Dive into Marine Conservation
Saltwater Life is passionate about the study, conservation, and protection of sharks, skates, and rays - the elasmobranch species that play a crucial role in ocean ecosystems. Based in Scotland, UK, Saltwater Life conducts marine research while advocating for sustainable conservation efforts.
Discover the Science
Founded by Dr. Lauren Smith, a specialist in elasmobranch research, Saltwater Life combines scientific study, underwater exploration, and public engagement to drive real change. By working with policymakers, educators, and marine enthusiasts, she helps bridge the gap between research and conservation action.
Defend Our Oceans
The mission: to Dive, Discover, Defend. Through research, advocacy, and awareness, Saltwater Life strives to protect marine biodiversity and ensure a thriving future for our oceans. Explore Lauren's work, get involved, and be part of the movement to safeguard our seas.
About Saltwater Life
Explore the complexity, diversity, and vastness of the ocean with Saltwater Life, where adventure, conservation and education come together.
The Research
“Elasmobranchs: one of two subclasses of fish that have cartilaginous skeletons, they include the sharks, skates and rays
(the other subclass is the Holocephali, the chimaeras)”
Elasmobranchs, primarily Shark and Skate species are the focus of Saltwater Life’s founder, Dr Lauren Smith, who is committed to undertaking and communicating the latest scientific research on these incredible animals.
Understanding them, their physiology, behaviour, and habitats, informs government policies resulting in effective legislation vital to the conservation and management of these species.
Saltwater Life combines the practical aspects of diving and underwater photography with scientific research, collaboration, and communication to adhere to its mission to Dive, Discover and Defend elasmobranchs worldwide.
Shark Diary
Meeting Sharks is one of the most exciting and humbling experiences of a lifetime. Here are some of my favourite encounters.
Shark Encounters
Locations on the planet of Lauren’s own encounters with sharks.
Blog
Guardian Blogs
At the start of 2016 I began writing online blogs for The Guardian. My thanks goes out to the science editor for allowing me access to this platform which has enabled
The Real Sharknado
For my fourth blog instalment with The Guardian I have discussed some of the research I undertook as part of my PhD whilst reflecting on the latest shark pop culture: “The
Shark Conservation in the UK
This is my third blog for The Guardian, this time I am looking at Shark Conservation within the UK following on from the success of Fin Fighters organisation and the first
A Dangerous Delicacy
Here is my second blog piece for The Guardian, this time I am discussing Shark Fin Soup following a trip to Hong Kong which coincided with the Chinese New Year: “Shark
In Search of a Plankton Feeder
The Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus) can reach lengths of up to 12m and is the largest shark in British waters and the second largest in the world after the Whale Shark.
Hammer-time!
What does Hannibal Lecter, Ernest Hemmingway and I have in common? A taste for fava beans and a nice Chianti? (Chianti – yes), renowned literary skill? (pah! If only!). The answer
Sea Shepherd UK; Seals & Salmon Fisheries
Today I headed to Gardenstown & Crovie on the Banffshire coastline in the hop of having a chat with the Sea Shepherd crew who have based themselves their in order to
School Outreach; Shark Program
An interactive shark program is now available for children of primary school age, from P2 through to P7 (ages 5-11). This specially designed outreach program enables pupils to understand basic shark
“Hope”
On the 4th of February 2014, at around 11:30 am I was at work at the Macduff Marine Aquarium, as I cleaned the ‘nursery’ tank (a display set up to house
The Ultimate Shark Conservation Experience!
The Ultimate Shark Conservation Experience! -Sign up for the trip of a lifetime with Saltwater Life & Basking Shark Scotland Summer 2014. – Learn about Shark Biology, Physiology, Ecology & Conservation
Gill Envy; Subsurface Trip Report – Tenerife, October 2013.
Hit the following dive sites over 2 days; El Puertito, Abades Micro Marine Reserve, San Miguel Ray’s and Poris. On the Underwater Camera Hunt for Green Turtles & Stingrays, all of
The Conservation Status of the Blue Shark
Over 8 years ago I wrote an essay on the conservation status of the Blue Shark (Prionace glauca), the essay formed part of my BIOL3301 module, which contributed to my final
Associates & Affiliates
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BSAC (British Subaqua Club)
Seasearch
East Grampian Coastal Partnership
