Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation Speak Up For Blue

On this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, conservation biologist Eva Myers discusses her work with the Angel Shark Conservation Project and Network. Discover how Eva built a network to study angel sharks in the Canary Islands, highlighting the communication and effort involved. Dive into the evolution of shark science from the early 1900s to the present day, exploring the growing public interest sparked by movies like Jaws. Join hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert as they delve into Eva's journey studying angel sharks and the importance of understanding these fascinating species beyond their fearsome reputation.
Website: https://angelsharknetwork.com/
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Building a successful conservation project and network requires dedication, passion, and the ability to trust and let go when necessary. Eva Myers, the conservation biologist behind the Angel Shark Conservation Project, exemplifies these qualities in her work. Eva's journey in studying angel sharks started with a chance encounter during her marine biology studies in the Galapagos Islands. Despite not initially planning to work on angel sharks, Eva's passion for marine ecology led her to pursue research on this lesser-known species.
As Eva's project grew, she faced numerous challenges, including balancing her work with consultancies, family responsibilities, and limited funding. However, Eva's dedication and passion for angel shark conservation kept her motivated to push forward. She emphasized the importance of trusting colleagues and letting go when necessary to ensure the project's success. This approach allowed the Angel Shark Conservation Project to expand globally, establishing a network of researchers, conservationists, and stakeholders working towards a common goal.
Eva's experience highlights the significance of building relationships and collaborations within the conservation community. By involving diverse stakeholders, including government representatives, researchers, and local communities, Eva was able to advocate for angel shark protection and conservation measures effectively. The project's success in getting angel sharks protected in Spain and gaining recognition at international events like the CMS COP demonstrates the impact of dedicated conservation efforts.
Overall, Eva's journey underscores the essential qualities required to build a successful conservation project and network. Dedication, passion, and the ability to trust and let go when necessary are crucial for overcoming challenges, fostering collaborations, and achieving conservation goals. Eva's story serves as an inspiration for conservationists and researchers looking to make a positive impact on endangered species and marine ecosystems.
In the podcast episode featuring Eva Myers, the importance of highlighting success stories in conservation efforts is emphasized. Eva discusses the significance of showcasing positive outcomes to inspire hope and encourage further action in the field of conservation. One key success story mentioned is the protection of angel sharks in Spain, which was achieved in 2019. This accomplishment was a result of collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders, including government representatives, researchers, and conservationists.
Eva also mentions the need to communicate these success stories effectively to the public and policymakers. She highlights the importance of showcasing the progress made in conservation initiatives, such as the establishment of marine protected areas and the development of recovery plans for endangered species like angel sharks. By sharing these success stories, Eva believes that governments and othe

In this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, special guest Alison Towner discusses her career studying great white sharks in South Africa. The conversation delves into her journey from the UK to South Africa, her research on orcas impacting great white populations, and the evolution of shark science over the years.
Tune in to learn about Alison's fascinating work and gain a deeper understanding of these incredible species.
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Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
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The presence of killer whales, specifically known as Port and Starboard, in South Africa, particularly in areas like Hans Bay, has had a profound impact on the white shark population. These killer whales, specialized in hunting elasmobranchs, have been targeting white sharks along the coastal areas, leading to a significant decline in their numbers. The killer whales have been observed hunting and preying on white sharks, resulting in eviscerated carcasses and altered behavior in the white shark population.
The continuous presence of killer whales in these areas has caused white sharks to flee from their traditional aggregation sites, such as Dire Island, leading to a shift in their distribution and abundance. The predatory pressure exerted by the killer whales has disrupted the coastal ecology, causing a ripple effect on other marine species. For example, the increased predation on white sharks has led to changes in the behavior of other mesopredators like bronze whaler sharks and an increase in competition for food resources among species like Cape fur seals and African penguins.
The impact of killer whales on the white shark population has been a cause for concern among researchers and conservationists. The rapid decline in white shark numbers in areas like Hans Bay has raised questions about the broader implications of such predator-prey dynamics on marine ecosystems. The altered coastal ecology due to the presence of killer whales highlights the interconnectedness of species and the delicate balance within marine environments.
The relocation and behavioral changes observed in white sharks, possibly in response to the predatory pressure from killer whales, suggest a complex and evolving relationship between these apex predators. The relocation of white sharks to offshore areas and unexpected fishing grounds indicate a potential shift in their foraging behavior and distribution patterns. This adaptation to avoid predation by killer whales showcases the resilience and adaptability of white sharks in response to changing environmental pressures.
The behavior of killer whales, specifically the pair known as Port and Starboard, targeting and hunting white sharks has caused significant disruptions in the marine ecosystem in South Africa. The presence of these killer whales has led to a decrease in the white shark population in areas like Hans Bay, Mossel Bay, and False Bay. This decline in white sharks has had a cascading effect on other species in the ecosystem.
One of the consequences of the decline in white sharks is the increase in Cape fur seals, as mentioned in the episode. With fewer white sharks preying on them, the Cape fur seal population has exploded, leading to potential competition for food resources with other species like African penguins. The increased predation pressure from Cape fur seals on African penguins can have detrimental effects on the penguin population, further disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.
The impact of killer whales on the marine ecosystem goes beyond just the direct predation on white sharks. The presence of these apex predators can alter the behavior and distribution of other species in the area. For example, the displacement of

