BONEFISH AND TARPON TRUST
Janurary 2016 - Current
Coordinating and implementing a tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) acoustic telemetry project throughout the Florida Keys. These data on Atlantic tarpon movement patterns and habitat use will be used to improve conservation efforts. Through this project, we aim to uncover the connectivity between various regions of the western Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico; if tarpon use the same spawning sites each year; if changes to freshwater flows into coastal areas including the Florida Everglades, Apalachicola, St. Lucie River, Caloosahatchee River, and Indian River Lagoon influence tarpon movements; and determine the movement patterns and habitat use of tarpon. This information is essential to protect the future of the fishery. Learn more about the project and how you can get involved by helping us tag fish or sponsoring a tag here.
Collaboration / assistance with additional research projects based in Florida Keys: acting contributor with acoustic telemetry study on permit, epigenetics and virus study to examine the potential impact of urban development on bonefish health. Collaborative efforts and stakeholder engagement with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, individual guide outfitters, and local fishing tournaments.
