The Galapagos Bullhead Shark Project
Even though this small shark species was described as early as 1840, little is known about this elusive creature. It's geographic distribution, life cycle and population size are still unknown to science. Since 2005, scientists from the Galapagos Science Center, the University of San Francisco de Quito and James Cook University, Australia, are working together with the local authorities to unravel the secret life of Galapagos bullhead sharks.
Our project uses an interdisciplinary approach, with a focus on citizen science to provide up to date information on the bullhead shark's population status and to identify threats this species may be facing. The longterm goal is to substantially improve our current knowledge of this inconspicuous shark species and to work hand in hand with local and international policy makers to ensure proper management of the bullhead shark's habitat.
Project aims
Work with the Galápagos community, including school children, naturalist guides and fishermen to improve their knowledge about bullhead sharks and convey the importance of shark conservation for the sustainable development of the Galápagos.- Provide scientific data to local players, such as the Galapagos National Park and the Ministry of Environment, and to international organizations such as the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature), to evaluate the species' vulnerability and consider adequate conservation measures.
Research outcomes:
- An estimation of the actual population size of the species (approximate total number of individual sharks)
- A blueprint the population's demography (the number of individuals of each sex and age)
- Determine the genetic makeup of the population to reveal how connected the sharks are between different islands in the Galápagos and the coast of the South American continent.
Citizen Science
This website is designed to provide anyone interested with the opportunity to play an active part in the study and conservation of this unique shark species. You, the citizen scientists, form the centerpiece of the bullhead shark project. Your participation will substantially multiply our effort, which couldn't be achieved by researchers alone. Further, this website functions as a platform to educate people around the world about the ecological importance of this and other shark species and how we can manage to protect these valuable biological resources for future generations.