Belize: Turneffe Atoll Sharks

Shark Research

Sharks have existed for hundreds of millions of years, yet over the past century their numbers have declined sharply in the face of escalating fishing pressure and habitat destruction. In Belize shark fishing is increasing and the conservation of shark populations is at a critical juncture.

The Oceanic Society is working with Dr. Demian Chapman, an internationally recognized shark expert, to monitor shark population trends at Turneffe Atoll. The research program aims to determine what impact shark fishing is having on shark populations at Turneffe atoll, as well as to use cutting edge technology to better understand shark movement patterns, breeding habits and ecological impacts.

Volunteers on this project will assist the researcher to survey the abundance of sharks around the reefs and seagrass flats of Turneffe Atoll. Data from this project will be compared with data collected in the same areas in 2005 and 2007 in order to determine and how conservation and management interventions should be designed and implemented.

Volunteers will assist the researcher with deploying an underwater camera and bait box to the bottom sand in shallow water. The unit is left filming for about 1-2 hours on the reef and then recovered. It is then possible to view the video at the Field Station to count shark abundance, as well as other carnivorous fish.

Sharks will be captured in these areas using research longlines, set in the morning and evening for standard three-hour periods. Captured sharks will be brought alongside the small research vessel, measured, sexed, tagged and released alive. Small tissue samples will be taken for chemical analysis of diet and for genetic analysis of migration and breeding patterns. Finally, a subset of sharks will be fitted with satellite or acoustic tracking devices so we can assess their movement patterns.

Volunteers will have lectures on shark biology, with some free time to swim, snorkel, and explore the nature trails and beaches. Volunteers will be trained in sampling techniques.

The program is best suited for active individuals. Headquarters for this project are at the Oceanic Society Field Station. Accommodations are in beachfront cabanas offering double occupancy rooms with private baths.

Itinerary:

Day 1:
Belize City/Blackbird Caye.

Day 2:

Methods training and afternoon equipment deployment.

Day 3 thru 7:

Morning and afternoon video deployment and data transcription. Snorkeling opportunities.

Day 8:

Blackbird Caye/Belize City.

Click for large Interactive Map

Researcher: Demian Chapman

2009 Dates:

June 20-27

2009 Cost:

$1,950

Maximum group size: 6

Detailed Trip Information

Information & Reservations

Please fill out an APPLICATION to sign-up for the BELIZE SHARKS expedition.

Send E-mail regarding this specific trip:Belize Sharks