Researchers have identified a nursery of tope sharks off the coast of Borkum. This makes it clear: the largest shark species in German waters uses the Wadden Sea as a nursery. While the WWF calls for stricter protection measures, fishing associations strongly disagree.
Research project reveals migration corridor
The Thünen Institute, together with the WWF and other partners, has studied the migration movements of tope sharks. A corridor extends from Heligoland across the southern North Sea and the English Channel to the Celtic Sea. Adult animals are particularly common around Heligoland, while a nursery for juveniles has been discovered between Borkum and the West Frisian Islands.
WWF warns of bycatch
“The tope shark is an endangered species that lives on our doorstep but currently enjoys no protection,” explains Heike Zidowitz, shark expert at the WWF.
The WWF sees fishing as the greatest threat. Even though tope sharks are not targeted, they often end up as bycatch in nets, according to the WWF. The organisation is therefore calling for cross-border protection plans. The Netherlands have already proposed an action plan to protect the animals.
Fishermen reject criticism
The Weser-Ems Regional Fisheries Association strongly disputes the allegations. In the area in question, only shrimp fishing takes place, says deputy chairman Gerold Conradi. This uses selective nets that cannot catch sharks. “The WWF should really know how fishing is done here,” emphasises Conradi.
Facts about the tope shark
- Size: up to nearly 2 metres
- Weight: up to 45 kilograms
- Lifespan: presumably up to 60 years
- Offspring: 6 to 50 young per litter
- Diet: fish such as herring and sardines, as well as squid and crustaceans
Conclusion
The discovery of a tope shark nursery off Borkum shows the importance of the North Sea for this endangered species. While environmentalists call for more protection, fishermen point to the selectivity of their fishing methods. What is clear: the tope shark is at the centre of an important debate about species conservation and the sustainable use of the seas.
