Through a multidisciplinary approach, this study demonstrated that the previously assumed abundance and catch rates (Bakiu & Soldo, 2021; Soldo & Lipej, 2022) of blackspotted smooth-hound sharks were significantly underestimated. The results presented herein included 23 individuals in vicinity of Vlore, compared to about five individuals in entire Adriatic per year as reported by Soldo & Lipej (2022). Furthermore, three potential nursery areas were identified, with a preliminary habitat analysis conducted.
This study presents the first analysis of abundance, frequency, diet, health, heavy metal contaminations and ecology of the Blackspotted smooth-hound in the Southern Adriatic Sea. The conducted pathological examination revealed no major alternations, except lesions described in one adult individual. Comparison with the North Adriatic Sea and wider Mediterranean Sea was conducted and discussed. Despite alarming concentrations of certain trace elements in target tissues, no direct impact on shark’s health were observed which warrant further studies.
The primary anthropogenic threats identified were artisanal and commercial fisheries, with inadequate legislation and continuous targeting potentially increasing pressure. Notably, the species showed resilience against mechanical and barotraumatic injuries, suggesting a potential high post-capture survival rate if released. Urgent further research is needed to prevent the continued decline of this valuable species.
