Research Programs
 |
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission staff on board
a manatee research boat purchased by Save the Manatee Club.
(Photo courtesy of FWCC)
|
Save the Manatee Club has provided funds for equipment used in manatee research such
as computers, cameras, diving gear, canoes, two-way radios, sanctuary buoys and radar
equipment.
The Club has also assisted state and federal governments with research
projects such as aerial surveys, seagrass studies, telemetry studies, manatee photo
identification projects, population modeling and the compilation of over two decades of
research data on the Blue Spring manatee population in Florida.
Highlights of SMC-Sponsored Research Projects:
Photo-identification studies of manatees on the
southeast and southwest coasts of Florida. Long-term studies of individuals contribute to
an understanding of species' behavior, movements and life history.
A study of manatee use patterns at Brevard County,
Florida, power plants. This study helped to establish seasonal "no entry" zones
around warm water refuges at the power plants so manatees would not be harassed. Aerial surveys of manatees in Tampa Bay and the
Florida Keys. These studies will help to implement management plans for manatee
protection.
Reseach to analyze lipids in manatee facial bones
to help understand how manatees hear directionally.
A study of manatee immune system and genetics.
This research is useful in the treatment of sick or injured manatees.
A research study on manatee reproductive hormones.
This will add to the body of work that will help provide an accurate population model for
manatees.
Preliminary funding of a study of manatee bone
density. This study will aid in understanding the nature of injuries inflicted on manatees
in watercraft collisions.
The Club has also funded physiological studies and has provided funds
for a manatee tagging program in southern Georgia. In addition, the Club coordinates a
volunteer manatee sighting network.
Return to About SMC
| |
