Maximilian Hirschfeld
Other projects
26 Apr 2012
Biotelemetry of Juvenile Blacktip Sharks and the Conservation of Key Nursery Habitats in the Galapagos Archipelago
3 May 2016
Population Connectivity of Galapagos Bullhead Sharks and the Identification of Key Habitats for Conservation in the Galapagos Archipelago
18 Dec 2018
Population Connectivity of Galapagos Bullhead Sharks and the Identification of Key Habitats for Conservation in the Galápagos Archipelago
The Galapagos Islands are known for their high number of species found nowhere else on the planet. This is particularly true for species found on land, because marine animals are thought to swim or drift large distances as adults or juvenile larvae and therefore maintain connectivity between islands and continents. But is this true for the Galapagos bullhead shark, Heterodontus quoyi, a small marine fish that can only be found in shallow coastal waters around the Galapagos Islands and along the continental coast of Perú?
Master student and veterinarian, Sofía, releasing a female bullhead shark. © Maximilian Hirschfeld.
The Galapagos Bullhead Shark Project, previously supported by a Rufford Small Grant and Booster Grant, discovered that this small shark lacks connectivity between individual islands within the Galapagos archipelago, resulting in isolated populations that have small population sizes and are likely more vulnerable to local extinction. The next phase of the project will assess genetic differences between the Galapagos and continental populations and study the species’ reproductive ecology to update its conservation status.
The project will integrate genetic and genomic data with reproductive ecology and citizen science observations to identify critical habitats, assess the species’ vulnerability to man-made and natural threats, and re-evaluate its IUCN status to guide local and regional conservation management.
The body size at which sharks mature and contribute to population growth will be studied using reproductive hormones and ultrasound imaging. This information, together with genetic connectivity, can be used to evaluate the risk of local extinction of isolated populations in the Galapagos and Perú, and guide vulnerability and IUCN Red List status assessments. Further, data on the spatial distribution of the species will allow us to work with the Galapagos National Park to identify habitats essential for the species’ development and reproduction, whether these are under threat, and if adequate protection of these habitats is currently in place.
The project will also continue to deliver conservation-oriented research by involving local communities through research participation, education and outreach. By doing so, the project will generate strong scientific foundations that are rooted in the needs of local communities and contribute to long-lasting conservation solutions. The inclusion of several projects from Ecuadorian and Galapagos students will help build local capacity and form the next generation of marine biologists and conservation advocates.