Stop shark finning

by Michaella, August 6, 2009 at 3:14pm

According to an article from Grist, "Every year up to 73 million sharks are caught, stripped of their fins, and left for dead in the ocean." Discovery Channel's Shark Week is meant to halt "finning" practices.

Sharks play a critical role in the ocean ecosystem. As a top predator, sharks create balance in the ocean ecosystem. However, many Asian countries cut off shark fins and leave the shark to die in the ocean to create an Asian delicacy, Shark fin soup. Ancient creatures, living since the prehistoric era, scientist fear that many sharks may face extinction due to finning.

"Sharks are often large, slow-growing, and slow to reproduce. They just can’t be slaughtered in large numbers and still survive as species. Already some scientists believe that there are species that are “functionally extinct,” unable to perform their role as top predator."

Celebrities such as basketball player Yao Ming and former presidential candidate John Kerry support the movement to ban shark finning.

The shark's current situation can be compared alongside another top predator, wolves. There have been positive signs that wolves are gradually returning to Yellowstone Park.  Hopefully the same can be done for the sharks.  However, before accusing fishermen, we must do what we can to reduce the demand for shark fin soup.  After all, everyone needs to make a living.  Shark fin soups account a hefty profit for many sailors, especially those living in developing countries.

The Shark Conservation Act of 2009, introduced by John Kerry and John Ford from the Discovery channel is currently pending in Congress.  So far the bill has 10 co-sponsors in the Senate with additional support from the Pew Environment Group.  If enforced, US will be allowed to ban any sailors caught "finning".

If you want to save these majestic creatures and put an end to shark fin soup, sign the petition, hosted by the Ocean Conservancy.