Redfish tracking project helps researchers, educates anglers
Redfish are one of the state’s most popular saltwater game fish, and the Charlotte County Extension Service is helping researchers and anglers learn more about their lives.
Sea Grant Extension Agent Betty Staugler coordinated an effort to tag redfish caught at the WaterLIFE Kids Cup tournament April 28, so their movements could be tracked. Sixty-six redfish were caught, each was fitted with an external tag before being released. Anglers who catch these fish in the future can report their whereabouts, using an address printed on the tags.
In addition, scientists from Mote Marine Laboratory and Progress Energy surgically implanted sonic tags in 20 of the redfish. The tags transmit sounds that can be detected by underwater sensors set up by Mote and Sea Grant in Charlotte Harbor. Researchers hope to learn more about redfish movements and habits from the work.
Information on the tagged fish is posted on a Web site devoted to the project. The participating anglers, ages 10-16, can check the site for updates on their fish, and the general public is invited to drop by as well.
Click here to view the project Web site
Click here to visit the Florida Sea Grant home page
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