Changing Seas

Tracking Tigers

Sharks are beleaguered species. The oceans' most formidable apex predators are overfished worldwide for their fins, which are considered a delicacy in many Asian countries. Shark populations have declined by up to 90 percent in some cases. But much is still unknown about the animals. Tiger sharks in particular display behaviors that are not well understood. Known to travel long distances, these fish have a broad diet and spend time in shallow, near-shore habitats as well as the depths of the open ocean. Scientists use satellite tags and DNA forensic tools to better understand their migration patterns. Such information is crucial for resource managers to make more informed fisheries management decisions in the future.