Sharks play a key role in coral reef ecosystems, but Caribbean populations are concerningly low. When monitoring endangered species, it is critical to use minimally invasive tools and protocols that are adequate for local species and the environment. This study investigated the adequate deployment time of baited remote underwater videos (BRUVs) for shark studies in the Cayman Islands and whether the use of photo-identification to recognise individuals (MaxIND) on BRUVs could improve abundance estimates (in comparison to MaxN) and the analysis of shark behaviour.
The results provide key information to improve the localised monitoring of rare/endangered species and can inform conservation management.

Partners: Cayman Islands Department of Environment, Heriot-Watt University, Marine Conservation International

Funding: Cayman Islands Brewery through White Tip Lager
This study was funded by the UK DEFRA through Darwin Plus (DPLUS036).

Language: English

Audience: Everyone

Get your copy: https://www.mdpi.com/2673-1924/6/4/70