In today’s world, sharks are a key species in the ecosystem and must be closely monitored to make sure that their numbers remain stable and healthy. It is understandable that not all methods are universal for all species, but with experienced handlers, they can determine the safest and most effective action to tag the captured shark. Despite the differences, some fundamental procedures must be done to ensure the survival of the animal, as well as obtaining the correct data information.
1. PLAN IN ADVANCE- When tagging a shark, the teams efforts requires an adequate amount of practice. This also includes knowing roles of each individual such as catching, tagging and releasing the animal, and who else will be recording the data.
2. SAFETY IS KEY!!!- When tagging a shark it is important to remember that : a) keep the shark in the water as much as possible. b) avoiding excessive handling of the animal. c) use dehookers or cut the leaders if necessary.
3. LOOK FOR EXISTING TAGS- While measuring the shark (fork length), record the existing tag number if needed and be sure to call in by using the recapture details that are located on the tag.
4. TAG KNOWN SPECIES OF SHARKS- In some cases, species of sharks can be hard to tell apart and it is highly important to tag correctly. To make sure species are correct, be sure that an experience person(s) is with you, or that you are well aware of common species that are in the area that are at risk of being captured.
5. CAREFULLY ATTACH NEW TAGS- It is not uncommon to place the tags improperly due to being anxious around the shark. Once it is restrained, wait until the shark calms down before attempting to tag.
3. LOOK FOR EXISTING TAGS- While measuring the shark (fork length), record the existing tag number if needed and be sure to call in by using the recapture details that are located on the tag.
4. TAG KNOWN SPECIES OF SHARKS- In some cases, species of sharks can be hard to tell apart and it is highly important to tag correctly. To make sure species are correct, be sure that an experience person(s) is with you, or that you are well aware of common species that are in the area that are at risk of being captured.
5. CAREFULLY ATTACH NEW TAGS- It is not uncommon to place the tags improperly due to being anxious around the shark. Once it is restrained, wait until the shark calms down before attempting to tag.
6. RECORD TAG INFORMATION QUICKLY AND COMPLETELY- It is important to accurately record the tag information as well as in a timely manner since the shark must be released in a short period of time.
When tagging sharks it is important to follow all rules and regulations as well as tagging properly to ensure a safe release of the shark so it can be tracked and hopefully recaptured to measure the differences over time to observe how species age and how population sizes are altering due to mainly harmful anthropogenic activities.
#sharksRfriends #NOAA #boatsNsharks #nobait
Shark tagging was such a great experience that not many people get to do. You had a great list of things to remember while tagging the sharks.
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