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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Artículo científico |
| Language: | en |
| Published: |
Marine environmental research
2026
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41202631/ |
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Table of Contents:
- Seasonal dynamics and driving factors of habitat for two small-size shark species in the northern South China Sea. Zhang, Kui Xiong, Pengli Sun, Mingshuai Chen, Zuozhi Xu, Youwei Animals Sharks Ecosystem China Seasons Conservation of Natural Resources Environmental Monitoring Oceans and Seas In recent years, sharks have been recognized as one of the most threatened marine animal groups globally. Yet small-size sharks remain disproportionately overlooked, despite their critical ecological roles and urgent conservation needs. Identifying key habitats is fundamental for effective shark conservation. To address this, we applied ensemble species distribution modeling to 2014-2023 bottom trawl survey data from the northern South China Sea (NSCS), investigating habitat preferences of two ecologically representative small-size sharks: Spadenose shark (Scoliodon laticaudus) and Sarawak pygmy swell shark (Cephaloscyllium sarawakense). The results revealed that S. laticaudus was primarily distributed in coastal waters within the 40 m depth range, with a notable concentration in the northern Beibu Gulf. In contrast, C. sarawakense was predominantly distributed in deeper waters at 100-200 m depths in the NSCS. Regarding seasonal dynamics, S. laticaudus exhibited minimal seasonal migration, while C. sarawakense showed pronounced seasonal habitat shifts, particularly a marked southwestward migration and habitat contraction during autumn. Sea surface height emerged as the most influential environmental factor for both species. However, the two sharks displayed markedly different seasonal distribution responses to environmental drivers, with C. sarawakense being influenced by a broader range of environmental factors. These findings provide valuable insights into the ecological requirements of shark species in the NSCS, offering important baseline information for future research and the development of effective conservation strategies.