Abstract

Sharks comprise a major component of the landings in Trinidad and Tobago. Up to 34 species of sharks have been identified including two deep water species. Landings however generally comprise 15 species, five of which are very common. Three of these are landed by both the inshore and offshore fisheries. Five species of hammerhead sharks have been found around Trinidad and none around Tobago. A Shark nursery area has been identified as being a zone 2 miles from shore around Trinidad.\There are few targeted shark fisheries. Landings are primarily incidental catch of other fisheries. In the artisanal fishery over 90% of landings are by the gillnet fishery which targets Scomberomorus brasiliensis (Carite). In the offshore fishery the most significant landings are by the industrial longline fishery which targets tuna and swordfish.\Landings from the artisanal fishery for most years between 1972 and 1993 show fluctuations in landings with a general decline over the years. Landings were 918 tonnes in 1991, 531 tonnes in 1992 and 440 tonnes in 1993. This may possibly be due to a combination of factors related to the biology of the species and changes in fishing gear, methods and practices. Recorded landings by the industrial fishery are variable being 55 tonnes in 1990, 4 tonnes in 1991 and 341 tonnes in 1993, and are possibly due to probable discard at sea or changes in vessel operations.\Shark fins represented 19% of landings in 1993 and only fins (23 tonnes) were recorded in 1992. Finning at sea is suspected, in the industrial fishery.\The fishery is currently unmanaged and will be affected by management measures proposed for other fisheries. Improved data collection methodologies will provide the basis for management strategies for shark resources at the national and regional levels.

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