The Biology and Conservation of Elasmobranchs and Chimaeras

As aquatic predators since the Cretaceous period, Elasmobranchs (sharks, skates, rays) and chimaeras, represent one of the oldest vertebrate groups, with very little morphological or physiological adaptations. Though they are remarkably ancient and praised as God-like creatures in some parts of the world, they are among the most feared in the public eye as a consequence of their negative portrayal throughout history. Unfortunately, as it is the case with many aquatic species, in recent years climate change and anthropogenic pressures such as food competition, pollution, and habitat degradation have significantly threatened their populations. On top of this, having low fecundity, late sexual maturation and slow growth rates as well as their opportunistic feeding behavior make them vulnerable to commercial fisheries even though, in most cases, they are not the target species. As a result, nowadays many species are endangered, some data-deficient or nearly extinct with the need for urgent knowledge for conservation actions.

Producing science-based information on elasmobranchs and chimaeras is crucial for population sustainability, conservation and management actions. In this Research Topic, we invite author contributions on elasmobranchs and chimaeras biology and ecology (e.g., reproduction biology, feeding ecology, age and growth), distribution, migration and many other aspects to bring together this imperative knowledge to provide a base for conservation and management actions, locally or regionally.

In this Research Topic, we invite any type of original author contributions on elasmobranchs and chimaeras biology, ecology, distribution, migration and many other aspects that serve an important role to provide a base for conservation and management actions, locally or regionally.