Cyprus has been declared a dangerous area for angel sharks

Cyprus has been recognized as a dangerous region for angel sharks. Three Mediterranean species are at serious risk, according to the Enalia Physis Center for Environmental Research.

The research center collaborates with the Turtle Protection Society (Spot) and the organization iSea to register angel sharks accidentally caught during fishing activities. They collect information on the biology, distribution, and mortality of sharks, as well as the locations of their bycatch in Cyprus, and urge people to share any observations or accidentally caught angel sharks with them.

Angel sharks are a group of sharks of the genus Squatina, and although they were once widespread in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Black Seas, many species are now classified as endangered.

This is due to a number of factors, including a lack of knowledge about their biology and habitat preferences, low genetic diversity, their capture as bycatch during fishing activities, poaching, and non-compliance with existing legislation.

Sharks of this family have a flattened body and wide fins, giving them a strong resemblance to rays. They are considered small sharks, growing only up to two meters, weighing about 35 kg, and typically pose no danger to humans.