| Grantee | James Cook University ↗ |
| Location | Indonesia |
| Grant Amount | $24,938.40 |
| Duration | 18 months |
| Type of Grant | Small |
In 2023, a research team led by James Cook University and Hasanuddin University located a population of Ganges Shark, Glyphis gangeticus, in North Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo), with 17 individuals observed in 4 days. This was an incredibly exciting discovery. Prior to this, the Ganges Shark had only been sporadically observed in its known range, and in 2021 it was assessed as Critically Endangered by IUCN with an estimated mature population size of less than 250 individuals. This is perhaps a last opportunity to safeguard this species from extinction.
Through engaging local government actors and working with local university partners, we will collate the requisite information and government support to recommend the national protection of this species, providing a vital policy tool to safeguard the future of this population. Our vision is for the estuaries of North Kalimantan to be a refuge for the Ganges Shark. Semangat!