Peruvian Chondrichthyes biodiversity, marketing and conservation: a synthesis of current knowledge

Peru hosts a diverse chondrichthyan fauna due to its unique oceanographic conditions, including the convergence of the Humboldt Current and the South Equatorial Current. Despite historical research on Peruvian chondrichthyans, taxonomic updates and conservation concerns warrant a revised checklist. This study provides an updated and systematic compilation of chimaeras, sharks and rays recorded in Peruvian waters, including marine and freshwater species. A total of 110 species were confirmed, comprising seven chimaeras, 56 sharks and 47 rays, categorised into 67 genera, 40 families and 13 orders. Several species previously listed for Peru were excluded due to unreliable records or taxonomic revisions. Additionally, we assess the commercial exploitation and conservation status of chondrichthyans, identifying species subject to national regulations and international trade under CITES. Our findings provide a comprehensive update on Peruvian chondrichthyan biodiversity, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring, taxonomic validation and conservation strategies to ensure their sustainable management.