Today on the Beyond Jaws podcast, Maria Cristina Oddone from Brazil shares her research on sharks and rays. Dive into the cellular level of shark science with her fascinating work. Join hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert as they explore the evolution of shark science from the early days of fear and curiosity to the diverse fields within the field today. Discover the incredible work of shark scientists like Maria Cristina Odane and expand your knowledge beyond jaws.
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Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
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Maria Cristina Oddone's Accomplishments: Maria Cristina Oddone is a highly accomplished individual with a diverse range of interests and passions. She has made significant contributions to the field of shark research, particularly focusing on skates and skate egg cases. Her work in developmental biology, embryology, reproductive biology, taxonomy, phylogeny, fisheries, and conservation of chondrichthyans has been widely recognized. Maria has published over 75 papers and book chapters, showcasing her expertise in the field.
Passion for Running: In addition to her academic achievements, Cristina is an avid runner. She started running at a young age and has continued to pursue this passion throughout her life. She competes in various distances, including 3, 5, and 10 kilometers, and is currently training for a half marathon. Running provides her with a mental escape and has even sparked creative ideas for her work while on the track.
Love for Poetry: Cristina's talents extend beyond the scientific realm. She has been writing poetry since the age of 12 and has a deep appreciation for the art form. Despite not sharing her poetry widely, she dreams of organizing her poems into a book someday. Her ability to express herself through poetry showcases her creativity and introspective nature.
Animal Rescue and Love for Cats: Cristina's compassion for animals is evident in her dedication to animal rescue. She has rescued four cats and a dog, all of whom were taken in from the streets. Her love for animals, especially cats, is a significant part of her life and reflects her caring and nurturing personality.
Balancing Multiple Passions: Maria's ability to balance her academic career, running, poetry, and animal rescue is truly remarkable. She finds time for each of her passions, demonstrating her commitment and dedication to the things she loves. Despite the challenges of juggling multiple interests, Cristina's drive and perseverance allow her to excel in various areas of her life.
Advice for Young Aspiring Scientists: Cristina's journey serves as an inspiration for young individuals aspiring to pursue a career in science. Her advice to not give up on dreams, despite obstacles or discouragement, resonates with those facing similar challenges. Maria's story highlights the importance of perseverance, passion, and support in achieving one's goals and making a meaningful impact in the world.
Maria Cristina Oddone shared a personal anecdote from her childhood where an old friend of her mother's discouraged her from pursuing biology and oceanography, stating that it was a useless career choice. Despite facing this discouragement, Cristina remained determined to follow her dreams.
She highlighted the crucial role her parents played in supporting and encouraging her aspirations, providing her with books, opportunities, and unwavering support.
Cristina's journey serves as a testament to the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being told that her chosen path was not valuable, she stayed true to her passion for biology and oceanography.
Her advice to young people is to continue pursuing

