AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty

 

The AWARE Shark Specialty Course is offered FREE with the Eco-Divemaster Internship.

 

Sharks are in trouble and need our help - will you help our friends the sharks?

 

Sharks are crucial to marine ecosystems. They maintain a balance in populations of prey species and keep the ocean healthy by removing ill or diseased animals. They are an important resource supporting local economies through fishing and as an attraction to dive tourists.

But sharks are in a global decline. Overfishing has reduced many shark populations around the world to levels that threaten their continued existence. Shark numbers have fallen by more than 80% in many cases, and the continued existence of some species is at immediate risk in some regions.

 

The Course set out the Importance of understanding that Shark populations are rapidly declining, mainly due to overfishing. Many actions are required to protect sharks including improved fisheries management and trade regulation. An important step towards gaining improved protection for sharks is to raise the public’s awareness of the issues and engage them in shark conservation activities. 

 

The Course Curriculum includes : 

 

Introduction Let’s help our friends the sharks!

Sharks in peril and why we should care

Unique physical attributes of sharks

Conservation status of sharks

Life-history traits that make sharks vulnerable

Importance of sharks to marine ecosystems

Managing threats and recognizing values

Major threats contributing to declines in shark populations

Key management strategies that can protect sharks

Value of sharks to local economies

Removing common misperceptions of sharks that are a barrier to conservation

Personal actions you can take to protect sharks

Find the conservation status of your local sharks

Discover the sharks in your region

 

Included are :

 

2 Required Course Dives

AWARE Student Study Materials

PADI Course Certification