Now we have to worry about the decline in Australia's whale shark numbers

A leading environmental group is calling on the Australian government to negotiate with its Asian neighbours to help stem the decline in whale shark numbers.

Marine scientists are concerned about a decline in the number of whale sharks visiting the Ningaloo Reef off the north west coast of Australia.

They believe the problem is partly due to some Asian countries hunting whale sharks for meat.

Paul Gamblin, from the World Wide Fund for Nature, says governments need to act to protect these creatures.

"The Australian government could raise this issue at the international level, particularly with our Asian neighbours, to talk about how to reduce the take of whale sharks," he said.

"The State government can increase protection of coral reefs, particularly up through the Kimberley where protection is very low at this stage, and we need to protect their habitat so these creatures have a chance."

From ABC Radio:

http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/news/stories/s1933897.htm

Contributed by Tim Hochgrebe added 2007-05-26