Environmental Impact & Conservation - Over one-third (33%) of all shark and ray species are threatened with extinction worldwide, equating to over 400 species [3] - Declining shark and ray populations have been linked to the functional extinction of seagrass meadows in the Indian Ocean and threaten coral reefs in Australia [4][5] - Sharks and rays play a crucial role in regulating the ocean's ecosystem and maintaining its balance [15] Research & Biodiversity - There are over 50 species of sharks and rays in Port Philip Bay, Australia, many of which are meso predators [8] - Research focuses on tracking shark and ray movements using small trackers and underwater listening stations to understand their role in the marine ecosystem [11][12] - Muscle biopsies are used to analyze the diet of sharks and rays, providing insights into their ecological roles [13] Threats & Human Impact - Overfishing is the number one threat to sharks and rays globally [17] - Shark products are present in everyday items like pet food, supplements, and skincare [17][18] - Three billion people rely on marine and coastal resources for their livelihoods, highlighting the importance of ocean conservation [15] Ocean's Role - The ocean provides 50% of the air we breathe, emphasizing the critical role of marine ecosystems [15]