Overview

• A peer-reviewed analysis of 268 photo-identified sharks tracked from 2010 to 2023 reports 77% with visible anthropogenic scarring.
• Severe human-caused injuries such as propeller lacerations or amputations were documented in 17.7% of individuals, with minor abrasions far more common.
• Collisions or rubbing at traditional fishing platforms known as bagans and interactions with tour boats were identified as the primary sources of harm.
• The aggregation is dominated by juvenile males (about 90%) with high residency and resighting in Cenderawasih Bay and Kaimana, underscoring local conservation and tourism value.
• Authors call for removal of sharp edges from bagans, enforcement of slow-speed zones and boat limits, and engagement with marine protected area managers to formalize these measures.