Mote's Center for Shark Research is concerned about the conservation status of sharks, skates and rays in the wild. In addition to its work gathering information about the abundance and distribution of large coastal shark species, Mote researchers are also involved in several conservation efforts. Among them:

• Shark-Free Marina Initiative. This group's goal is to reduce shark mortality worldwide.
• The Guy Harvey Ultimate Shark Challenge. This catch-tag-and-release tournament format is designed as a new, exciting and compelling event to replace traditional catch-and-kill shark tournaments.
• The Elasmobranch Husbandry Initiative. This initiative is coordinated and supported by scientists, conservation biologists, educators and practitioners concerned about the conservation and ethical care of sharks, skates, rays and chimeras. The group's efforts include "The Elasmobranch Husbandry Manual,"  a single-reference guide to the captive care of elasmobranchs that is intended to assist in the development of new exhibits, aid the training of husbandry personnel, and answer specific questions about this important taxonomic group.