Threats to Shark Pups

Nearshore, shallow water nurseries provide food and abundant shelter where blacktip reef shark pups can avoid predators, such as other larger sharks. Although the word ‘nursery’ conjures images of safe, nurturing environment, there may also be dramatic fluctuations in water temperatures and oxygen levels, yet the pups are tough and generally resilient to these changes. But, as waters get warmer with climate change, future populations may be threatened. While sanctuaries might successfully remove the number one threat to these pups, they don’t protect against their second biggest threat: climate change. Will they continue to adapt and evolve over generations at a pace that’s fast enough to keep up with climate change?