Coastal shark fisheries in the Pacific: a brief overview of current knowledge / Juncker, Matthieu

Abstract

Sharks are found throughout the world in a wide variety of habitats and developed different life histories traits. Though sharks make up only a small percentage of the world’s recorded fish landings, they are extremely versatile and are a valuable resource. They are of primary importance in some regions of the world, sustaining important fisheries in some countries. Moreover, they have been, and are, a cheap but valuable source of protein for coastal communities dependent on subsistence fisheries. Humans can utilize much of the carcass for food or other uses. Sharks are exploited for their meat, fins, skin, liver, teeth, cartilage and other internal organs.