Using Local Ecological Knowledge of Fishers to Identify the Presence and Habitats of Angelsharks in Albanian Waters

Abstract The Mediterranean Sea is a hotspot for shark and ray extinctions home to the following three angelshark species: sawback Squatina aculeata , smoothback oculata common squatina . We conducted questionnaire-based survey in four coastal regions of Albania, Shëngjin (Lezhë), Vlorë, Himarë (Sarandë) Durrës, with aim collecting historical current data on catches Albanian seas (Adriatic Ionian Seas). Although occurrence was reported by Croatian fishermen Adriatic Sea, we included other two species our study. number observations minimal, although this first study sightings Albania. It will establish baseline that allow further work conservation these regionally extinct highly endangered species.