As World Shark Day approaches on 14 July, a major marine research initiative has been launched in False Bay aimed at protecting and better understanding the lives of sharks, rays, and skates – collectively known as elasmobranchs.
The project is spearheaded by the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, in partnership with Shark Spotters, the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), and SANParks.
The partnership seeks to address critical knowledge gaps about these species by tracking their movements within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) using cutting-edge acoustic telemetry technology.
Research advancement
“This collaboration is not only a significant research advancement but also a platform for developing the next generation of marine scientists,” said Dr Nathalie Viljoen, Head of Research at the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation.
Using SAIAB’s Acoustic Tracking Array Platform (ATAP), which stretches from St Helena Bay to southern Mozambique, the team has already tagged 29 animals, including lesser guitarfish, spotted gully sharks, and common eagle rays.
Each animal is fitted with a transmitter that emits a unique signal, enabling researchers to monitor their location and behaviour over time.
Successful tracking
The tagging is carried out by a team led by Dr Ilse Jenkinson, a veterinarian at the aquarium, ensuring ethical and professional handling of the animals.
Dr Toby Rogers, Research Manager at Shark Spotters, said the project builds on years of successful tracking of species like white sharks and bronze whalers.
“We’re excited to expand our understanding of species that have been relatively overlooked. The more we learn, the better we can protect them.”
The collaboration also supports student training and academic research, with ties to UCT, UWC, and CPUT.
Insights gathered from the study will feed into both conservation strategies and public education, helping raise awareness of the importance of elasmobranchs in marine ecosystems.
With World Shark Day shining a global spotlight on marine predators, this project marks a timely and hopeful step towards safeguarding South Africa’s rich underwater heritage.
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