Scientiometric analysis of the capture of elasmobranchs as bycatch off the Amazon coast

Fisheries impact aquatic resources, with many species taken as bycatch, and thus represent a global threat to many species, in prticular, the elasmobranchs. Given the lack of reliable bycatch data, this study conducted a systematic review in four scientific databases to identify publications addressing elasmobranch bycatch along the Amazon coast. Between 2002 and 2022, 27 studies were published, docummenting the bycatch 28 sharks and 14 rays species. The literature search revealed an increase in the frequency of publication after 2015, with Brazil dominating the research output, while neighboring countries contributed limited data. Most studies involved trawling, while gillnet and longline fisheries were poorly represented. Worldwide, 78.0% of sharks and 57.0% of rays are classified as threatened. The review reveals persistent problems, including deficiencies in the identification, delays in data publication, and weak monitoring and enforcement. These findings emphasize the urgent need for improved research coverage, monitoring, and conservations actions.