Shark Conservation: Why You Should Care!

Sharks are so important to the natural order of marine biodiversity, but practices in the fishing industry have harmful effects on sharks, and many other species. As a result, urgent action is needed to restore balance to the ocean. I am presently a Professor in the Biology Department and I am Director of the University of Mississippi Center for Biodiversity and Conservation Research. My undergraduate degree is from the University of Alabama, Birmingham, my Masters’ Degree from the University of South Alabama and my Doctoral Degree is from the University of South Florida, School of Marine Science. I have been recognized and received awards for my marine and freshwater conservation research by the World Wildlife Fund, the Rolex Corporation, the Walton Foundation for Marine Research, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, two different governors of Mississippi, the National Marine Fisheries Service, The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and various other organizations. I was asked to testify as a shark expert before the U. S. Congress last year. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/ted