Simon Berrow: How do you save a shark you know nothing about?

The video discusses basking sharks, highlighting their size, diet, and presence in Ireland. It covers their historical importance to coastal communities, particularly for oil extraction. The decline in their population due to overfishing is addressed, along with conservation efforts and research initiatives. Genetic studies reveal low diversity, suggesting a risk of extinction. Innovative sampling techniques, like collecting slime, are explored to gather genetic data. The video emphasizes the need for further research and conservation to protect these magnificent creatures.

What is the maximum length that basking sharks can grow to?

How much water can basking sharks filter in an hour?

What was the historical significance of basking sharks to coastal communities?

What was the primary use of the oil extracted from basking sharks?

What is the current conservation status of basking sharks according to the IUCN?

What are some of the methods used to tag basking sharks for research?

What surprising finding was revealed about the genetic diversity of basking sharks?

What is the estimated effective population size of basking sharks?

What challenges do researchers face in studying basking sharks?

How did researchers collect DNA samples from basking sharks?