The Loss of a flatshark - Lost Sharks: species gone due to fishing pressures

Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert discuss the extinction of the Java Stingray and its implications for other flat shark species. They delve into the history of shark science, from the public's initial fear and curiosity to the growth of the field and the diverse areas of research within it. With guest Julia, they explore the importance of understanding and conserving lesser-known shark species for the health of our ecosystems.

While the topic may be sad, the episode offers a positive outlook on the future of shark conservation.

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The podcast episode features an interview with Julia Constance, a PhD candidate at Charles Darwin University in Australia. Julia's research focuses on little-known species of sharks and stingrays, and she has been making significant contributions to the field. Prior to her research at Charles Darwin University, Julia completed a double degree in science, conservation biology, arts, photography, and indigenous studies at the University of Wollongong.

During her honors study, Julia delved into the historical ecology and probability of extinction of three rare sharks and rays. In fact, she even made the groundbreaking discovery of the first extinct marine fish. Currently in her second year of her PhD study, Julia is investigating the natural mortality, movement ecology, and habitat use of river sharks of the genus Glyphos. The insights she gathers from this study will play a crucial role in developing effective conservation strategies for these unique and fascinating species.

The hosts of the podcast express their enthusiasm about having Julia on the show and emphasize the importance of her research. They discuss how studying little-known species can significantly contribute to our overall understanding and conservation efforts for these animals. The hosts also highlight the potential for discovering and protecting these lost species, underscoring the need for more studies like Julia's.

The episode also delves into the historical context of Julia's research. The hosts mention that the species she is studying hasn't been sighted in 160 years and may have vanished long ago without anyone realizing it. They stress the importance of raising awareness about these species and the necessity of continued research in this field.

Overall, the episode centers around Julia Constance's research on little-known species of sharks and stingrays, shedding light on the significance of her work in understanding and conserving these animals.

The host encourages listeners to share the podcast with anyone who has an interest in sharks and stingrays. In the transcript, at the end of the episode, the host expresses gratitude to the audience for their listenership and conveys their affection for all the listeners. They urge the audience to share the podcast by copying the podcast link on their favorite podcast app and sending it to others who may also enjoy and learn from it. This demonstrates the host's appreciation for audience engagement and their desire to reach more individuals who share a passion for sharks and stingrays.

Throughout the podcast episode, the host and guest emphasize the significance of studying lesser-known species and the need for more young scientists to pursue careers in this field. They highlight the fact that while many people are drawn to studying charismatic species like white sharks, tiger sharks, manta rays, and whale sharks, there is a lack of data and knowledge about a wide range of other species, particularly rays. The guest points out that rays are more threatened and exploited than these charismatic species, and there is a significant dearth of information about them.

The guest also emphasizes that young, early-career scientists have a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact in this field by focusing on lesser-known species. They discuss the vast potential for research and discovery in this area, as many species of rays remain virtually unknown, and there is a critical need for basic information about them. The host adds that another scientist they recently had on the podcast, Jalen Myers, shares the same concern and is studying flat shark species.

The host expresses their excitement and satisfaction in being involved with the specific study discussed in the episode, as it aligns with their efforts to raise awareness about lesser-known species. They hope that listeners will pay close attention to what the guest has to say and recognize the importance of studying these lesser-known species. The episode concludes with an interview with the guest, Julia Constance, who will provide further insights into her research on lesser-known species.