The shark's bar-code

Elasmobranchs, a group of cartilaginous fishes including sharks, rays and chimaera, are critical to marine ecosystems, but face increasing threats from overfishing and habitat degradation. Sustainable management of these species relies on accurate data about their life histories, particularly age and growth patterns and habitat use. However, many knowledge gaps remain especially for species with complex or cryptic life histories, and those inhabiting understudied regions.

This project focuses on advancing the science of elasmobranch sclerochronology, a technique using geochemical applications on chronological calcified structures, such as vertebrae, to estimate the age and life history of an individual. Advanced geochemical instrumentation, including laser ablation multi collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry can be used to quantify the life patterns of an individual on an isotopic scale (20μm). Through analysing these structures, inferences about the individuals habitat use, diet, or trophic level can be determined.

The aims of this project include a clearer understanding of the life histories of vulnerable elasmobranch species. This knowledge can directly inform management, fisheries and policy, to ensure these critical species are protected. Through communicating our findings through accessible channels, we aim to raise awareness of the importance of informed elasmobranch age, growth, and habitat use, for local efforts in conservation of these iconic species.

This project also seeks to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, by integrating expertise from marine ecology, geochemistry and computational science, we hope to push the boundaries of what is possible for elasmobranch life history studies. In the long term, we envision this work contributing to the global framework of elasmobranch age and growth, promoting data sharing, collaboration and knowledge across scientific, conservation, and local communities. Ultimately, this will support efforts to ensure the sustainability of these vital yet vulnerable marine organisms.

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