Panama and Charles Darwin Foundation partner to protect Pacific sharks and rays

Panama is taking a significant step forward in marine conservation by forging a partnership with the esteemed Charles Darwin Foundation. This agreement underscores our nation's commitment to safeguarding vulnerable marine species, particularly the scalloped hammerhead shark, which plays a crucial role in the delicate ecosystem of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor. Our Ministry of Environment is leading this charge, integrating scientific research, robust regulatory measures, and vital community involvement to ensure the long-term survival of these magnificent creatures.

This collaboration is more than just a scientific endeavor; it's a testament to Panama's dedication to sustainable practices and our role as stewards of the ocean. By focusing on transboundary protection, we recognize that marine conservation knows no borders. The Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, a vast expanse of protected areas spanning Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panama, is a shared responsibility and a vital natural heritage.

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This agreement opens that door and reflects the intention to consolidate a technical and scientific collaboration that strengthens the transboundary protection of the scalloped hammerhead shark, as well as the conservation of the ecosystems and species of the Eastern Tropical Pacific that we protect through the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor.

The inclusion of local communities, especially the artisanal fishing sector, is paramount. Empowering them with knowledge and supporting their transition towards conservation efforts ensures that these initiatives are not only effective but also socially inclusive. This approach, rooted in scientific evidence and community partnership, is what sets Panama's conservation efforts apart. We are not just protecting species; we are building a sustainable future for our oceans and our people.

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The scientific basis is unequivocal. These Panamanian waters are of critical importance for the survival of the species, as they serve as essential nursery areas for pregnant sharks during their annual reproductive migrations and as key breeding habitats for juveniles during their first years of life.