Sharks and Rays in Cuban Coral Reefs: Ecology, Fisheries, and Conservation

Abstract

Many species of sharks and their relatives show a strong affinity to coral reefs and add high value to reef fisheries and tourism. Despite the economic and ecological importance of these elasmobranchs to reef systems, a recent study found no sharks on almost 20% of surveyed coral reefs around the world. In this chapter, we review relevant information on the elasmobranchs of Cuba’s coral reefs and their fisheries, biology, and ecology, including new data collected as part of several multinational collaborative projects in Cuba. Many elasmobranch species are considered endangered or threatened in various parts of the world, but their legal protection in Cuba is very limited. Cuban stakeholders who utilize elasmobranchs are diverse, necessitating strong coordination among several sectors for sound management. Status and trends of elasmobranch populations in Cuba are uncertain, but population levels appear to be low and decreasing, likely due to overfishing. Movement patterns of these populations include the Wider Caribbean Region and beyond. Cuban marine protected areas do not seem to play a significant role in elasmobranch protection, except in the Jardines de la Reina National Park, but even in this park sharks and rays are threatened. We discuss research topics and management options that include marine protected areas, traditional and modern fisheries tools, and non-consumptive tourism, all with positive examples in Cuba where stakeholders and government must work together for conservation and sustainable use of elasmobranch resources.