Researchers tag juvenile spiny dogfish sharks in Ofoten

Marine researchers from the Institute of Marine Research have successfully tagged five juvenile spiny dogfish sharks in Ofoten, Norway. This discovery is significant because scientists currently lack detailed knowledge regarding the specific locations where this species gives birth and where the young sharks reside during their growth phases.

The tagging process is part of the ‘Sharks on the Move’ project. The satellite tags are designed to remain attached for one year, after which they detach and transmit collected movement data to researchers. One of the tagged juveniles, measuring 160 centimeters, was equipped with an additional tag capable of sending real-time signals when its antenna breaks the water surface. Early tracking shows this individual has already traveled between Røst, Bodø, and Vestfjorden.

While previous tagging of larger sharks in Vesterålen has revealed that the species performs massive, rapid migrations across the Atlantic Ocean, the data from these juveniles aims to fill critical gaps in life-cycle understanding. This information is vital for the management and conservation of the species, which is currently considered vulnerable due to a long generation time and a history of overfishing.