Historical Use of ( Kashi Miyaru ) Shark Oil in the Maldives

Historical Use of Shark Oil in the Maldives:

• In ancient times, Maldivians used shark oil ( Miyaru Theyo ) to coat ship hulls to prevent marine organisms like algae and mollusks from attaching, which could slow the vessel. This practice was prevalent until the 1980s. Using shark oil as an antifouling agent was a traditional method to keep ship hulls clean and reduce drag, showcasing the resourcefulness of ancient Maldivians in utilizing local materials.

  
  

  In the Maldives, Gulper Shark oil ( Kashi Miyaru Theyo ) was historically used for various medicinal purposes. The Maldives has a long history of shark fishing, with Gulper Sharks being part of the deepwater fisheries. The liver oil from these sharks, rich in squalene, has been a sought-after export product, used in dietary supplements and cosmetic products like sunscreens, anti-aging creams, and personal care items. The export of shark liver oil from the Maldives highlights its value as a trade commodity. This dual role of Gulper Shark oil in local medicinal practices and international trade reflects the historical and economic significance of shark products in the Maldives.

• The shark fisheries ban in the Maldives was implemented in 2010, creating one of the world's largest shark sanctuaries, covering about 90,000 square kilometers. Here's how and why the ban was established:

  
  

  How the Ban Was Implemented:

  • Legislation: The Maldivian government enacted laws prohibiting the catching, selling, and exporting of shark products as part of a broader marine conservation effort to protect the marine ecosystem, particularly shark populations vital to ocean health.

  • Public and International Pressure: Local and international conservation groups, divers, and tourism stakeholders influenced the decision, emphasizing sharks' importance for dive tourism and the marine environment. Public campaigns and petitions significantly pressured the government to maintain the sanctuary status.

  
  

  Why the Ban Was Introduced:

  • Conservation: Sharks faced significant decline due to overfishing, highlighted by research. The ban aimed to reverse this trend by allowing shark populations to recover, given their slow reproductive rates and long lifespans, making them vulnerable to overfishing.

  • Economic Benefits: The Maldives has a significant tourism sector, with shark diving being a major attraction. Studies showed that live sharks contribute more economically through tourism than fishing. The ban was seen as a way to sustain and enhance this revenue stream, with increased shark populations potentially boosting dive tourism significantly.

  • Marine Ecosystem Health: Sharks play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance. Their presence helps control other species populations, preserving coral reefs and marine life. The ban recognized this ecological importance.

  
  

  Shift Away from Shark Oil:

  • Technological Alternatives: The shift from using shark oil, especially for antifouling, coincided with the development of synthetic antifouling paints, which are more effective and environmentally less harmful.

  • Conservation Awareness: Increased awareness of marine conservation, including the ethical and ecological implications of using shark products, further reduced shark oil use. This awareness was bolstered by global calls for shark conservation, exemplified by the Maldives ban.

  
  

  Thus, the Maldives' ban on shark fisheries was a multifaceted decision driven by conservation needs, economic considerations, and the global shift towards more sustainable marine resource practices.

  Shark oil uses

  Marine sanctuaries

  
  
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