In brief
Researchers have revealed that great white sharks in the Mediterranean are facing severe threats from illegal fishing. Despite being a protected species, they are being sold in North African markets. The decline of their population raises concerns about the future of these majestic predators in the region.
Great white sharks in the Mediterranean Sea are in danger of disappearing, with illegal fishing contributing to their decline.
This is according to research by US scientists, working in partnership with UK charity Blue Marine Foundation. They say some of the most threatened species - including great white sharks - are being sold in North African fish markets.
Great whites are one of over 20 Mediterranean shark species protected under international law, making it illegal to fish for them or to sell them.
However, researchers monitoring fishing ports on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa discovered that at least 40 great white sharks have been killed there in 2025 alone.
Independent investigations have found footage of protected sharks brought dead into North African ports, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Lead researcher, Dr. Francesco Ferretti from Virginia Tech, discussed the significant decline of shark populations in the Mediterranean. He noted that the region's fishing practices are particularly brutal, adding, it's plausible that they will go extinct in the near future.
Conservationists, including James Glancy from Blue Marine, emphasize the need for collaborative efforts among Mediterranean nations to ensure the survival of these species, proposing sustainable fishing practices as a viable solution.
