By Kayla Alamilla, Minorities in Shark Sciences
There’s an aspect of shark sciences that often goes unnoticed — the diverse contribution of minds behind the research. Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS) is shedding light on the importance of inclusivity and representation in this field, ensuring that the voices of all communities are heard and valued in the quest to understand and protect these magnificent creatures.
Why do we need sharks?
Sharks, often depicted as menacing predators in popular culture, play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems. As apex predators, they help regulate populations of prey species, preventing overgrazing of marine habitats and promoting species diversity. Without sharks, these ecosystems could suffer irreparable damage, leading to cascading effects throughout the marine food web and ultimately impacting human communities that rely on the ocean for food and livelihoods.
Beyond their ecological significance, sharks also hold cultural value. For many coastal communities around the world, sharks are integral to cultural practices and traditions, serving as symbols of strength, resilience and spirituality. Even in areas where fear of sharks persists, efforts are underway to change perceptions. Through conservation and education, an increasing number of individuals are recognizing sharks as intriguing and essential beings rather than the typical caricature depicted in horror films. Understanding and protecting sharks is not only essential for maintaining healthy oceans but also for safeguarding the cultural heritage and significance of millions of people worldwide.
Shark facts
- Young lemon sharks can lose an entire set of teeth, one-by-one, every 10 days.
- The great hammerhead is the largest species in the hammerhead family. Its unique head shape helps it hunt its favorite prey: stingrays.
- A whale shark is the world’s biggest fish. Its mouth can grow up to 5 feet wide and hold more than 300 rows of tiny teeth.
- The megalodon was one of the largest predators to have ever lived. It existed more than 1.5 million years ago and grew up to 66 feet in length.
Learn more about sharks by watching “Mysteries of the Great White” on Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild. Plus, check out these shark facts from the Georgia Aquarium.
Diversity and inclusion needed in shark, marine sciences
MISS was born from the collective sense of isolation experienced by its four co-founders within the elasmobranch field (those studying the subclass of sharks and rays). After connecting through the #BlackInNature campaign, they founded MISS as a platform where gender minorities of color in marine and shark sciences could thrive together. Seeing successful scientists who resemble themselves inspires individuals to pursue their own passions. This encourages more underrepresented groups to join the field and ultimately enriches shark science with different insights and contributions.
Embracing diverse perspectives, backgrounds and knowledge in shark research and conservation planning amplifies visibility and advocacy for underrepresented groups across the board. Communities such as fishing and coastal communities of color, who bear the brunt of environmental changes, are often overlooked despite their wisdom and firsthand experiences. By prioritizing inclusivity in our scientific and conservation teams, shark science can elevate these communities to the forefront, strengthening scientific endeavors and paving the way for more holistic, sustainable approaches to marine conservation that benefit both sharks and people.
Opportunities at MISS
The mission of MISS aims for representation in marine sciences to be the norm rather than the exception. By offering free opportunities to K-12, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as professionals, the organization is actively manifesting their goal into a reality. These programs include:
- Gill Guardians: Educational content focusing on sharks, skates and rays to inform the public about their challenges and conservation efforts. Their K-12 program offers students engaging lessons on shark biology, conservation, and scientific techniques, with a special emphasis on showcasing women of color in the field.
- Science at the Sea Emerging Scholars Program: Florida-based program for middle and high school students of color. Activities include exploring local watersheds, building remotely operated vehicles and interacting with aquatic animals.
- Spring and summer camps: Florida-based camps for middle school and high school students of historically underrepresented groups. These week-long programs focus on utilizing the ocean to explore various STEM disciplines such as chemistry, environmental science and engineering.
- Internships: Being an intern with MISS offers hands-on experience assisting in shark field surveys and contributing to social media and outreach content while also providing the opportunity to undertake a scientific research project or a scientific illustration/art-based project.
- Workshops: Participants will gain hands-on field experience in shark research, learning diverse field techniques while residing on a live-aboard research vessel alongside MISS co-founders. In addition to personal development discussions and community-building activities, the members will continue to have ongoing resources and a supportive network beyond the workshop’s conclusion.
Through these initiatives, MISS is paving the way for a more accessible future in marine sciences, ensuring that everyone can contribute and thrive in this field.
As we ride the wave of shark celebrations throughout the year, it’s crucial to recognize the trailblazing efforts of gender minorities of color, such as those at MISS, who are driving positive change for sharks and humanity. Dive deeper into inspiring work and become a part of the movement by following @MISS_Elasmo on Instagram and X and exploring its opportunities on the website.
To learn about others working to create a more inclusive conservation field, check out this story on Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science.
