Reserach

Entourage

Baseline

During the warmer months of summer, concentration of fish around individual sharks can be observed in the Bahamas. Such concentrations range from small (3 to 5 animals, 1 - 2 species) to very large (up to 100 animals, 4 - 5 species). Formation of such “Entourages”, as well as their dynamics, has been investigaed only in fragments. One of the reasons for such formations could be the juvenile fishes, using sharks bow waves as either swimming assistance, or as protection from predators. The latter are usually close to the shark's mouth region, either above or behind the shark. Other reasons for "Entourage" can currently only be guessed, energetic or mating ares may be reasons.

Target:

Better understanding of formations and dynamics of “Entourages”.

Species observed:

Caribbean Reefshark  (Carcharhinus perezi).

Timeframe:

Collection of data starts in June 2006, lasting for more than a year, they will be done on the same place and with the same shark species. Every research periode lasts at least 2 weeks.

First results: First interpretaions can be expected after the second persiode (September). Season-depending fluctuation not befor autumn 2007.