The city of Colombo has officially become the epicentre of global marine science this week as it hosts the prestigious Sharks International 2026 (SI2026) conference. Running from May 4th to May 8th, this monumental gathering marks a historic milestone, being the first time this quadrennial event has been staged on Asian soil. Held at the iconic Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), the summit has drawn the world’s leading researchers, policymakers, and conservationists to address the escalating crisis facing sharks, rays, and chimaeras.
For the Sri Lankan community, both at home and across the global diaspora in Australia, the UK, and beyond, this event represents far more than a scientific meeting; it is a profound testament to the island’s emerging role as a regional leader in environmental stewardship. As the primary bridge for the Sri Lankan community, eLanka is proud to highlight this significant achievement that places our heritage and natural resources in the international limelight.
A Historic First for Asia and Sri Lanka
The selection of Colombo as the host city for Sharks International 2026 is a deliberate recognition of the Indian Ocean’s critical importance in global marine biodiversity. Previous iterations of the conference have been held in prominent maritime nations such as Australia (2010), South Africa (2014), Brazil (2018), and Spain (2022). By bringing the world’s largest shark-focused scientific gathering to Sri Lanka, the global community is acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities present within South Asian waters.
Organised locally by the Blue Resources Trust (BRT) with the support of several international partners and the Lanka Environment Fund, SI2026 has successfully convened delegates from over 80 countries. The conference serves as a vital platform for democratising science, with registration subsidies and travel grants specifically designed to ensure that voices from developing nations, where shark fishing is often a critical part of the local economy, are heard at the highest levels of policy discussion.
The Biological Wealth of Sri Lankan Waters
Sri Lanka’s coastal and offshore waters are replete with an extraordinary variety of marine life. Recent scientific surveys have confirmed that approximately 105 species of sharks and rays have been recorded in the region. This diverse assemblage includes majestic whale sharks, enigmatic hammerheads, and various species of manta rays and guitarfishes.
A Sri Lankan researcher monitoring marine data off the coast of Colombo.
However, this biological wealth is currently under immense pressure. It is estimated that nearly 70 out of the 105 recorded species in Sri Lankan waters are currently threatened with extinction. Globally, the situation is equally dire, with over 100 million sharks and rays lost annually due to human activity. The conference in Colombo aims to bridge the gap between this alarming data and the implementation of robust conservation strategies.
Addressing the Conservation Crisis
The primary objective of Sharks International 2026 is to facilitate a synergy between high-level research and practical policy application. Central to the discussions is the “Conservation Crisis” that sees many species declining faster than they can reproduce. In Sri Lanka, while 70 species are at risk, only five currently enjoy formal legal protection. The local extinction of sawfishes serves as a somber reminder of what is at stake if immediate action is not taken.
Key themes being explored during the five-day event include:
- Genetic Tools for Enforcement: Implementing DNA-based identification to combat illegal fishing and the international trade of protected species.
- Bycatch Reduction: Developing innovative fishing gear and techniques to reduce the accidental capture of sharks and rays in industrial and artisanal fisheries.
- Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Expanding the network of protected corridors to safeguard migratory routes across the Indian Ocean.
- Regional Governance: Strengthening cooperation between Indian Ocean rim nations to standardise fisheries management and monitoring systems.
Delegates and researchers gathering at the BMICH for the opening sessions of SI2026.
Sri Lanka’s Strategic Importance in the “Blue Economy”
The hosting of SI2026 aligns perfectly with Sri Lanka’s broader vision of developing a sustainable “Blue Economy.” By prioritising the health of marine ecosystems, the nation is not only protecting biodiversity but also ensuring the long-term viability of its tourism and fisheries sectors. The presence of world-class scientists in Colombo provides a unique opportunity for local students and early-career researchers to engage with global experts, fostering a new generation of Sri Lankan marine biologists.
This scientific rigour is a modern continuation of the island’s long history of environmental consciousness. Just as our ancestors mastered ancient hydraulic civilisations, today’s Sri Lankans are mastering the complexities of marine ecology to preserve the island’s natural legacy for future generations.
The Indian Ocean surrounding Sri Lanka remains a vital sanctuary for the endangered Whale Shark.
A Message to the Global Sri Lankan Community
For the diaspora living in countries like Australia, where marine conservation is a highly developed field, the news of SI2026 is a source of immense pride. It showcases a Sri Lanka that is proactive, scientifically engaged, and capable of leading international discourse on global issues.
At eLanka, we encourage our members to stay informed about these developments. Whether you are a business owner looking to support sustainable initiatives or a professional interested in the intersection of technology and conservation, the progress made this week in Colombo has far-reaching implications. The innovative use of digital platforms and technology in conservation is a field where many in our community can contribute their expertise.
Modern technology is being utilised to track and protect migratory species in the Indian Ocean.
Conclusion
The Sharks International 2026 conference is more than just a gathering of scientists; it is a clarion call for the protection of our oceans. As the curtains rise on this historic event at the BMICH, the eyes of the world are firmly fixed on Colombo. The strategies and partnerships forged this week will likely determine the fate of shark and ray populations across the Indian Ocean for decades to come.
Sri Lanka has stepped up to the plate, demonstrating that it is ready to be a guardian of the deep. For the global Sri Lankan family, this is a moment to celebrate our nation’s intellectual and environmental contributions to the world.
Source: https://lankaleader.lk/news/5826-world-s-largest-conference-on-sharks-and-rays-to-be-held-in-colombo-from-today
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