1. PART 4. CONSERVATION © Scubasigns

2. 4.1 CONSERVATION Outline and Introduction 1. Whale shark conservation Status 2. Why is the whale shark vulnerable? 3. Threats to the whale shark worldwide 4. Conservation Solutions © WWF Philippines

3. 4.2 WS Conservation Status The whale shark is considered ‘Vulnerable to Extinction’ by the IUCN Potential population size reduction of ≥ 30% over 10 – 100 yrs It is protected by international agreements that protect migratory species (CMS) and prevent trade of wildlife products (CITES) © Marc Zaalberg

4. 4.3 What makes the whale shark naturally vulnerable? Slow moving - often close to the surface Slow to reach sexual maturity Infrequent reproduction Highly mobile The following natural traits make the whale shark vulnerable to threats: © Scubasigns

5. 4.4 Threats to the WS Worldwide Targeted fishing for food, liver-oil or fins © WENN

6. 4.4 Threats to the WS Worldwide Accidental fishing - shark is entangled in nets or discarded fishing tackle

7. 4.4 Threats to the WS Worldwide Pollution in the form of chemical spills or refuse

8. 4.4 Threats to the WS Worldwide Collisions with boats © MWSRP

9. 4.4 Threats to the WS Worldwide Habitat disturbance caused by unregulated tourism

10. 4.5 Conservation Solutions © IFAW

11. 4.5 Conservation Solutions Government protection: National and International

12. 4.5 Conservation Solutions Establish Marine Protected Areas (MPA’s) © james Hancock

13. 4.5 Conservation Solutions Reduce demand for whale shark products

14. 4.5 Conservation Solutions Sustainable tourism © Ecocolors

15. 4.5 Conservation Solutions Research and monitoring © Brent Stewart HSWRI

16. 4.5 Conservation Solutions Education © MWSRP