800 Scientists Unite in Sri Lanka to Save Sharks and Rays

The world's largest gathering of shark and ray experts just delivered a message of hope backed by science and global cooperation.

More than 800 marine scientists from over 80 countries met in Colombo, Sri Lanka this May for Shark International 2026. The historic conference marked the first time this crucial event has been hosted in Asia, bringing together researchers who presented over 600 scientific papers on protecting these threatened ocean animals.

The news is serious but the momentum is real. Scientists confirmed that many shark and ray populations face steep declines from overfishing, habitat loss, climate change, and wildlife trade. But they also presented clear, actionable solutions that governments can implement right now.

Daniel Fernando, Co-Founder of Blue Resources Trust which hosted the event, pointed to past conservation wins as proof that rapid change is possible. "Looking back 40 to 50 years, we made drastic changes for species like turtles and cetaceans that used to be commonly fished," Fernando said. "We know enough to take action."

The conference revealed a crucial insight that could change everything. Despite sharing traits with long-lived land animals like slow growth and low reproduction rates, sharks and rays are still managed as regular fish that can be harvested freely. Treating them more like endangered elephants or whales instead of salmon could reverse their decline.

Scientists emphasized that waiting for perfect data is no longer an option when proven conservation methods already exist. The turtle and whale protections implemented decades ago worked, and similar approaches can save sharks and rays before populations crash beyond recovery.

The Ripple Effect

This gathering represents something bigger than one conference. When 80 countries send their top marine scientists to collaborate on solutions, it signals that global political will is building. The research presented gives governments the evidence base they need to act decisively.

Protecting sharks and rays preserves ocean ecosystems that billions of people depend on for food and livelihoods. These animals have survived for 400 million years, but the next few decades will determine whether they make it through the next century.

The path forward is clear, and the world's experts are united behind it.