Cocos Island and Shark Conservation

Cocos Island, a renowned scuba diving destination, is home to a high concentration of sharks, earning it the nickname 'Shark Island.' However, overfishing and illegal shark finning threaten these marine predators. National Geographic grantee Ben Horton is documenting the illicit shark fin trade to raise awareness. Despite efforts by the Coast Guard, illegal fishing persists due to the lucrative nature of the trade. The documentary highlights the critical role sharks play in maintaining marine ecosystems and the urgent need for conservation efforts to prevent a global environmental crisis.

What makes Cocos Island National Park a unique scuba diving destination?

• The availability of shark fins

• The presence of a large number of sharks

• Its proximity to Japan

• Its location in the Atlantic Ocean

Why do commercial fishermen target Cocos Island?

• To catch rare species of dolphins

• To harvest shark fins for a lucrative market

• To conduct scientific research

• To explore new diving spots

What is Ben Horton's role in Cocos Island?

• He is a local fisherman

• He is a National Geographic grantee documenting illegal fishing

• He is a park ranger

• He is a marine biologist studying coral reefs

What challenge does the Coast Guard face when dealing with illegal fishing boats?

• Poor weather conditions

• Insufficient manpower

• Poachers often evade capture

• Lack of proper equipment

Why do poachers risk fishing in protected waters near Cocos Island?

• They are conducting research

• They are unaware of the regulations

• The likelihood of catching valuable fish is higher

• The waters are unguarded

What marine species did Ben Horton encounter while documenting at Cocos Island?

• Sea turtles

• Blue whales

• Hammerhead sharks

• Great white sharks

What is the significance of hammerhead sharks in the marine ecosystem?

• They are known for their unique migration patterns

• They are a primary food source for whales

• They help maintain the balance of the marine food chain

• They are the largest predators in the ocean

What could the disappearance of sharks from Cocos Island indicate?

• An increase in marine biodiversity

• A critical decline in global shark populations

• Improved fishing regulations

• A rise in tourism

What is the potential global impact of a decline in shark populations?

• Increased fish populations

• A collapse of marine ecosystems

• More opportunities for fishing

• Improved ocean health

Who sponsors the mission programs that Ben Horton is part of?

• World Wildlife Fund

• National Geographic

• Greenpeace

• The United Nations