Yorkshire Aquariums to Host Shark Awareness Week from 6th to 13th July 2026

This week, from 6th to 13th July 2026, UK aquariums are joining forces for a special event known as BIAZA Shark Awareness Week. This initiative, led by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), aims to raise awareness about sharks and rays, and it includes an exciting competition to find the fan-favourite aquarium shark or ray. The Deep, located in Hull, is one of the aquariums participating in this campaign, which focuses on both education and conservation.

Shark Awareness Week Details

During Shark Awareness Week, aquariums across the UK are not just promoting shark advocacy but also engaging the public in a fun way. A bracket-style voting system, similar to the FIFA World Cup, allows visitors to choose their favourite sharks or rays from a list of eight nominees. Each day, new rounds will take place, providing fans with a chance to support their favourite marine creatures.

• Event Duration: 6th - 13th July 2026

• Voting Method: Bracket-style votes

• Nominees: Eight different sharks and rays

Sharks and rays, known collectively as elasmobranchs, are not just fascinating creatures; they also play a critical role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. However, it is alarming to note that over a quarter of all shark and ray species are currently facing extinction. The slow growth and maturation of these species mean that their decline can lead to severe consequences for ocean health.

Why Sharks Matter

Sharks have inhabited the Earth for more than 400 million years, even longer than trees.

They are essential for maintaining healthy ocean environments. Dr Jo Judge, CEO of BIAZA, emphasises the importance of understanding these creatures better:

“As well as factors such as overfishing and climate change, the future of sharks is also threatened by misinformation and poor understanding.”

This highlights the need for education and awareness about sharks, which many people may fear or misunderstand.

Through their educational programmes, BIAZA aquariums strive to demystify sharks and inspire awe in visitors. The goal is to help people understand how their actions can impact the future of these remarkable animals. Many species, like the flapper skate and the green sawfish, are critically endangered due to human activities. This is why the work done by aquariums is so vital.

Conservation Efforts

In addition to advocacy and education, BIAZA aquariums engage in important conservation research. They are developing best practices for non-invasive veterinary treatments and exploring innovative methods like DNA-swabbing. These efforts aim to improve the understanding and care of sharks and rays, ensuring their survival for future generations.

Dr Rob Bullock, Head of Conservation at The Deep, reinforces the need for conservation:

“BIAZA aquariums have an important role to play in advocating for a brighter future for sharks and their relatives.”

The green sawfish, one of the most extraordinary creatures in the ocean, is highlighted as a species worth saving. It serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and the majesty of marine life.

How to Get Involved

Anyone interested in supporting shark conservation can participate in the voting process during Shark Awareness Week. By casting a vote for their favourite shark or ray, individuals can contribute to raising awareness about these incredible creatures. The voting will take place daily until 12th July, and more information can be found on the BIAZA website.

For those who wish to learn more about the significance of sharks and rays, visiting local aquariums like The Deep can provide valuable insights. These facilities offer not only a chance to see these magnificent animals up close but also educational resources that explain their importance in the ecosystem and the threats they face.