Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Moore, Jon

Abstract

The shortfin mako shark, Isurus oxyrinchus, is an active, pelagic shark and perhaps the fastest chondrichtyhan species. It is an obligate ram-ventilator requiring constant forward motion to force water through its open mouth for respiration. Video footage obtained from animal-borne dorsal fin cameras of three individuals was reviewed to document potential predation events and other relevant behavioral information including head beats, post-release behavior, and respiratory anomalies. Respiratory anomalies are of particular interest, as they occur rhythmically and repetitively in relation to head movements, indicating this behavior is potentially used to satisfy respiration requirements not met by typical ram ventilation. One concern is shark post-capture recovery rate, as handling can negatively impact stress levels of the individual, demonstrated by swimming behavior following release. Animal-borne camera systems can provide a useful tool to quantify the short-term impacts of catch-and-release practices on large pelagic species targeted by fisheries.

Comments

Includes bibliography.

Extent

42 p.

Identifier

FAUHT00050

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