Kudos to Indonesia which recently designated the Raja Ampat Archipelago, a chain of 1,500 tropical islands, a shark and manta ray sanctuary. This patch of 18,000 square miles of rich, diverse ocean is known as the “Amazon of the Ocean”.

Global shark populations are quickly declining due to extreme fishing pressure brought on by the demand for shark fin soup. Fishing practices often involve cutting the fins off and returning the unused carcass to the sea.

These islands are known as one of the best tropical diving locations in the world and live sharks drawing tourists is far more profitable than over-harvesting for a short, one-time gain. The sanctuary will support no-catch zones which support the recovery of shark populations.

© Copyright Vince Capone 2013