| 15 May 2008
Opportunity for Charlotte Harbor Anglers
A scanning device captures information from a PIT-tagged juvenile Snook
A Habitat and Fish movement Research Project being conducted by Dr. Aaron Adams uses sonic transmitters and PIT (passive integrated transponder) tags to track movements, survival, emigration, and population sizes of juvenile snook in four mangrove creeks of varying health.
When fish leave the creeks, we need anglers equipped with PIT tag detectors to identify these fish when they catch them. By scanning the fish and adding their data to the study, we can eventually learn which habitats are most likely to produce adult fish, which conditions are conducive to species survival.
We need anglers who catch a lot of snook on a regular basis to be equipped with these devices. Right now, anglers who frequent Charlotte Harbor, Cayo Costa, Boca Grande, and related areas can be most helpful.
You or Your Group Can Be Involved
You can be directly involved in one of 2 ways:- raising the funds to buy tag detection devices;
- actually
using the devices on a regular basis to supply data. The data recovered
will be compiled by a team and passed on to the project leader. With a
little help, we intend to expand the boundaries of this project as soon
as possible.
Unlike many research projects, this one actually enlists the help of anglers to increase data recovery. Each PIT tag detection device allows those who target snook in the areas under study to add to scientific knowledge and understanding of what constitutes successful nursery habitat. Currently only a couple of guides are involved, and the project is working to a very limited extent. It is important to expand the program before it is too late to learn which habitats are critical to save.
To get the most benefit from this, we really need to increase the amount of data. Anglers can help build this data by getting involved.
The ideal PIT tag detection wand costs $450. This device has the capability to store data internally so the angler would only have to swipe it by the fish (like airport security USED to do), and the info can be uploaded at a later date. Other wands that can be used, priced from $210, require the angler to write the PIT-tag number in a log book.
Most important, we need active anglers involved. The more anglers we can equip, the better the chance of finding recaptures. Presently this project is limited to Charlotte Harbor but expect it to expand once the public understands how important this information will be to the protection of our fishery.
