Dr. John Carlson is a man on a mission. As a research biologist with the Southeast Fisheries Science Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), he has dedicated his career to the conservation of shark species, many of which are facing the threat of extinction.
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
Around one-third of shark species across the globe are threatened with extinction, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Overfishing, habitat destruction and climate change are among the major reasons contributing towards this alarming situation.
Carlson’s Fight Against Extinction
Dr. Carlson is not taking this lying down. With a specialty in studying life history, ecology, and behavior of large coastal and pelagic sharks, he has spent most of his career gathering comprehensive data on these apex predators, data which is crucial for creating effective preservation strategies.
He has been instrumental in putting several conservation initiatives in motion. For instance, he has helped implement measures, like catch limits, gear restrictions, and area closures, to prevent overfishing. Stricter fishing regulations formulated with his insights also ensure the accidental catch (or bycatch) of sharks is reduced.
Moreover, Carlson carries out regular surveys and long-term monitoring in collaboration with domestic and international partners. This provides a clearer idea about shark populations, their migratory patterns, and their habitats – knowledge that’s essential for any effective conservation plan.
Education and Public Awareness Outreach
In addition to his research and legislative efforts, Carlson believes that public education
