The Zebra Shark (known as the Leopard Shark in Thailand) is one of the most beautiful sharks in the world. In Thailand, the Leopard Shark is observed mostly on the west coast of the country by divers and snorkelers who explore the beautiful and tropical reefs in the Andaman sea. This region is one of the last locations in Asia where you can observe Leopard Sharks in the wild.

Unfortunately observations of Leopard Sharks in Thailand by the dive community at Large, all agree has decreased by 90%. 10 Years ago on certain reefs you could almost guarantee an encounter with a Leopard Shark around the Similan Island National Park, Phuket, Phi Phi and surrounding islands. 

The IUCN has classified the Leopard Shark (Stegostoma fasciatum) as VULNERABLE

Population of Zebra sharks worldwide is DECREASING

Currently there is a conservation project active in Thailand called: Spot the Leopard Shark Thailand  Here divers can submit their photos and videos of Leopard Sharks to determine their population and observation counts. Other than this citizen science project, there is currently no plan of action to protect Leopard Sharks in Thailand.

We need to convince the various Government bodies of Thailand to protect the Leopard Shark in their country before it is too late. 

THERE IS SOME GOOD NEWS - GET INVOLVED!

Oceans For All Foundation with government agencies and Shark Guardian will be starting a project of breeding and release program for Leopard Sharks in Thailand. Juvenile Leopard sharks bred in aquariums will be transported and released on dive sites in Thailand to attempt to repopulate these areas where Leopard sharks have disappeared.