Over one hundred million sharks are killed by commercial fisheries every year through intentional harvest and bycatch however, little is known of the impact of artisanal fisheries on these species. This work investigates populations, local perceptions, fishing practices and bycatch of sharks in the Union of the Comoros. Mauritius and Madagascar.

Artisanal fishers were interviewed about the frequency of shark catches, species caught, gear used and market value.

A fuller understanding of the current state and diversity of shark populations in the Western Indian Ocean is both urgent and essential for effective regional conservation measures.