While interviewing charter boat captains and deckhands in Orange Beach, Alabama, I had the opportunity to join a fisheries biologist from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Marine Resources Division to learn fish population monitoring and tagging techniques!
Hannah tagging a Gray triggerfish (Balistes capriscus).
Why is fish tagging important? Fish tagging efforts conducted by state fish and wildlife agencies are crucial for several reasons:
Population Monitoring: Tagging helps track fish movement patterns, population sizes, and distribution. It aids in understanding migration routes, spawning grounds, and habitat preferences.
Conservation and Management: The data collected from tagging contributes to informed decisions regarding fishing regulations, habitat conservation, and species management. It helps set sustainable catch limits and protect endangered species.
Public Awareness: Tagging programs engage communities, fostering public interest and participation in conservation efforts.
While tagging, we also took important fish measurements and documented wildlife interactions with anglers.
This was an incredible day on the water, and I am thankful to have gained hands-on experience with this vital tool in the conservation and management of aquatic ecosystems, offering valuable information that aids in preserving biodiversity and sustaining fisheries for future generations.
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