Date of Award
Spring 4-17-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
April 2026
Department
Marine Science and Oceanography
College Granting Degree
Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Department Granting Degree
Marine Science and Oceanography
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
John Baldwin
Thesis/Dissertation Co-Chair
Kristen M Hart
Abstract
Understanding how oceanographic conditions influences foraging habitat use in adult loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) is essential for predicting responses to changing marine conditions. This thesis examined how environmental conditions were associated with area-restricted search (ARS), Transit behavior, and state switching across the Eastern Gulf of America and adjacent Western North Atlantic from 2019 to 2024. Satellite telemetry from 136 adults was quality controlled, regularized at 12-h intervals with state-space models, and analyzed using two-state Hidden Markov Models. Predicted locations were linked to sea surface temperature, chlorophyll-a, mixed-layer depth, salinity, total kinetic energy, mean absolute dynamic topography, bathymetric depth, and basin. Results showed clear separation between ARS and Transit, with ARS characterized by shorter, more tortuous movements and concentrated on shelves and nearshore habitats, whereas Transit involved longer, more directed displacements through deeper-water corridors, especially the Florida Straits. Overall, oceanographic conditions shaped behavioral switching, cross-basin connectivity, and recurrent foraging habitat use.
Recommended Citation
Centeno-Chaves, Allison, "INFLUENCE OF OCEANOGRAPHIC CONDITIONS ON BEHAVIORAL STATE SWITCHING AND FORAGING HABITAT USE OF ADULT LOGGERHEAD TURTLES (CARETTA CARETTA)" (2026). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 295.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/295