"What is wrong with that shark?" - That's real reaction to someone seeing a SPOT tag for the first time.

Sometimes we need the clear and honest reaction of someone on the outside to bring us back to earth.  A permit, a degree, a big boat...none of these mean you necessarily know what is best for the shark or even have the best intentions. When you look at something and cringe because it looks that bad it shouldn't be ignored.  As you peruse the images below, ask yourself....
  • Exactly how does the data from these tags help the shark?  What is done with it?  Anything? Sure, it's studied, but to what result? Can you track down any real evidence of shark conservation thanks to these tags?
  • Do the tags even work?  You might be surprised at the failure rate.
  • How do these tags affect the shark in its daily life?
  • Are there other ways to collect this data?

Click here to see these fins in their natural form. 

Scientific papers on fins