RECOMMENDATIONS 



PART A. WHOLE ORGANISM STUDIES 



1 . Systematics and Distribution of Sharks 



a. Present Status and General Recommendations 



Since the publications of Bigelow and Schroeder's monumental works in 

 1948, much knowledge has been accumulated about the biology and identifi- 

 cation of the over 300 species of sharks. 



Many problems relating to the classification of sharks have been 

 resolved in the past decade, in many cases as a result of ONR support. 

 Whereas, in the 1950' s far example, identification of many species of 

 dangerous sharks was hampered by the chaotic state of taxonomy, it is now 

 possible, at least for specialists, to identify these species with a high 

 degree of certainty. 



However, dissemination of this improved knowledge to the greatly 

 increased number of people interested in sharks has been slow and in- 

 efficient. Implementation of the recommendations in this report would 

 facilitate the widest distribution of this information to the greatest 

 possible audience. 



We recognize that users of this information fall into two large groups, 

 the interests of which may overlap. Accurate identification is essential, 

 for example, by those persons in shark- infested areas in order to assess 

 the degree of danger to which they may be exposed. A diver working in an 

 area where there may be many individuals of a harmless species may be 

 greatly aided by this knowledge. Conversely, the accurate identification 

 of dangerous species and some general knowledge of their habits will 

 suggest appropriate caution for protection of personnel and in the planning 

 of operations. In the event of attack, accurate identification of the 

 shark involved is essential in any report of the incident; incorrect ident- 

 ification will lead to future misunderstandings. 



Accurate identification is also essential to those studying the 

 physiology, behavior, medical, and bionic aspects of sharks. For example, 

 a behavioral scientist who documents a lack of territorial aggression in 

 a misidentif ied species may dangerously mislead personnel who encounter 

 a similar species that is territorially aggressive. 



Trustworthy identification of dangerous sharks in both the laboratory 

 and in the field will insure efficient use of research and mission funds. 

 Research experiments or field encounters involving misidentif ication may 

 lead to the waste of resources and the endangering of personnel. 



We recommend assembly of two manuals which would disseminate present 

 and future knowledge to all groups associated with shark biology. The 

 first, "A Guide to Sharks of the World," would allow ease of identification, 

 and provide general information on distribution and pertinent habits. 

 The second, "A Systematic Catalogue of Sharks and Rays of the World," 

 would provide a universal reference list allowing increased stability of 



