Sharks belong within the group of cartilaginous fish and sit on top of the food chain. They are large predators, and perform the role of maintaining stability in the population of other predators, herbivores, and overall ecosystem.
Additionally, nature is wise and has its ways of regulating the populations of predatory species. For example, the age at which a hammerhead shark (Sphirna lewini) starts reproducing is at six years of age in males, and 16 for females. The gestation period is 12 months, and its progeny varies between two and 38 neonates.
For this reason, the recovery of the overexploited population by unconscious fishing is a very slow process. It can only happen if there are enough reproductive individuals, and simultaneously regulating the cause of its decline.
In Costa Rica, the main threat to sharks is the illegal hunting of shark fins. This activity keeps alive the clandestine supply to a millionaire business in Asian countries, where the price can go up to more than $ 500 per kilo.
Shark meat is also sold as bolillo or dogfish, and has a great demand for the preparation of ceviche. I invite readers to try ceviche prepared with any other fish species that have not been overexploited. Recently, somebody told me that ceviche made with pompano fish has a much better taste, texture, and price.
INFO: PASE responsible consumption – Reserva Playa Tortuga – http://www.reservaplayatortuga.org/
