While the newly discovered Dudgeon\u2019s epaulette shark faces an uncertain future, a concurrent study published on June 24, 2026, in Frontiers in Fish Science provides definitive proof that robust conservation policies work.<\/p>\n
In the Dampier Strait of Raja Ampat, Indonesia, researchers monitoring the Raja Ampat walking shark recorded the highest population density ever documented for the genus worldwide. In the waters off Sawinggrai Village, densities reached a staggering 2,462 sharks per square kilometre.<\/p>\n
This population boom comes just three years after the Indonesian government granted the species full legal protection in 2023.<\/p>\n
During the study, researchers logged 1,191 sightings, identifying 736 unique individuals.<\/p>\n
The maximum distance any single shark moved during the study was just 475 metres, with no movement between islands.<\/p>\n
Juveniles heavily rely on coral reefs, with 69% found there, while adults transition to seagrass beds and sand flats.<\/p>\n
The contrast between the two studies highlights an important reality: walking sharks are incredibly vulnerable due to their limited mobility, but they respond spectacularly well to habitat protection.<\/p>\n
\u201cTheir strong attachment to coastal and shallow-water habitats makes them vulnerable to local disturbances such as coastal development and pollution,\u201d said Dr Edy Setyawan, Lead Conservation Scientist from the Elasmobranch Institute Indonesia.\u00a0<\/p>\n
He noted that the data will ensure protective measures are: \u201cTruly effective on the ground and not merely policies on paper.\u201d<\/p>\n
Local indigenous communities have been the secret weapon in this conservation success. In Raja Ampat, local villagers walked the reefs at low tide alongside scientists to gather data.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor us, this shark is not just a rare animal that needs protection. They are neighbours that live in our front yard,\u201d said Ronald Mambrasar, an Arborek Village resident and shark monitor.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cSeeing scientific data that proves their population is healthy fills us with pride,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n