Fisheries bycatch and conservation priorities of young sharks (Chondrichthyes: Elasmobranchii) in the Eastern Mediterranean

Sharks are one of the most threatened groups marine animals because high exploitation rates coupled with low resilience to fishing pressure. We provide information on current status young sharks caught in nets Iskenderun and Mersin Bays eastern Mediterranean, based fishery-dependent surveys conducted between 2010 2021. were found bycatches trawling nets, trammel bottom longlines lines. Incidental captures young-of-the-year or juvenile specimens (n=269) included 15 species data indicate that İskenderun may serve as a nursery ground for new-born individuals especially Blackmouth Catshark (Galeus melastomus), Lesser Spotted Dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula), Velvet Belly (Etmopterus spinax). If necessary measures taken, bycatch can be reduced certain limit, even eliminated shark Mediterranean Sea.