The leopard shark is considered a symbol of Patagonian waters, and its conservation holds a central place in the environmental agenda of Chubut.
In 2025, the province declared it a Natural Monument, prohibiting its slaughter and establishing the obligation to return it to the sea alive.
According to Nacho Gutiérrez, a member of the conservation area of the Patagonia Azul Project, all regulations and actions aim to ensure the survival of this species in the region.
Distinctive Features
To identify it on the beaches of Chubut, one must observe a unique characteristic: it is the only shark in the area with seven gills. Added to this is its large size, grayish coloration with dark spots, and a rounded head with a wide mouth.
Habits and Diet
During certain times of the year, leopard sharks approach coastal areas of shallow depth and muddy bottoms, which explains their frequent capture in sport fishing from the beach.
In Patagonia, they feed on sea lions and elephant seals, as well as fish and invertebrates. They are among the few shark species capable of including marine mammals in their diet. They also take advantage of decomposing remains thanks to their scavenging habits.
Research and Tagging
The Patagonia Azul team is developing a project to understand the movements and coastal uses by these sharks. Each captured specimen is measured, weighed, and tagged with a traditional plastic tag, known as “spaghetti,” which includes an identification number and a contact phone number.
This system allows for obtaining information if the animal is caught again. The initial data is cross-referenced with contributions from fishermen and coastal inhabitants, generating a more complete record of the species.
Citizen Science in Action
The tracking depends on community collaboration. If a fisherman captures a tagged leopard shark, they must note the identification number, date, time, and exact location, as well as provide photos and characteristics of the specimen before returning it to the sea.
The use of circular hooks facilitates extraction without harming the animal, reinforcing the practice of responsible catch and release.
Advancements in Protection
Awareness is beginning to be reflected in local events. In the latest edition of the Salmon Festival in Chubut, the obligation to return all captured sharks to the sea during the competition was established for the first time. This measure sets a precedent in sport fishing and reinforces the need to release and report each finding.
The leopard shark faces threats, but the combination of legal protection, scientific research, and citizen participation opens a hopeful path for its conservation. With the commitment of fishermen, communities, and authorities, Patagonia can ensure the survival of this emblematic species and maintain the ecological balance of its seas.
