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It all began with Bianca Rangel's doctoral research. This physiology biologist at the University of São Paulo is studying sharks and rays in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago. 

They are the most threatened megafauna in the region. This archipelago is one of the few refuges for these animals in Brazilian waters and is a priority area for their conservation in the Atlantic Ocean. 

An essential marine species to be protected 

Sharks and rays are essential for the health of the marine ecosystem. They occupy prominent positions in the marine food chain, playing important roles as predators. They assist in controlling the population of other species, removing sick individuals, facilitating the feeding of other species, among other functions. 

In just a few years, the scientist set up the Instituto Vida no Oceano with Fabio Borges, who coordinates the Shark & Ray project. They have involved many local community by extrapolating the initial goals of her research. 

The project, dedicated to the conservation of sharks and rays, is based on three pillars: science, education and ecotourism. It provided training for dozens of local guides about sharks & rays, with a multipling effect on raising awareness about the preservation of these species. 

In the research side, the team is developing some important projects, including drone sharks monitoring, acoustic telemetry with different species and Dr. Bianca's new post-doctoral research project with lemon shark babies. 

This is the first and only project with sharks and rays of Noronha. 

Would you like to support this project? 

linktr.ee/tubaroes.raias.noronha