In this episode, we hear from Ava Domenicelli, an intern at Dr. Lowe's Shark Lab, who created a successful 15-minute documentary about sharks with over 6,000 views on YouTube. She shares her journey, from the inception of the documentary to the challenges and successes she encountered along the way.
Tune in to discover how she brought her story to life and the reactions from her family, friends, and viewers. The episode highlights the power of storytelling and determination in sharing a passion for sharks.
Link to the Mini-Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ztvzjhdAEQ
Connect with us:
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Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
Website: https://saveourseas.com/
Dave: 
Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

Andrew:
Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
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Ava, a journalism major with a passion for film, demonstrated her storytelling skills and commitment to raising awareness about sharks through her successful 15-minute documentary on Dr. Lowe's Shark Lab. Despite lacking a science background, Ava embraced the challenge of creating a documentary that highlighted the research conducted at the Shark Lab.
Throughout the episode, Ava's enthusiasm and storytelling passion shone through. She shared how she initially joined the Shark Lab as a public relations media intern, immersing herself in the world of shark science. Despite lacking experience in editing or documentary creation, Ava dedicated herself to producing a compelling video that captured the essence of the Shark Lab.
Ava's documentary not only showcased the scientific work at the Shark Lab but also aimed to shift public perceptions of sharks. By sharing researchers' stories and emphasizing shark conservation, Ava's documentary served as a powerful educational tool, informing viewers about the importance of these apex predators.
The success of Ava's documentary, with over 6,000 views in just a month, speaks to her storytelling skills and ability to engage audiences. Through her dedication, Ava created a piece of media that not only highlighted Shark Lab research but also inspired others to learn more about sharks and conservation efforts.
Ava's journey from a journalism major to creating a successful documentary on shark science exemplifies the impact storytelling can have in raising awareness and promoting conservation. Her passion for film and dedication to sharing important stories have significantly contributed to shark science and conservation efforts.
The episode underscored the power of digital media in reaching broad audiences and sparking interest in shark conservation through Ava's successful video. Posted on YouTube, the video garnered over 6,000 views in just a month, showcasing the influence of online platforms in spreading awareness about shark science and conservation.
Ava's documentary not only highlighted Dr. Chris Lowe's Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach but also served as an educational tool, engaging viewers in the world of shark research. The significant viewership in a short period demonstrated the reach and impact of digital media in communicating scientific information to a wide audience.
The success of the video emphasized the importance of utilizing online platforms like YouTube to share stories, raise awareness, and promote conservation efforts. By leveraging digital media, Ava captured the attention of thousands of viewers, potentially inspiring them to learn more about sharks and their conservation.
Overall, the episode highlighted how digital media, such as YouTube, can be a powerful tool in spreading knowledge, fostering interest, and driving positive change in shark conservation. Ava's video stands as a testament to the impact of online content in engaging audiences in scientific topics and conservation initiatives.
Ava's internship at the Shark Lab not o

On this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, Lauren Meyer from Flinders University discusses her research on iconic megafauna like great white sharks and cuttlefish, exploring trophic levels, food webs, and surprising diet preferences of tiger sharks. Delve into the evolution of shark science, from early perceptions to the impact of movies like Jaws, and learn about the diverse fields within shark science. Join us as we uncover the work of shark scientists from the American Elasmobranch Society, helping you expand your knowledge Beyond Jaws.
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Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
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Dave: 
Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
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Andrew:
Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
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Lauren Meyer's Research on White Sharks and Tiger Sharks Lauren Meyer's research on white sharks and tiger sharks has unveiled surprising insights about their diet and interactions with human activities. In a recent podcast episode, Lauren delves into her work on these apex predators, focusing on their feeding ecology and the impact of human activities on their diet and nutrition.
White Sharks: Lauren's study on white sharks involved examining the effects of white shark cage diving on their diet. Despite the use of southern bluefin tuna as bait during cage diving operations, the research found that white sharks still primarily feed naturally, with incidental baits having minimal impact on their diet and nutrition.
The study also highlighted that non-target species like yellowtail kingfish and silver trevally were consuming leftover baits and burley particles, shedding light on the unintended consequences of shark tourism on other marine species.
Tiger Sharks: Lauren's postdoctoral research focused on understanding the global diet of tiger sharks, known for preying on turtles and seabirds. The study aimed to explore the potential impact of plastic ingestion by tiger sharks due to their dietary habits.
An unexpected discovery during the research in Norfolk Island revealed that tiger sharks were predominantly feeding on seabirds rather than cow offal, which was initially believed to be a significant part of their diet.
Tracking tiger sharks with satellite tags unveiled their consistent migrations from Norfolk Island to New Caledonia, showcasing the extensive movements of these top predators.
Insights and Implications: Lauren's research challenges common perceptions about the diet and feeding behaviors of white sharks and tiger sharks, emphasizing the intricate interactions between these predators, their prey, and human activities such as shark tourism and waste management.
Understanding the dietary preferences and migration patterns of white sharks and tiger sharks is vital for conservation efforts and ecosystem management. By uncovering these insights, researchers like Lauren Meyer contribute valuable knowledge to the field of shark science and marine conservation.
The Global White Shark Conference organized by Flinders University surpassed expectations, drawing 170 delegates and presenting cutting-edge research and insights in the realm of shark science. Initially projected to have around 100 attendees, the conference exceeded this estimate, underscoring the significant interest and enthusiasm surrounding white shark research.
The conference was a collaborative endeavor involving key figures in the field, including Enrique Cortes, who played a crucial role in organizing and coordinating the event. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the team persevered and successfully brought together a diverse group of researchers, scientists, and enthusiasts to discuss and share their knowledge about white sharks.
The conference format departed from the traditional 15-minute presentation style, opting for a more engaging

