Among the 21 species of sharks assessed by SSG, [originaltext] More than half

More than half of the world’s ocean-going sharks are at risk of extinction, a new analysis concludes. Specialists with IUCN found that 11 species are on the high-risk list, with five more showing signs of decline. The scientists are calling for global catch limits, an end to the practice of removing fins, and measures to minimize incidental catches. Shark Specialist Group(SSG)assessed data on the 21 species of sharks and their close cousins. Of the 21, one is assessed as endangered, and 10 are vulnerable. A further five are listed as near threatened, which means the signs of decline are not serious enough yet to merit a full listing. The classifications are based on a range of criteria that look at past or forecast declines in population size. For example, a population shrinking by 50% in 10 years would usually qualify as Endangered.