More Signs of Trouble
Gajić also saw signs of trouble in other organs. Many sharks had eaten plastic. He found pieces in their stomachs and intestines. This may cause sharks’ problems and diseases.
Were these isolated cases? We don’t know. But we do know that both the diseases and eating plastic can be traced to pollution.
Gajić studies sharks in captivity, too.
Next Steps
Gajić has a lot of work ahead in further shark studies and in conservation. He has a lot of questions. Can we strengthen laws to protect the environment? Can we become more aware of how our actions affect marine life? What can kids do to help keep sharks healthy?
Gajić says there are many things that kids can do to help. For example, take
a look at the toothpaste you use. Some toothpastes contain microplastics. These are small plastic pieces that can be harmful to sea life. Avoid using these. Also stay away from disposable plastic bags and drinking straws. Many end up in our waterways.
Participating in citizen science.
Is there a beach near you? Take a walk. You may find the egg cases of some shark or skate species. Take a photo and upload it to iNaturalist. Help scientists learn where shark nursery grounds are.
And learn as much as you can about sharks. The more we know, the easier it will be to build a planet in balance.
Gajic encounters a huge jellyfish in Neum Bay.
a skate egg case found on a beach in Malta
iNaturalist is a citizen
science project and online
network of naturalists and
citizen scientists built on the concept of mapping and sharing observations of biodiversity across the globe.
To learn how to use this free program, go to:
www.inaturalist.org