DOWNIN THE TROPICS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 The escalating fear is that the Eastern Tropical Pacific Seascape of today is still seen as a region of abundance. However, it is in dire need of improved, science-based management and conservation measures so proper ecosystem function can be maintained. Rapid environmental change and unregulated resource extraction render these measures essential. So, NSU researchers are conducting a five-year study of the ecology, migration patterns, and genetics and genomics of major game fish and sharks in the waters surrounding Tropic Star Lodge and across the broader Eastern Tropical Pacific. One goal is to share the scientific findings with policymakers of the bordering countries, so informed decisions about fisheries management and conservation are made. NSU also has a large shark research program in the Galápagos Islands and is currently engaged with various regional collaborators to broaden fish conservation research across this highly biodiverse region. The combined studies advance all efforts to expand knowledge in this iconic area. New collabo- rators include the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Parque Nacional Galápagos authority. 4 PHOTO © ANASTASIOS | SHUTTERSTOCK
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDE4MDg=