Join us on this episode of Beyond Jaws as we chat with Enric Cortes, a retired shark scientist from NOAA Fisheries. Discover his fascinating career spanning 25 years and learn about his plans for retirement. Tune in to explore the evolution of shark science and the diverse fields within the industry.
Don't miss out on this insightful episode shedding light on these mysterious ocean creatures.
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Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
Website: https://saveourseas.com/
Dave: 
Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

Andrew:
Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
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Shark stock assessments are crucial for understanding the status of shark populations and informing management decisions. In a podcast episode featuring Enric Cortes, a retired shark scientist specializing in stock assessments at NOAA Fisheries, the importance of these assessments was emphasized.
Enric's extensive experience in conducting stock assessments for Atlantic sharks highlighted the significance of these assessments in evaluating the health and sustainability of shark populations. Stock assessments involve analyzing data on shark catches, bycatch, abundance indices, and biological information to estimate population size, growth rates, mortality rates, and reproductive parameters.
Through stock assessments, scientists like Enric can determine the abundance of shark species, assess their reproductive potential, and evaluate the impact of fishing pressure on their populations. This information is essential for fisheries management to set sustainable catch limits, implement conservation measures, and protect vulnerable shark species.
Enric's work in stock assessments not only provided valuable insights into the status of shark populations but also contributed to the development of management strategies to ensure the long-term viability of shark species. By combining data-driven analysis with ecological knowledge, stock assessments help guide policymakers, resource managers, and conservationists in making informed decisions to protect and sustainably manage shark populations.
The podcast episode underscored the critical role of stock assessments in shark science and emphasized the importance of continued research and monitoring to safeguard the future of these iconic marine species.
Importance of Data Collection and Monitoring Programs in Shark Research and Conservation In the Beyond Jaws podcast episode featuring Enric Cortes, a retired shark scientist, the conversation highlighted the critical role of data collection and monitoring programs in shark research and conservation efforts. Here's how the episode emphasized the significance of these programs:
Foundation of Research: Enric emphasized the importance of having real data as the foundation for any assessment or research in shark science. He stressed that without accurate and reliable data, the outcomes of research and conservation efforts could be compromised. Data collection forms the basis for understanding shark populations, behaviors, and ecological interactions.
Diversity in Data Sources: The episode discussed various sources of data used in shark research, including catches, bycatch information, indices of abundance, and biological data. These diverse data sources provide insights into different aspects of shark populations, such as population dynamics, reproductive patterns, and age and growth characteristics.
Challenges in Data Collection: Enric highlighted the challenges in data collection, especially in the realm of biological information for sharks. The lack of comprehensive data on aspects like age and growth, natural mortality, and reproductive parameters poses significant challenges in understanding and managing shark populations effectively.
Need for Continued Investment: The episode underscored the ongoing need