Strengthening Angel Shark Conservation in the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea

Angel sharks are among the most threatened species of globally. Twenty-two have been identified globally so far, with three being present in Mediterranean Sea: Squatina aculeata, oculata, and squatina. The populations all assessed as Critically Endangered by IUCN Red List Threatened Species due to steep decline their a result historical current overexploitation demersal fisheries. Therefore, currently there is an ongoing increasing effort for advancing conservation basin. Recently, context Regional Action Plan Sharks, Aegean Sea Crete critical areas species. This study provides first predictive distribution map angel shark basin, while were through systematic spatial planning analysis. Our analysis revealed low overlapping between existing MPA network primarily Greece then Turkey, 20% overlaps Fisheries Restricted Areas region. highlights need creating MPAs focusing on within that completely absent. In addition, we provide policy recommendations can secure better protection enforcement legislations engagement relevant stakeholders.