Marine Science students on a mission to find sharks in the Gulf of Maine

Throughout the summer, Marine Science students have joined James Sulikowski, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Marine Sciences, on a mission to study baby porbeagle sharks in the Gulf of Maine.

The excursions are part of a project that began in 2013 with the goal of using satellite tags to learn more about the physiology, ecology, and movement of these young sharks to determine what parts of the Gulf of Maine serve as nursery grounds for this species.

So far, three satellite tags have been placed on baby porbeagle sharks. The relatively new technology is incredibly sophisticated, recording temperature, depth, and location. 

In their mission to find baby porbeagles, the students often catch other species of sharks as well. This gives them the unique opportunity to interact with and learn about the physiology and ecology of those sharks in Maine waters, providing a valuable hands-on learning experience for students at UNE. “The involvement of dedicated, responsible, and motivated students is not only essential to advance our understanding of the ecology of sharks, but it also provides a stepping stone for the training of future marine scientists” said Sulikowski.