We, the undersigned scientists, call on European Union Ministers and fishery managers to ensure conservation of sharks and rays of European waters. We are deeply concerned over the failure to heed scientific advice for several exceptionally vulnerable and depleted species (porbeagle, spiny dogfish and deepwater sharks) and the lack of information and restriction for many other shark and ray species in the region. These and other serious problems should be addressed as part of comprehensive European Union plan to conserve sharks and rays, which is still lacking despite several commitments to its development. Most sharks (and closely related rays) grow slowly, mature late and produce few young, leaving their populations especially vulnerable to overfishing and slow to recover once depleted. Many European shark and ray populations have declined due to overfishing, some seriously so. Several populations will already require many decades to rebuild and yet continue to be subject to excessive fishing pressure.

For example, scientists have recommended no targeted fishing and reduction of incidental catch of Northeast Atlantic porbeagle sharks (Lamna nasus) and spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias), two species considered Critically Endangered by the IUCN (World Conservation Union). Despite these recommendations, the latest actions by the Council of Ministers allow targeted fishing to continue.

Scientists have also advised zero catch of exceptionally slow growing deepwater sharks. Several of these species, including the Portuguese dogfish (Centroscymnus coelolepis), the leafscale gulper shark (Centrophorus squamosus) and the gulper shark (Centrophorus granulosus) are considered Threatened by the IUCN. Whereas some deepwater fisheries have been closed, fishing for deepwater sharks continues in European waters, contrary to scientific warnings.

The life history characteristics of sharks and rays argue for a precautionary approach instead of the risk prone strategy regularly employed by fishery managers. Conservation action, based on scientific advice, is urgently needed to avoid population collapse, begin rebuilding and prevent future overfishing, thereby ensuring the sustainability of these valuable resources. We urge EU fishery ministers and managers to support immediate implementation of the available scientific advice for shark and ray species while working without delay toward the development and implementation of a European Union shark fisheries data collection and management plan.