What is MATOS?

The Mid-Atlantic Acoustic Telemetry Observation System (MATOS) is a web-based tool and database for researchers and natural resource professionals to manage acoustic telemetry data in a searchable, secure database. MATOS allows telemetry researchers to store and share data on acoustic receiver deployments, tag detections, and tag deployments with individuals of their choosing. MATOS users who have uploaded tag deployment data can search the MATOS receiver database to find out where their tags have been detected. The system’s mapping capabilities allows users to visualize animal movement.

MATOS has been designed to be compatible with the Ocean Tracking Network (OTN), a global monitoring network that deploys acoustic receivers and oceanographic monitoring equipment in all of the world’s five oceans. This global receiver infrastructure comprehensively examines the local-to-global movements of tagged marine animals such as sharks, sturgeon, eels, and tuna, as well as other marine species including squid, sea turtles, and marine mammals. OTN is headquartered at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

The MATOS system was developed as a joint effort among the Mid Atlantic Regional Association Coastal Ocean Observing System (MARACOOS), NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office, and the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) Animal Telemetry Network (ATN). Supporting partners include the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. MATOS is administered by Applied Science Associates (ASA).

Questions? Contact , Kimberly Richie, richiek@si.edu