What are Research Angler trips? This is when a group of anglers get together to plan a trip to a lodge that is participating in the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust research program, and each also donates a small amount above the normal price to help pay for research expenses such as sample equipment.  The lodge then donates space to a BTT scientist to go on the trip to conduct research (projects described below).  The anglers can participate in the research or just focus on fishing, knowing that they are contributing to BTT research by participating in the trip.  All anglers become BTT members.  Also during the trip, the BTT scientist will give evening presentations on bonefish or tarpon biology and research. I am the attending scientist on some trips, other BTT-associated scientists also attend trips. The current list of trips is here.

Research Angler projects:

Bonefish Genetics
Once classified as a single species in the tropics, recent research has identified more than nine species of bonefishes worldwide. Until 2001, the shallow water populations of bonefish in the Caribbean  were assumed to be a single species, Albula vulpes. In 2001, genetics research identified a second bonefish species that also inhabits shallow water – Albula species B (sometimes called Albula garcia).  And in 2008 genetics research revealed another, as yet unnamed species of bonefish on the flats. So far, most bonefish caught by recreational anglers have been identified as Albula vulpes, but Albula species B and the newly identified species have also been caught on the flats.  In addition to identifying species, we can also use the genetic information to determine the extent that bonefish from different populations are related, which will be useful for regional management. How do we sample? First, we have to catch the fish. We prefer to ‘sample’ the bonefish population with fly rods or spinning rods.  Once the bonefish are caught, we cut small (1/4”) triangles of tissue from the dorsal fins, and use the tissue for genetic analysis. The fin tissue grows back in about a week.

Bonefish Growth Rates
We’re also working on how fast bonefish grow. Ongoing research indicates that bonefish in the Caribbean grow 2 to 3 times slower than bonefish in the Florida Keys. Age is determined by counting annular rings on the otoliths (or ear bones) from bonefish, much like reading the annual growth rings of trees.  Although we have to sacrifice bonefish to collect the otoliths, determining the age of bonefish is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to management and conservation.  We usually get our ‘volunteer’ bonefish for this research from those that are damaged during the fight by sharks, barracuda, or by other means.

Bonefish Tagging
We are using dart tags to tag bonefish so that we can determine their movements.  Over time, tag-recapture information will also help us estimate growth rates and population size.

Tarpon Tagging
We are using dart tags (larger versions of the bonefish tags) to tag tarpon. Knowing the location where the fish was tagged, and the location it was recaptured help us to determine their movements.  Over time, tagging data will also help us to estimate growth rates and population size.

Tarpon Satellite Tagging
Adult tarpon (> 80 pounds) can be tagged with satellite tags.  The tags record information such as water depth, temperature, light levels, salinity, and location.  This information helps us determine tarpon’s habitat needs and migratory patterns, which are important for effective management. The satellite tags are programmed to detach from the tarpon after a predetermined amount of time. Once they pop off, the tags relay their data to scientists’ computers via satellite.

Tarpon Genetics
Similar to the bonefish genetic research, tarpon tissue samples can be used to examine the extent that tarpon around the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic are related. Using DNA fingerprinting, tissue samples can also be used to identify individual tarpon – so a fish that is caught more than once can be identified.  This is a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute project for which BTT is providing assistance.