Guardians of the Eastern Pacific: Protecting Sharks and ALL Other Endangered Migratory Marine Life: Project Costa Rica.

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Join a Mission That Matters!

This is the boat that we need.

Research in the Eastern Pacific is critically important for shark conservation and the protection of other endangered marine animals for several key reasons:

1. Biodiversity Hotspots

The Eastern Pacific—especially regions like Cocos Island (Costa Rica), the Galápagos Islands, Malpelo Island (Colombia), and the Revillagigedo Archipelago (Mexico)—is a globally significant marine biodiversity hotspot. It supports a wide variety of marine life, including:

• Several species of sharks (e.g., scalloped hammerhead, silky, Galapagos, tiger)

• Endangered sea turtles

• Rays, such as oceanic manta rays

• Marine mammals, including whales and dolphins

Many of these species are endangered or vulnerable, and rely on this region for migration, feeding, mating, or giving birth.

Conducting the Research!

2. Shark Migration and Connectivity

Sharks in this region follow long migratory routes that connect multiple marine protected areas (MPAs) across national boundaries. Research helps:

3. Breeding and Nursery Grounds

Recent research (including efforts by Fins Attached) has revealed that parts of the Eastern Pacific may contain shark nurseries—critical habitats where sharks give birth and young sharks grow. Protecting these areas is vital for:

4. High Fishing Pressure and Bycatch

The Eastern Pacific experiences intense fishing pressure, both legal and illegal. Industrial fishing fleets target tuna and other species, but often accidentally catch sharks, turtles, and rays (bycatch). Research provides data to:

Sharks are in peril

5. Climate Change Impacts

The region is affected by El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events and other climate-related changes, which can:

Studying how these changes impact shark and marine animal behavior helps predict future conservation challenges.

6. Informing Conservation Action

Scientific data gathered in the Eastern Pacific underpins:

In short, the Eastern Pacific is a critical stronghold for marine megafauna, and research here is essential for creating effective, science-based conservation strategies that can be scaled regionally and globally.

This project is being carried out by the One Ocean Worldwide Coalition, which is a collaborative alliance of four marine-focused non-governmental organizations (NGOs) dedicated to ocean conservation and sustainable marine ecosystems. The coalition comprises:

The coalition's formation reflects a broader global movement toward collaborative ocean conservation efforts. This includes initiatives like the upcoming Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) in Nice, France, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, which aims to address critical issues such as marine biodiversity loss, climate change impacts, and the establishment of marine protected areas.

Your support helps our coalition, making a difference by contributing towards efforts like:

The total cost of the much needed boat is $120,000. We have already secured $50,000, leaving $70,000

Every donation, no matter the size, plays a role in safeguarding our oceans for future generations. Together, we can make a positive impact and ensure that marine life thrives. Thank you for considering a donation to support this vital cause!