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Research
Publications
Publications

Through the past 10 years, our researchers has published and mentored:

3 Books and monographs

37 Journal articles

33 Conference proceedings

5 Master's thesis

11 Bachelor's degrees

You can download most of our publications for free

REQUEST FREE BOOK

New Book!

Shark, skates and rays of the eastern Adriatic Sea

Author Andrej A. Gajić

Comprehensive review of 60 species, 330 pages, supported by ministries of three countries!

Based on projects:
– Rufford Foundation (5)
– National Geographic (2)
– Discovery Channel (2)
– Foundation Ensemble (1)
– PADI Foundation (1)
– Ministry of Science (5)
– Explorers Club (2)

UNDER THE AUSPICIES OF

Featured papers

Original research

The first record of gravid Gymnura altavela in the northern Mediterranean Sea, with description of foetuses

Journal of Fish Biology

Original research

Contemporary records of the rare and critically endangered angular rough shark (Oxynotus centrina) from Adriatic Sea

Journal of Fish Biology

Publications
Projects
Internships
Media
About us

Current
Research

At the core of our endeavors resides
pioneering multidisciplinary research.

REHABILITATION

LAB RESEARCH

FIELD RESEARCH

Assessing resilience through science, rehabilitation, and diagnostics

POST-CAPTURE SURVIVAL

At-Vessel Monitoring

At-vessel monitoring provides immediate, standardized assessments of capture stress, injury severity, and post-release survival potential.

In-vitro Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation in our specialized tanks allows controlled healing observation, revealing recovery patterns critical for improving shark survival outcomes.

Post-release examinations

Conducting post-release clinical examinations to assess the recovery rates and long-term survival, informing conservation actions.

Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and X-Rays to Study

TRAUMA & INJURIES

Sample preparation

Before conducting examinations, we carefully prepare the samples by ensuring either the use of anesthetics or proper preservation.

Step 1

MRI/CT acquisition

Employing suitable radiofrequency coils and imaging sequences optimized for capturing detailed anatomical information from shark tissues.

Step 2

Data Analysis

Utilizing imaging software to reconstruct and visualize the collected data, while extracting relevant anatomical and physiological information.

Step 3

The effects of pollution on disease development

PATHOLOGY

Post-mortem examinations

Understanding the factors influencing shark populations through pathological examinations is essential for effective conservation strategies.

Step 1

Macroscopic examinations

Observation and analysis of gross pathological features, providing insights into the macro-level manifestations of diseases or abnormalities.

Step 2

Histological examinations

We are examining abnormal tissue structures at the microscopic level for precise diagnoses and understanding of the causes of diseases.

Step 3

qualitative and quantitative assessment of micro- and nanoplastics

MICROPLASTICS

Sample preparation

Upon the autopsy, the tissue sample undergoes a chemical breakdown to isolate and extract embedded microplastic particles.

Step 1

Stereomicroscopy

Stereomicroscopy plays a crucial role in microplastic research by providing a three-dimensional view of particles and secluding them for spectroscopy.

Step 2

RAMAN Spectroscopy

Final step is identifying and characterizing microplastics based on their molecular vibrations, by irradiating a sample with laser light.

Step 3

FIELD RESEARCH

Using a dynamic approach, we combine immersive diving and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) surveys, and comprehensive fishery monitoring.

Giving sharks a second chance they deserve

ADVANCED MONITORING

Technical and SCUBA diving

To gain proper insight, we are integrating technical and SCUBA diving methodologies, as well as simple breath-holding diving, in shark research.

Fishery monitoring

Conducting comprehensive and systematic monitoring of trawl fisheries with approximately 150 field days annually focusing on elasmobranchs.

Engaging Fishermen

Successfully fostering collaboration with fishermen to actively participate in and support conservation initiatives and promote sustainability.

Projects

Explore our current research funded by world's most recognized and most competitive funders.

Browse our Projects

Meet some of our funders here

PEEK INTO OUR WET LAB AND EXAMINATIONS CONDUCTED THROUGHOUT 2023

BE OUR VIRTUAL GUEST

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.