MATOS - Mid-Atlantic Acoustic Telemetry Observation System

Project Title: The Short- and Long-Term Migratory Patterns of Neonate Shortfin Mako Sharks (Isurus oxyrinchus) in the Western North Atlantic with Implications for a Localized Nursery Area

MATOS Project Code: MONTAUK11

Data Type: Data

Project Duration: July 2019 - October 2024

Project Description: The shortfin mako shark is an apex predator that has a global distribution in temperate and tropical seas. This highly migratory species has low fecundity, producing an average of 4-25 pups per litter, slow growth, and late sexual maturity. Due to its low rebound potential and current estimated stock status, this species is listed as endangered according to the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) Red List. Although a recent moratorium has been instituted for 2022 and 2023 within the North Atlantic, this species is still targeted and captured as bycatch in various recreational and commercial fisheries in regions where the species remains unprotected. Recently, we identified an inshore site within the waters of Montauk, NY that has a high density of YOY shortfin mako sharks. We aim to acoustically and satellite tag these YOY sharks to identify various ecological and biological characteristics of this endangered species.

Objectives:

Determine extent of overlap of other shark species (e.g. white sharks) utilizing the location
Assess the localized and regional movements w/in the NW Atlantic and how they may change w/ ontogeny
Determine the extent of seasonality of this location
Determine shortfin mako shark site fidelity at location

Principal Investigator:	Dr. Craig O'Connell (O'Seas Conservation Foundation, Inc.)
Email:	oseasfdn@gmail.com

Point of Contact:	Dr. Craig O'Connell
Email:	oseasfdn@gmail.com

OSEAS - Seasonal Shortfin Mako Shark Nursery