Fisher folk wait for fish catch caught from the trawlers. © Zoya Tyabji.

Sharks are globally threatened due to over fishing. In the Andaman archipelago, 39 species of sharks have been reported all of which are data deficient. Targeted shark fishery, incidental catch in fishing operations, along with rising sea temperatures, and natural disasters could lead to their local extirpation. In this project, I propose to systematically assess shark stocks, trace the fishing industry and its roots, and collect local knowledge regarding sharks and shark product utility. The results are targeted to inform authorities, and to encourage local communities to participate in shark conservation.