The Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF) was created in 2009 to research, protect and conserve threatened marine megafauna. 'Megafauna' are large marine species such as sharks, rays, marine mammals and turtles. These animals are key components of marine ecosystems but, as they are long-lived and have low reproductive rates, their populations are usually the first to be reduced by human pressures. Fortunately, they are also amongst the most charismatic animals on the planet and engender a high degree of public interest in their biology and conservation, making them useful ambassadors for the whole marine environment. The organisation works with sponsors, international scientific collaborators, the marine tourism industry, conservation organisations and government bodies to identify and solve the problems that threaten marine megafauna worldwide.