Citation: Berrow, S.D. & Heardman, C. 1994 The basking shark Cetorhinus maximus (Gunnerus) in Irish waters - patterns of distribution and abundance. Biology & Environment, Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy 94B: 101-107
Number of Pages: 7
Volume Part: 2
Keywords: Biogeography, Ecology, Fauna, Fish, Irish Sea, Marine, Monitoring, Open Coast, Pisces, Shark, Sublittoral
Abstract: This paper outlines the results of a basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) sighting scheme, established in 1993, which set out to determine the distribution and abundance of the shark in Irish waters. Seasonal occurrence, group size and length frequency, and incidental capture in fishing gear are also discussed. Incidental sightings of basking sharks around Ireland in 1993 were collated and the distribution and abundance determined. The greatest relative abundance occurred on the east coast of Ireland and on the south west coast (ICES sectors VIIa and VIIj). Sightings took place between April and Nvember, peaking in June and September. Most records were of single animals.