Research Shorttail Nurse Shark

Geography

The Shorttail Nurse Shark is one of the rarest sharks in the world, found exclusively in the shallow reefs and lagoons of the western Indian Ocean. The species is listed as Critically Endangered on the Red List, with populations having declined by up to 80% over the past 30 years, leading to regional extinctions. Unlike many other shark species, the Shorttail Nurse Shark has little commercial value and has therefore often been overlooked in conservation plans.

Managed population

A small but genetically valuable population of sharks lives under expert care in several European aquariums. These animals can provide crucial information for the conservation of the species, which has disappeared from much of its original habitat. Extensive genetic analyses offer insights into health, diversity, and suitability for reintroduction into former habitats. This may form the basis for a carefully planned reintroduction effort that helps restore both the species and the ecosystems.

Finding the right home

Climate change and overfishing have drastically altered the shallow reefs and lagoons where the Shorttail Nurse Shark once thrived. Rising ocean temperatures have damaged coral reefs, while unregulated fishing has removed key species and left few hiding places for these slow-moving predators.

That is why the CoRe-Shark team is studying reef health, prey availability, and environmental stability. They are also working with local communities, fishers, and conservation organizations to build support, ensuring that reintroduction efforts are both ecologically sound and embraced by the people who share their habitat with the sharks.

Why it matters

Healthy shark populations play a vital role in regulating reef ecosystems. Restoring the Shorttail Nurse Shark could contribute to the recovery of degraded habitats. ARTIS is taking a leading role in research and conservation, working together with partners such as WUR, IUCN, WWF, regional organizations, and aquariums across Europe.