# Mediterranean shark population decline

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mediterranean-shark-population-decline
> Updated: 2026-08-25T04:00:52.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Research conducted by Shark Med and Save the Med using environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has identified a significant decline in shark and ray populations in the Mediterranean Sea, specifically within the Balearic Sea and the Cabrera Marine Reserve.

Initial findings from samples collected between 2024 and 2025 indicated low diversity, detecting only 13 species including catsharks and blue sharks, but no genetic traces of highly vulnerable species such as the great white, shortfin mako, hammerhead, or porbeagle sharks. 

Subsequent reports regarding sampling at the Émile Baudot submarine mountain suggest the situation may be even more severe, with researchers noting that the presence of these species appears to be ‘practically nonexistent’ in certain sampled areas. Experts warn that the loss of these apex predators could disrupt the trophic chain and lead to the desertification of the seabed. There are also concerns that current marine protected areas may be insufficient due to the migratory nature of these species.

## Claims

- Shark Med conducted a study using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling in the Cabrera Marine Reserve. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- The study found no traces of shark or ray DNA in 80 valid samples collected over one year. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- The absence of top predators could lead to the desertification of the seabed due to uncontrolled prey population growth. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Sampling was conducted at the Émile Baudot submarine mountain, which reaches depths of 2,000 meters. (corroborated by 4 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-25: Mediterranean shark populations show critical decline, Shark Med study finds

A Shark Med study using eDNA sampling found no traces of shark or ray DNA in the Cabrera Marine Reserve, warning that the loss of these predators could lead to Mediterranean seabed desertification.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mediterranean-shark-populations-show-critical-decline-shark-med-study-finds

### 2026-08-18: Balearic Sea shark populations show significant decline

Environmental DNA analysis shows a significant scarcity of large shark species in the Balearic Sea, with no traces of vulnerable species like the great white or hammerhead detected.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/balearic-sea-shark-populations-show-significant-decline

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Cite as: Mediterranean shark population decline. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mediterranean-shark-population-decline