the conservation of three of England’s most vulnerable shark species. The project, which runs from July 2026 to March 2029, aims to address significant knowledge gaps regarding the distribution, abundance, and migration patterns of blue shark, porbeagle, and tope.
The funding was provided by Natural England’s Species Recovery Programme, which is part of the government’s Wild Again: Restoring England's Wildlife
initiative. This broader government effort is designed to support targeted conservation actions for more than 350 threatened species across the country.
Project Scope and Methodology
The research team, led by Dr. Matthew Witt and Dr. Lucy Hawkes of the University of Exeter, will employ a combination of modern tracking technology and historical ecological data. A primary component of the project involves the deployment of 75 electronic tags, including long-term satellite tags capable of tracking shark movements for up to two years. These tags will provide data on migration routes, residency areas, and how the sharks respond to being caught and released by anglers. To further study the species without causing harm, researchers will utilize non-invasive ultrasound scanning. This method is intended to identify pregnant sharks and locate potential pupping and nursery grounds, avoiding the need for invasive blood sampling.
Collaboration with Angling Communities
A key aspect of the study is the partnership with the Angling Trust, the Marine Biological Association (MBA), and the Pat Smith Database. Researchers plan to conduct workshops and structured interviews with at least 45 anglers in major hubs, including Looe, Falmouth, and Brightlingsea. By gathering historical catch records and local ecological knowledge, the team aims to build a comprehensive picture of shark distribution. Dr. Witt stated that by combining generations of angler knowledge with state-of-the-art tracking technology, the project is building the evidence needed to secure a future for these species. The findings gathered during the study are expected to inform updated England Red List assessments and provide best-practice guidance for anglers to improve survival rates after release.
Conservation Status and Scientific Context
The sharks selected for this study are currently poorly understood despite significant conservation concern. Within Europe, porbeagle sharks are classified as Critically Endangered, while tope are classified as Vulnerable. Dr. Bryce Stewart, a senior research fellow at the Marine Biological Association, noted that while important and vulnerable shark species reside in English waters, there remain significant knowledge gaps regarding their population status. According to Dr. Stewart, the comprehensive data collected through this partnership will be instrumental in identifying the necessary actions to secure the future of these sharks. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds described the funding as part of the largest-ever investment in species recovery, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting threatened wildlife and restoring habitats.
Project Overview Summary
| Focus Species | Blue shark, porbeagle, tope |
|---|---|
| Project Duration | July 2026 – March 2029 |
| Key Technology | Satellite electronic tags; non-invasive ultrasound |
| Primary Partners | University of Exeter, Angling Trust, Marine Biological Association, Pat Smith Database |
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