For most, being able to count one shark we see in the ocean–in person–is already too many. Although the average person would much prefer not to come across any sharks in the ocean, Finprint researchers are hoping to do exactly the opposite.
Using the observation and research network known as FinPrint, scientists are going to establish baiting stations with cameras at the world’s major coral reefs in an attempt to approximate the world’s shark and ray population.
FinPrint’s efforts to preserve the world’s shark populations
The oceans sharks and rays are some of the most important species on the planet, and play a key role in the survival of the world’s ocean ecosystems, but this is often overlooked.
Sharks are some of the most deeply misunderstood creatures on the planet, due in part to their terrifying appearance, as well as the way the media has portrayed them through the years. However, sharks kill only around ten people each year, whereas mosquitos kill around 750,000 and humans kill roughly 475,000 people each year.
An alarming number of species of sharks and rays are currently threatened with extinction. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, about one quarter of all shark and ray species will face extinction if preventative measures are not taken.
FinPrint’s goal is to use the information it collects using over 400 cameras during its three year mission, to quantify shark and ray population statistics, as well as areas of concern due to unsafe conditions for the purpose of sustaining shark and ray habitats.
The support behind FinPrint’s massive data gathering agenda
FinPrint shark conservation has garnered the attention and support of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, as well as scientists around the world. These scientists will be able to communicate about information they’ve gathered through Paul Allen’s open access database created by his company Vulcan Inc. This ease of access to information will allow experts across the globe to quickly retrieve data from any site in the world instantaneously. All of the world’s top marine biologists and researchers have the opportunity to join the FinPrint mission, and collaborate in analyzing the incredible amount of data that will be received. Hopefully with a combined effort of eager participants all over the world, we can put a stop to shark extinction.
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