Dr. Matthew Ajemian (Florida Atlantic University) and Kim Bassos-Hull (Mote Marine Laboratory) will discuss their whitespotted eagle ray research. 

BBC MSB-105 with polycom to MMC WC-130 

3-4pm

Abstract:

The whitespotted eagle ray is an iconic and globally revered species that has fascinated naturalists and researchers for some time. Despite this, the ecology of the whitespotted eagle ray is poorly understood throughout much of its range, which drastically influences the development of conservation measures for this near-threatened species currently experiencing declines throughout parts of the Greater Caribbean. In this presentation we highlight past and current research involving the whitespotted eagle ray from Florida to Bermuda and beyond.  Research topics include movement and migratory behavior, impacts of harmful algal blooms, diet and foraging ecology, and capacity-building to foster conservation in areas where the species is targeted by artisanal fisheries.