You can help study sharks!


How it works

The Wildbook for Sharks photo-identification library is a visual database of various shark encounters and of individually catalogued sharks. The library is maintained and used by marine biologists to collect and analyze shark sighting data to learn more about these amazing creatures.The Wildbook uses photographs of the skin patterning behind the gills of each shark, and any scars, to distinguish between individual animals. Cutting-edge software supports rapid identification using pattern recognition and photo management tools. You too can assist with shark research, by submitting photos and sighting data. The information you submit will be used in mark-recapture studies to help with the global conservation of these threatened species.

The Wildbook uses photographs of the skin patterning behind the gills of each shark, and any scars, to distinguish between individual animals. Cutting-edge software supports rapid identification using pattern recognition and photo management tools. You too can assist with shark research, by submitting photos and sighting data. The information you submit will be used in mark-recapture studies to help with the global conservation of this threatened species.

22524 identified sharks

116353 reported sightings

10582 citizen scientists

392 researchers and volunteers


Why we do this

“Sharkbook, previously Wildbook for Whale Sharks, has pioneered the way for a new generation of global scale, collaborative wildlife projects that blend citizen science and computer vision to help researchers get bigger and more detailed pictures of some of the world's most mysterious species.” - Jason Holmberg, Information Architect

Learn more about the Researchers and Volunteers
Learn more about Wild Me and Wildbook

How can I help?

If you are not on site, there are still other ways to get engaged

Development

Sharkbook is maintained and developed by the nonprofit organization Wild Me with significant support and input from the research community. This site is a flagship project of Wild Me's Wildbook and WBIA open source projects. Dr. Simon Pierce provides scientific oversight and guidance.