A rare angel shark has recently been captured on underwater cameras in Cardigan Bay, marking an important moment for marine conservation. The footage was recorded by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales (WTSWW) as part of their ongoing research into marine biodiversity.

This discovery was made during National Marine Week, which runs from July 26 to August 10, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the diverse marine life in the region. According to a report from South Wales Argus Mail, sightings of this critically endangered species are rare, highlighting the significance of the recent encounter for environmental protection.

Angel Sharks: An Endangered Species

Angel sharks are one of the world’s rarest shark species, critically endangered due to the decline of their populations caused by fishing practices and habitat destruction. These sharks, which can grow up to 2.4 meters in length, are well-camouflaged on the seabed, where they ambush their prey, primarily flatfishes, crustaceans, and mollusks. Their seabed lifestyle makes them highly vulnerable to trawl nets, further exacerbating their risk of extinction.

The Sighting: A Rare Occurrence in Cardigan Bay

The recent footage of the angel shark marks a rare event, as it is the first recorded sighting in Cardigan Bay since 2021. The footage was captured as part of the Dolphin Diet Detectives project, which uses Baited Underwater Remote Video Systems (BRUVS) to study the diets of dolphins and the wider marine ecosystem in the region.

This project, funded by the Welsh Government through the Nature Networks Fund, has deployed underwater cameras to reveal the incredible diversity of life on the seabed. The cameras were deployed at various locations to observe marine life and have documented a range of species, with the angel shark being one of the most significant discoveries.

Dr. Sarah Perry, marine conservation and research manager at WTSWW, commented on the sighting:

We were thrilled to record an angel shark in Cardigan Bay, a rare and exciting encounter. Before this project started, angel sharks hadn’t been captured on film in Cardigan Bay since 2021.

The Need for Better Marine Protection

This sighting comes at a crucial time, as discussions are underway about banning bottom trawling in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Wales. Despite the presence of 139 MPAs in the country, these areas are not fully protected from harmful fishing activities. The WTSWW’s findings underscore the urgent need for stronger conservation measures to protect fragile marine habitats from the destructive effects of bottom trawling. Dr. Perry added:

These findings highlight the urgent need to protect these fragile habitats from damaging activities like bottom trawling.

Public Reaction and Continued Conservation Efforts

The public response to the footage has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their excitement over seeing such a rare species in Cardigan Bay. Social media users have praised the footage, with one user commenting:

So wonderful to see.

Another said:

What awesome footage!

A third commented:

A dream sighting!!!!!

This widespread enthusiasm highlights the growing interest in marine conservation and the importance of preserving endangered species like the angel shark.