BTT and FIU are partnering with Florida Keys fishing guides to better understand the diet and resource use of permit and bonefish across the Florida Keys. We are looking for guides to collect samples from the Upper Keys and Biscayne Bay, in addition to our existing partnerships with Lower Keys guides.
Sample collection is brief (~3 mins or less) and includes a ~2cm fin clip taken from the dorsal fin, a fecal swab, fork length, and general catch location for each fish. All necessary materials and instructions can be found in the LKGA fridges located at Angler House or Florida Bay Outfitters, or by contacting Alia Jones.
Data from these samples will be used to identify key prey resources supporting our flats fishery, identify variation in diet and resource use between regions, and inform future conservation and management strategies.
Individual guide data will never be shared or reported – only combined regional data will be used for analysis and reporting. Data summaries can be made available to participating guides upon request.
To volunteer or learn more, please contact Alia Jones – 305-587-3326 | fishscience@fiu.edu
