Research Objectives

The Galapagos Whale Shark Project is trying to uncover some of the main mysteries of whale sharks.

Why do we see mainly adult females in Galapagos?
What is the habitat use of the Galapagos constellations? 
What are whale shark movements and what connectivity is their in the region? 
Which are the greatest threats to whale sharks in the region? How can we mitigate these threats?
Which are the ocean areas we most need to protect next?
How do whale sharks navigate?
How deep do whale sharks dive? And why do they dive so deep?
How are the constellations of mainland and insular Galapagos connected?
How frequently do we see the same individuals?

How do we work?

Using a variety of techniques, we gather data that allows us to understand key facts about whale sharks. Specifically which areas or environments are key to their survival.

Satellite Tags - Allow us to follow individuals as they move both on a horizontal and vertical plane.

Photo Identification - The spotted pattern of each shark is unique, like a fingerprint, allowing us to use photo identification for “capture/recapture”. This lets us know if a shark is sighted elsewhere on the planet or when the individual returns to the Galapagos.

Blood Draw - For chemical hormonal analysis. This provides data about basic health and may be used to determine reproductive status.

Ultrasound - Allows us to scan the reproductive organs and may be used to determine reproductive status.

Tissue or Biopsy Sampling - To collect DNA for genetic analysis, Stable Isotopes and fatty acids to better understand population size and structure as well as connectivity with other groups worldwide. Additional information may be diet related and used as an indicator of where sharks are feeding.

Environmental Factors and Behaviour - Recorded for better understanding of whale shark ecology and the potential implications of climate change.