Fiji Shark Project: Sustainable Protection and Research of Bull Sharks in Shark Reef Marine Reserve
Fiji Shark Project at the Shark Reef Marine Reserve on Fiji's largest island, Viti Levu, is a leading initiative in shark conservation and sustainable marine research. This project facilitates the observation of over 300 fish species and eight regularly occurring shark species, with a special focus on interactions with bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas). The Marine Park is managed by a local dive operator in collaboration with two indigenous villages that have relinquished their fishing rights in favor of direct participation in dive revenues. This local community involvement combines the benefits of eco-friendly tourism with effective, sustainable wildlife conservation. Since its inception in 2004 by a dedicated team led by Mike Neumann, a former executive at Deutsche Bank, the park has become a significant research site. Dr. Juerg Brunnschweiler, a renowned Swiss zoologist, and John Earle from the Bishop Museum in Hawaii conduct groundbreaking studies with the team. Thanks to the generous support of the Swiss Shark Foundation, the Save Our Seas Foundation, and the PADI Project AWARE, fascinating research results have been achieved. The Bull Shark Tagging Programme is one of the core projects, utilizing modern satellite technology and acoustic telemetry to track the migration patterns of sharks and fish. By placing acoustic receivers and transmitters on various reefs, detailed data on the habitat usage and movement patterns of the sharks are collected. These insights enable informed decisions regarding the expansion of protected zones, which has already led to the implementation of a 30 nautical mile protected shark corridor. The project represents a successful symbiosis of scientific research, sustainable tourism, and local engagement, significantly contributing to the protection of sharks and marine biodiversity.
