Title: Global shark mortality revisited: What would Ram say?

Who: Boris Worm, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, CANADA

Abstract: In this talk I will discuss main insights from twenty years of research into the fisheries and conservation ecology of sharks and other elasmobranchs at Dalhousie University, starting with the groundbreaking work of Ram Myers. This body of work and the public awareness it has created has spurred diverse conservation measures to protect and rebuild depleted shark populations. I will present new results on the efficacy of these measures and discuss evidence-based solutions to reverse the overexploitation of elasmobranchs worldwide. I end with some thoughts on the relationship between conservation science, societal change, and our relationship to the natural world.

Speaker Bio: Boris Worm is a marine ecologist and Professor in Marine Conservation Biology at the Biology Department, Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. His research focuses on the causes and consequences of changes in marine biodiversity, and its conservation on a global scale. He is particularly well known for his studies on the global effects fishing and climate change on ocean ecosystems. He has a special interest in the rebuilding of fisheries resources, and in policy solutions that can help to prevent further loss of marine biodiversity worldwide. He also works to promote Ocean Literacy through his work with the CBC, other media and his role as Scientific Director for Ocean School, an online learning resource for teachers and students created in collaboration with the National Film Board of Canada.

Twitter: @cbcoceansguy Website: http://wormlab.biology.dal.ca