‘Curious Conversations’ podcast: Francesco Ferretti talks about the unknowns of sharks
Francesco Ferretti joined Virginia Tech’s “Curious Conversations” to talk about the state of shark populations worldwide and the knowledge gaps that challenge conservation strategies. Ferretti explained the role of sharks in the larger marine ecosystem, the challenges of gathering data on shark populations, and the role citizen scientists can play in overcoming that challenge.
“Curious Conversations” is available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.
Takeaways
A decline in shark populations can lead to ecological consequences, such as overpopulation of prey species and subsequent disruptions in oceanic food webs, and can negatively impact recreational activities and fishing.
The great white shark in the Mediterranean Sea is a genetically distinct population that has been historically depleted because of overfishing and environmental pressures.
Ferretti and his colleagues are leveraging citizen scientists and social media to collect a database of global shark sightings.
About Ferretti
Ferretti is assistant professor in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation. His research interests include characterizing the history of human impact in the ocean to better understand how this has altered marine ecosystems and develop solutions for a sustainable use of marine resources. His research spans from macro-ecology to applied management and conservation with a special focus on sharks and their relatives.
Learn more
AI, citizen science combine to help save sharks
Groundbreaking study maps the movements of marine megafauna
eDNA testing for sharks in the Mediterranean Sea yields fin-tastic results
About the podcast
"Curious Conversations" is a series of free-flowing conversations with Virginia Tech researchers that take place at the intersection of world-class research and everyday life. Produced and hosted by Travis Williams, assistant director of marketing and communications for the Office of Research and Innovation, university researchers share their expertise and motivations as well as the practical applications of their work in a format that more closely resembles chats at a cookout than classroom lectures. New episodes are shared each Tuesday.
