Shark biologist Dr. Greg Skomal gave a keynote lecture at KAUST's Enrichment in the Fall 2018, discussing how little is known about sharks. Skomal highlighted that 49% of shark species are data deficient in basic information. He also discussed using acoustic tags and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) like the REMUS SharkCam to study shark behavior. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in hosting discussions on marine biology and the application of advanced technology in ecological research.
An international team including KAUST researchers tracked nearly 2,000 sharks using satellite tags to map their movement and space use. The study found that 24% of shark habitats overlap with pelagic longline fisheries, with higher overlap for commercially exploited species. For North Atlantic blue and shortfin mako sharks, the overlap was 76% and 62% respectively. Why it matters: This research highlights the vulnerability of sharks to industrial fishing and underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts in critical habitats.
A global census, with KAUST participation, assessed reef shark populations using Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS). The study found reef shark populations thrive where there are marine conservation policies and fishing regulations. However, they are scarce in areas with overfishing and poor resource protections, with sharks absent on nearly 20% of surveyed reefs. Why it matters: The research highlights the importance of conservation management for reef sharks, key apex predators and indicators of reef health, especially in the Red Sea region.
KAUST doctoral student Royale Hardenstine is conducting whale shark research in the Red Sea. The research is captured in a video produced by KAUST. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's ongoing research efforts in marine biology and Red Sea ecosystems.
Researchers from KAUST and Beneath The Waves used camera tags on tiger sharks in the Bahamas to map the world's largest seagrass ecosystem, estimated at 92,000 km2. The study, published in Nature Communications, details how the sharks' movements helped validate spatial estimates of these blue carbon ecosystems. Carlos Duarte (KAUST) realized the potential of the shark movement data to map the extensive seagrass meadows in the shallow sand banks of the Bahamas. Why it matters: The innovative approach demonstrates a novel method for mapping and quantifying vast underwater ecosystems, crucial for understanding and conserving blue carbon sinks.
KAUST marine scientists, led by Dr. Michael Berumen, tracked 47 whale sharks near Al-Lith in the Red Sea using satellite tags. The study, published in PLOS ONE, identifies the area as a significant nursery for the species. The research provides valuable insights into the movement patterns of whale sharks. Why it matters: Understanding these patterns is crucial for effective conservation efforts for this vulnerable species in the Red Sea.
KAUST researchers, in collaboration with WHOI, studied whale shark movement patterns near the Shib Habil reef in the Red Sea over six years using visual census, acoustic monitoring, and satellite telemetry. The study monitored 84 sharks and found the aggregation to be highly seasonal, with sharks most abundant in April and May, returning yearly. The site may serve as a nursery for the wider Indian Ocean population, attracting juvenile females, which is unique to Shib Habil. Why it matters: Understanding whale shark behavior and critical habitats like Shib Habil is vital for future conservation efforts of this endangered species in the Red Sea and the broader Indian Ocean.
KAUST is hosting the Marine Megafauna Movement Workshop (October 19-20) featuring international speakers showcasing research on marine animal behavior using sensors and analytics. Enrichment in the Fall 2015 (October 16-24) at KAUST will focus on marine animal movement with lectures, trips, movies, and music. KAUST aims to merge research on marine animal movement with the study of human mobility to gain new insights. Why it matters: This interdisciplinary approach could advance understanding of both marine ecosystems and human behavior, while promoting marine conservation efforts in the Red Sea.