Tiger Shark Tagging
In recent years, diving and photographing tiger sharks in places like the Bahamas have provided amazing shots and a boost to ecotourism. However, a new tagging study by researchers at the University of Miami might show that these practices have a harmful effect on populations.
Scientists attached satellite tags to the fins of tigers at the well-known “Tiger Beach” to see how they are affected by tourists.
“It takes tremendous co-ordination among our team to maintain the safety and well-being of man and shark,” said Dr. Neil Hammerschlag, one of the ecologists in the project. The most important thing is to get the shark tagged away happy and healthy.”
Researchers who thought chumming would limit the sharks’ movements were surprised to find that the Bahamas subjects had a range of more than five times that of Florida sharks. Make sure to check out a slideshow of images and facts about the project on the BBC Nature website.
