Sponsor:
MOTE Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Due Date: Letter of Intent:
February 16, 2018
Due Date: Full Proposal:
September 1, 2018
The Manatee Research Program studies several aspects of the biology of manatees inhabiting the waters of Southwest Florida, including population dynamics, population genetics, habitat use, distributional patterns and social behavior. Field data and samples are collected using photo-identification, aerial surveys and non-invasive genetic sampling. From spring through early fall, photo-identification, genetic, and behavioral sampling are conducted primarily in Sarasota and Manatee counties. During the winter, field work is conducted primarily in Charlotte Harbor and Ft. Myers area. Aerial surveys are conducted twice per month in Sarasota County to assess relative...