Sharks are increasingly recognized as sentient animals with complex behavioral and physiological responses to stress. Their welfare matters alongside their conservation.
Shark welfare is an emerging area distinct from but linked to conservation. Finning — removing fins and discarding live sharks at sea — causes prolonged suffering before death. Bycatch stress causes physiological harm even in released animals. Catch-and-release fishing can be welfare-positive if handled carefully, minimizing air exposure and hook injury. Recognizing shark sentience strengthens both welfare and conservation arguments.