We bring new knowledge

Scientific Research

At the heart of our activities lies multidisciplinary cutting-edge research, where we delve into the ecology, pathology, and conservation of elasmobranchs

The deep-sea research

Diving deep into the mysteries of the abyss, uncovering the secrets of elusive and endangered deep-sea species of the northern Mediterranean Sea

Post-capture survival

We utilize pathology, radiology, and histology for a comprehensive understanding of health and post-capture survival rates

From rarity to reality

Unveiling groundbreaking data on elusive elasmobranchs from the northern Mediterranean, derived from systematic field research

Rediscovering species

Through our systematic field research and monitoring we have rediscovered populations of species thought to be extinct in the region.

Internship program

Check our recent calls and reflecting on successful internships, where valuable skills were gained, connections made, and memorable experiences cherished

Field Research

Engaged in the forefront of marine exploration, our team is actively conducting cutting-edge underwater research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge. Leveraging a dynamic approach, we employ a combination of immersive diving experiences and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) surveys. Besides, we play a crucial role in comprehensive fishery monitoring. This involves conducting meticulous trawl surveys designed not only to understand the marine ecosystem but also to enhance post-capture survival strategies. We dedicate more than 120 days annually to fieldwork! 

Working with Sharks

Diving into the world of sharks is an exhilarating experience. As I descend beneath the waves, the ocean comes alive with these majestic creatures. The play of sunlight dances on their sleek bodies as they gracefully navigate their underwater realm. This endeavor is more than just a job; it’s a profound privilege to witness the beauty and unravel the mysteries of sharks up close. Each dive is a unique exploration, offering fresh insights into their intricate behaviors and reinforcing a deep respect for these incredible beings. The underwater encounters with sharks serve as a constant reminder of the importance of their conservation. Support our work to save them!

FIELD RESEARCH

Engaged in the forefront of marine exploration, our team is actively conducting cutting-edge underwater research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge. Leveraging a dynamic approach, we employ a combination of immersive diving experiences and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) surveys. Besides, we play a crucial role in comprehensive fishery monitoring. This involves conducting meticulous trawl surveys designed not only to understand the marine ecosystem but also to enhance post-capture survival strategies. We dedicate more than 120 days annually to fieldwork!

Sharklab ADRIA Celebrates

Andrea G. Martin successfully defended their Master’s theses at University of Ghent!

Andrea G. Martin, an alumna of Sharklab ADRIA, has successfully defended her master’s thesis titled ‘Population Biology and Health of Deep-Sea Blackmouth Catshark (Galeus melastomus) in the Southern Adriatic Sea’ during the Annual Symposium in Nice, France. Supervised by Andrej Gajić, and conducted at our center, the thesis marks a milestone by providing the first-ever data on the population of blackmouth catsharks in the southern Adriatic Sea, along with pioneering evidence of their post-capture survival. Andrea initially joined our center through an internship in 2023 and returned to complete her thesis in 2024. We are immensely proud of her achievements and wish her continued success in her career.

Emilie De Loose successfully defended their Master’s theses at University of Ghent!

Emilie De Loose, a dedicated alumna, has successfully defended her master’s thesis titled ‘The Current State of the Population of Blackspotted Smooth-Houndshark (Mustelus punctulatus) in the Southern Adriatic Sea’ during the Annual Symposium in Nice, France. Supervised by Andrej Gajić and conducted at our center, her research delivered crucial data offering initial insights into the population dynamics and threats facing vulnerable and commercially targeted smoothhound sharks in the southern Adriatic Sea. Emilie, one of our pioneering interns in Albania, chose to return to complete her thesis in 2024. We are immensely proud of her and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

New Knowledge & Effective Solutions

Featured Papers

Gajić, A. (2024). Exploring the elusive deep-sea sharpnose sevengill shark (Heptranchias perlo) in the Adriatic Sea: novel records, health assessments and conservation implications. 

Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 34(3), e4122.

Gajić, A. (2022). New hope for critically endangered angel shark, Squatina squatina, in the eastern Adriatic Sea.

