Mediterranean Great White Sharks Face Extinction Due to Illegal Fishing

Great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) in the Mediterranean Sea are critically endangered, primarily due to illegal fishing practices. Research conducted by scientists from Virginia Tech in collaboration with the UK charity Blue Marine Foundation highlights the alarming decline of these apex predators. In 2025 alone, at least 40 great white sharks were reported killed along the North African coast, despite international protections that prohibit their capture and sale.

Mediterranean Great White Sharks on the Brink of Extinction, Researchers WarnGreen MattersBBC NewsDaily StarThe Morning NewsPeople MagazineGreat white sharks are facing extinction, researchers say, after reports of deaths and sales in markets.

Lead researcher Dr. Francesco Ferretti emphasized the unique challenges faced by shark populations in the Mediterranean, stating, "No other stretch of water is fished like the Mediterranean Sea." The Mediterranean is recognized as one of the most exploited fisheries globally, with illegal fishing contributing significantly to the decline of various shark species, including the great white. The team aimed to fit satellite tracking tags onto these sharks—a first for the region—but after two weeks of extensive efforts involving over three tons of bait, they failed to locate any great whites for tagging, capturing only a brief glimpse of a blue shark.

BBC NewsPeople MagazineDaily StarGreat white sharks face extinction in Mediterranean, say researchersMediterranean Great White Sharks on the Brink of Extinction, Researchers WarnGreat white sharks are facing extinction, researchers say, after reports of deaths and sales in markets.Green MattersThe Morning News

Despite legal protections, great white sharks are still being sold in North African fish markets. Footage verified by researchers shows protected species being landed in ports in Algeria and Tunisia, where their fins and heads are prepared for sale. The European Union and 23 Mediterranean countries have signed an agreement that mandates these species must not be retained, landed, or sold. However, enforcement of these regulations varies significantly across countries, leading to continued illegal activity.

Great white sharks are facing extinction, researchers say, after reports of deaths and sales in markets.

Conservationists argue that the economic pressures faced by local fishermen complicate the situation. Sara Almabruk from the Libyan Biology Society noted, "Why would they throw sharks back into the sea when they need food for their children?" This sentiment underscores the need for sustainable fishing practices and support for local communities to reduce reliance on illegal shark fishing.

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James Glancy from Blue Marine expressed a cautious optimism, stating, "It shows that there is wildlife left... if we can preserve this, there is a chance of recovery." However, he also stressed the urgency of the situation, urging immediate action to protect these species. Dr. Ferretti's observations reflect a grim reality: "It just shows how degraded this ecosystem is."

The Morning News

The future of great white sharks in the Mediterranean hinges on collaborative efforts among Mediterranean countries to enforce existing protections and promote sustainable fishing practices. Without significant changes, the risk of extinction for these sharks—and the broader marine ecosystem—remains high. Conservationists are advocating for immediate action to address illegal fishing and support local communities in adopting more sustainable practices.

Mediterranean Great White Sharks on the Brink of Extinction, Researchers Warn

• “No other stretch of water is fished like the Mediterranean Sea,” — Dr. Francesco Ferretti, Lead Researcher, Virginia Tech

Great white sharks face extinction in Mediterranean, say researchers

• “It just shows how degraded this ecosystem is.” — Dr. Francesco Ferretti

BBC News

• “And if we can preserve this, there is a chance of recovery.” — James Glancy, Blue Marine Foundation

People Magazine

• “Why would they throw sharks back into the sea when they need food for their children?” — Sara Almabruk, Libyan Biology Society

People Magazine