On-going Studies
SDRP’s conservation research continues year round.
For some projects like the dolphin survey, trips usually occur at least 10 times each month.
Other research has defined field seasons. The work may be on-going daily for a few weeks or months at a time, before a scheduled suspension.
Results will help conservation managers develop sound resource management policies.
The study of juvenile dolphin behavior is one of these projects. Conducted as dissertation research by now-Dr. Katherine McHugh, new research questions have been formulated and the work continues.
Studies of dolphin prey fish are also ongoing, and new studies have included the use of stable isotopes to study foraging behavior.
Data from this kind of research are crucial to understanding dolphin habitat utilization. The results will help conservation managers develop sound resource management policies.
All photos © Sarasota Dolphin Research Program under NMFS permit #522-1785
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