Shark scientists use cool tools and techniques to learn all about sharks - where they go, what they eat, how big they grow, and even if they’re going to have babies!
SCIENTIFIC WORKUP
A scientific work-up is the process of collecting essential data from the shark to learn more about its biology and health. This includes measuring the shark (total length, pre-caudal length, fork length, and girth), taking tissue or fin clip samples, checking for parasites, determining the sex, and attaching a tag for tracking. All of this is done quickly and carefully to ensure the shark’s safety before it is released back into the ocean.
GENETICS
During a scientific work-up, scientists often take a small clipping of tissue from the shark. This is usually taken from the trailing edge of the dorsal fin. This tissue is sent off to a lab where a geneticist (a scientist who studies genes and DNA) will analyze it. DNA is kind of like a shark's fingerprint. This helps us learn about shark populations and family relationships.
TAGGING & TRACKING
Tags are a way to give each shark a unique ID or “name tag.” They allow scientists to identify individuals and then learn from them. Tracking can include using satellite technology to see where the shark goes or how deep it dives. If the shark is caught again, scientists can see if the shark has grown or moved to a new location. Tagging and tracking can help scientists understand growth rates, habitat-use, migration patterns, and more.
Click here to dive into our SHARK TAGGING page and learn more about specific tags.
ULTRASOUND
Scientists use underwater ultrasound to learn if a shark is pregnant and how her pups are developing. This tool works just like the ones doctors use for humans, but it's specially designed for use in the ocean. By gently placing the ultrasound on the shark’s belly, researchers can see inside without hurting the animal. This non-invasive method helps scientists better understand shark reproduction and gives us important clues about when and where sharks give birth - key information for protecting future generations of sharks!
​
Click here to dive into our SHARK REPRODUCTION page and watch a couple shark ultrasound videos!
BRUVS
(Bait Remote Underwater Video Systems)
BRUVS are underwater cameras with a small bait canister in front of them. They record sharks (and other animals) that swim by, allowing scientists to study various species, behavior, and abundance without catching anything.
PHOTO & VIDEO
Photos and videos can be used in a wide range of ways to study sharks. Photo ID can help tell individuals in a population apart. Video can capture specific behaviors that scientists can use to better understand a species. Video recently helped scientists record clicking sounds being made by a rig shark. Photos and videos are also important to help scientists teach others about sharks.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
JOIN THE SHIVER!
SHIVER: Collective noun for a group of sharks.
​
Stay in the loop and receive FINtastic updates straight to your inbox. Newsletter subscribers get access to exclusive downloads! Thanks for supporting Sharks4Kids!