Its an exciting time for Project AWARE Foundation. After many years of gaining diver's support for sharks, five species of highly traded sharks, both manta rays and one species of sawfish were listed under CITES at the conclusion of CoP16 held this month in Bangkok, Thailand. Delegates from 170 countries considered 70 proposals affecting more than 300 species, including eight of some of the most vulnerable sharks and manta rays.

This means the oceanic whitetip, porbeagle, three species of hammerheads and both manta rays - all classified as threatened on IUCN’s Red List – are now added to CITES Appendix II.

Its a historic achievement for marine species and a huge success for divers around the globe.