Croatian Journal of Fisheries, 80(1), 1-8.

Gajić, A., Karalić, E., Beširović, H., & Sulikowski, J. (2023). The first record of gravid Spiny butterfly ray (Gymnura altavela) in the northern Mediterranean, with description of near-term fetuses. 

Journal of Fish Biology, 102(6): 1506 – 1509.

Gajić, A., Lelo, S., Joksimović, A., Pešić, A., Tomanić, J., Beširović, H., & Dragičević, B. (2022). Contemporary records of the rare and critically endangered rough shark (Oxynotus centrina) from the Adriatic Sea. 

Journal of Fish Biology, 100(1), 329-334.

In the Media

Our groundbreaking results and impactful activities have garnered global media attention, with our scientists being featured in over 300 appearances across the planet.

Watch some of them below:

New Knowledge & Effective Solutions

Featured Projects

What lurks in the depths?

Discovering and protecting the most bizarre, the most unknown and the most interesting deep-sea species

Andrej A. Gajić
TEC Discovery Channel

New hope for Angel sharks

Discovering and protection the most endangered sharks in the world and giving them a secong chance

Andrej A. Gajić
Foundation Ensemble

Exploring Sharks of Albania

Rescue, rehabilitation, tagging (acoustic telemetry) and re-introduction in southern Adriatic Sea of Albania

Andrej A. Gajić
Rufford Foundation

Sandbar sharks

 Exploring and protecting Sandbar Sharks throught the Mediterranean Sea

Cattano, C., Gajić, A., Livne, L., Scheinin, A., Medine, S. 
National Geographic

Spiny Butterfly Ray

First data on population and nursery area of the critically endangered spiny butterfly ray in the Adriatic Sea

Emina Karalić
Bin Zayed Conservation Fund

In the Adriatic-Ionian region, we have completed 21 projects since 2017.

View all projects

Biodiversity and habitats,  Fishery monitoring, Plastics, Disease development, Conservation, and more…

Sandbar sharks

 Exploring and protecting Sandbar Sharks throught the Mediterranean Sea

Cattano, C., Gajić, A., Livne, L., Scheinin, A., Medine, S. 
National Geographic

Spiny Butterfly Ray

First data on population and nursery area of the critically endangered spiny butterfly ray in the Adriatic Sea

Emina Karalić
Bin Zayed Conservation Fund

In the Adriatic-Ionian region, we have completed 21 projects since 2017.

View all projects

Biodiversity and habitats,  Fishery monitoring, Plastics, Disease development, Conservation, and more…

OUR ACTIVITIES AND STUDIED ARE FUNDED AND SUPPORTED BY OUR AWESOME

PARTNERS

OUR ACTIVITIES AND STUDIED ARE FUNDED AND SUPPORTED BY OUR

PARTNERS

2023 in pictures

While our utmost efforts are dedicated to reviving and releasing live individuals, those that have succumbed are utilized for laboratory research. Throughout 2023, we examined over 6,500 specimens representing 28 species, encompassing nearly half of the elasmobranchs documented in the Adriatic Sea. The study unveiled vital data for numerous species that were previously unknown in the region before our research. Importantly, our commitment remains unwavering—we neither kill nor harm any individuals in the pursuit of knowledge. 

2023 in pictures

Throughout 2023, we examined over 6,500 specimens representing 28 species, encompassing nearly half of the elasmobranchs documented in the Adriatic Sea. Importantly, our commitment remains unwavering—we neither kill nor harm any individuals in the pursuit of knowledge. 

Open Call for 2024/2025

Internships &

Master's

We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a passion for working with marine fauna, particularly sharks, to gain invaluable experience. 

Additionally, we welcome master’s students to develop their theses through our scientific research.

Revive & Release

Enhancing

survival rates

Improving post-release survival rates in sharks involves using non-barbed circle hooks, proper handling techniques, and implementing stricter fishing regulations to reduce stress and injury during catch-and-release practices.

ACTIVITIES

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Designed and developed: A. Gajić