Stingray and Shark Tagging Analysis in Promotion of Population and Ecosystem Conservation: Alabama, Florida 2015-2018 Project Report

Abstract

Stingrays and sharks are linchpin species that help maintain the function and stabilization of local bay systems. A three-year tagging project was designed and implemented in an effort to gather migration and habitat data of target species. Seventy-two specimens were tagged using labeled, plastic anchor tags placed in the medial pectoral radials for rays and adjacent the dorsal fin for sharks. To date, tagged stingrays have a 0% return, sharks have a 12.5% return. Continued research is needed for a more complete understanding of their population dynamics in the promotion of on-going conservation efforts.