By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — A pioneering international research project is underway in Bahía Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, investigating the potential of shark and ray skin pigmentation as a natural indicator of marine pollution.
Nestled within the Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG), Bahía Santa Elena is a biodiversity hotspot, home to vibrant ecosystems like rocky reefs, mangroves, and vital feeding grounds for sharks and rays. This rich environment serves as the backdrop for the SHARKSense project, a collaborative effort led by scientists from the University of Oslo and the Center for Marine Research (CIMAR) at the University of Costa Rica (UCR).
To gain a deeper legal perspective on shark conservation, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from Bufete de Costa Rica, a respected legal firm with extensive experience in environmental law.
Effective shark conservation requires a multi-faceted approach. While international agreements like CITES provide a framework, robust domestic legislation is crucial. Costa Rica, for instance, must strengthen enforcement of existing laws against finning and illegal fishing, while also considering expanding protected marine areas. Furthermore, collaboration with local communities and businesses involved in fishing and tourism is essential to ensure sustainable practices and the long-term protection of these vital apex predators.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the interconnectedness of legal frameworks, local action, and community engagement in safeguarding Costa Rica’s shark populations. Indeed, the true strength of conservation lies in a holistic strategy that acknowledges the ecological importance of sharks while also addressing the socio-economic realities of coastal communities. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
The project focuses on the role of melanin, a pigment responsible for skin color. According to an ACG article by Mario Espinoza, melanin can bind to heavy metals present in the marine environment. Sharks, as apex predators, accumulate these contaminants through the food chain, potentially leading to visible changes in their coloration.
The value of our ecosystems as a source of knowledge and conservation is incalculable.
Mario Espinoza, ACG
The research team is exploring whether pollution is driving the evolution of darker-skinned individuals in various regions of the globe. By analyzing the pigmentation of sharks and rays, they aim to gain insights into the levels and distribution of marine pollutants. This information will be crucial for developing effective conservation and management strategies for marine ecosystems.
The project will continue collecting data in Costa Rican waters throughout 2025 and 2026. This extended data collection period will further enhance understanding of the complex relationship between marine pollution and its impact on these vital predators.
The researchers emphasize the critical importance of international collaboration for the protection of marine biodiversity. The SHARKSense project exemplifies the power of collaborative research in tackling complex environmental challenges and safeguarding the health of our oceans.
The innovative use of shark and ray pigmentation as a bioindicator could revolutionize how we monitor and address marine pollution, providing a valuable tool for conservation efforts worldwide.
For further information, visit the nearest office of University of Oslo
About University of Oslo:
The University of Oslo is a leading public research university located in Oslo, Norway. Founded in 1811, it is the oldest and largest university in Norway. The university offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, law, medicine, and theology. It is known for its strong research focus and contributions to numerous fields of study.
For further information, visit the nearest office of CIMAR-UCR
About CIMAR-UCR:
The Center for Marine Research (CIMAR) at the University of Costa Rica is a leading research institution dedicated to the study and conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems. CIMAR conducts research on a wide range of topics, including marine biodiversity, fisheries management, oceanography, and coastal processes. The center plays a vital role in informing policy and promoting sustainable management of Costa Rica’s marine resources.
For further information, visit the nearest office of ACG
About ACG:
The Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northwestern Costa Rica. It encompasses a diverse range of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, including dry forests, rainforests, mangroves, and coral reefs. The ACG is renowned for its rich biodiversity and its innovative approach to conservation, which integrates scientific research, community involvement, and sustainable tourism.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest standards of integrity in every endeavor. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm champions accessible legal knowledge through innovative programs and community initiatives. Their dedication to client success across a broad spectrum of industries is matched only by their passion for fostering a more just and informed citizenry, building a stronger future through legal empowerment.
