This study provides an insight into the species of Chondrichthyes (sharks, rays, and chimaeras) present in the Samoan archipelago, an overview of their conservation, and the dynamics surrounding their management and social, cultural, and economic importance. It highlights current knowledge gaps and provides a foundation for further research to better understand chondrichthyan biodiversity and conservation.

We recorded 23 Ranong guitarfish (Rhinobatos ranongensis) in Southwest Aceh, Indonesia. Measured specimens ranged between 72 and 87 cm total length. There are 20 recorded guitarfish species (Genus Rhinobatos) and so far, three of them have been recorded in Indonesia: Jimbaran shovelnose ray (Rhinobatos jimbaranensis), Indonesian shovelnose ray (Rhinobatos pengali) and Shaw’s shovelnose guitarfish (Rhinobatos thouiniana). Rhinobatos ranongensis is listed as Vulnerable by IUCN and found in the Eastern Indian Ocean. The only recorded samples are from Andaman Sea, Myanmar and western Thailand. The specimens that landed in Southwest Aceh is the first recorded in Indonesia and the largest ever recorded.

Reintroduction is a key strategy for re-establishing threatened species. Quenda (bandicoots, Isoodon fusciventer) were returned to the geographic and climatic margin of their former range after an absence of >40 years, persisting for more than 12 years despite drought and likely inter-and intra-specific competition for food resources. Minimising predation from foxes and feral cats was critical to the success.