Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Sharks are a diverse group of animals that have evolved over the past 400 million years, leading to a complex set of needs. Due to overexploitation and shark finning the wild populations are threatened and the need for effective housing and conservation methods is significant. This study aims to investigate how the welfare of sharks can be ensured within animal husbandry, the Swedish animal welfare legislation, the work of aquariums as well as other conservation measures, such as the possibility of commercial breeding. The study found literature supporting that animal husbandry was globally equal, although noting some differences due to the need for individual and species adaptations. The Swedish animal welfare legislation was perceived as inadequate, even from the perspective of Swedish aquariums. Some regulations were contradictory, and words like ‘suffering’ and ‘welfare’ lacked definitions. Besides maintaining good animal husbandry, aquariums could use food- or olfactory enrichment to improve the welfare of sharks in captivity. Likewise, an interest in education and initiatives, that work to enhance the impressions of sharks and the issue with shark fishery, can improve the public’s view and knowledge, thus enhancing welfare in the long run. The study did not find any implications that commercial breeding would succeed, possibly due to the long generation times and low fertility in sharks. However, internationally regulated fishing legislation could contribute to the conservation of shark species. In contrast, jurisdictional problems are expected due to ethical dilemmas, such as the economy and welfare of small-scale fishing communities. In conclusion, good animal husbandry, improved research-based legislation, and aquariums’ commitment to educate the visitors and support initiatives can improve the welfare of sharks. By successfully keeping sharks in aquariums, visitors’ interest can increase, thus strengthening initiatives for the conservation of wild shark populations.