Exploring the Intersection of Indigenous Knowledge and Shark Science

AKA my whole PhD.

Called me biased since they've been my study animal since I was 17, but I believe the plight of sharks stands as a poignant testament to the delicate balance of our oceans' ecosystems.

As apex predators, sharks play an indispensable role in regulating marine populations, maintaining biodiversity, and preserving the health of our oceans (amongst many other parts they play in the tapestry of life that is below the waves). However, despite having roamed our oceans for millions of years, they currently face a myriad threats that of our own doing, including overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

There's no single solution to protect these populations worldwide. Heck, in my opinion, there isn't even a broad brushstroke solution a whole country or state can apply; in order for management to be effective, it needs to be tailored to the region you're trying to manage. Thus, it makes conserving these animals a bit complex. Still, it's imperative that we acknowledge and harness the invaluable resource of Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK). LEK, rooted in the wisdom and experiences of local communities, offers invaluable insights into shark behaviour, distribution patterns, and ecological dynamics that Euro-centric scientific methodologies often overlook. Unlike scientific data alone, LEK integrates practical observations, cultural perspectives, and time-tested strategies for coexisting with marine ecosystems. In the context of shark conservation, LEK provides a unique lens through which we can comprehend the nuanced relationships between sharks and their habitats.

In many coastal communities worldwide, sharks have long been an integral part of cultural heritage and livelihoods. Fishermen, divers, and Indigenous communities possess a wealth of knowledge about sharks amassed over generations of coexistence. Their observations, passed down through oral traditions, provide nuanced understandings of shark behaviour, migration routes, and ecological niches. By collaborating with these groups, we can tap into a vast reservoir of LEK (as well as delve deeper into the socio-cultural significance of sharks within their communities). Empowering local stakeholders as stewards of shark conservation initiatives not only enhances the effectiveness of conservation efforts but also promotes socio-economic sustainability and resilience within coastal communities.

Easier said than done, however.

Integrating LEK within Euro-centric scientific research methodologies is difficult work and we are just starting to see the marriage of these two knowledge bases in conservation. There has been much pushback from those who are staunch in their stubbornness of holding on to the old ways of science. You know, the deeply flawed and racist backbone of Euro-centric science. Yet, by combining traditional knowledge with cutting-edge scientific techniques such as satellite tagging, genetic analysis, and acoustic telemetry, researchers can unravel the complexities of shark behaviour across diverse habitats and geographical regions.

One notable example of successful LEK integration is the collaborative efforts between scientists and indigenous communities in the Pacific Islands. Indigenous knowledge holders have played a pivotal role in safeguarding shark populations while preserving cultural traditions. Still, the full potential of LEK in shark conservation remains largely untapped, hindered by systemic barriers and inadequate recognition within conventional conservation frameworks. Concerted efforts are needed to bridge the gap between scientific institutions, policymakers, and local communities, fostering inclusive dialogue and co-creation of conservation solutions. Will 2025 be the year where we see this come to fruition?

Some key initiatives to advance LEK-driven conservation should include:

·         Community-led Research Programs: Establishing collaborative research initiatives that prioritize the active participation of local communities in data collection, monitoring, and decision-making processes.

·         Cultural Revitalization and Empowerment: Recognizing and valuing indigenous knowledge systems as integral components of conservation discourse, while promoting cultural revitalization and empowerment within marginalized communities.

·         Capacity Building and Education: Investing in capacity-building programs that equip local stakeholders with the necessary skills and resources to actively engage in conservation efforts, including training in scientific methodologies, data analysis, and advocacy.

·         Policy Integration and Advocacy: Advocating for the integration of LEK into national and international conservation policies, ensuring that Indigenous rights, traditional knowledge, and customary practices are respected and upheld.

The integration of LEK holds immense promise for transforming shark conservation from a top-down endeavour into a holistic, community-driven movement. By embracing the wisdom of local communities and fostering collaborative partnerships, we can chart a sustainable path towards safeguarding these incredible predators and preserving the ecological integrity of our oceans for generations to come.

After all, healthy shark populations = healthy oceans. And don’t we all love that?