GPS Tracking Devices Are Being Used To Track Marine Life |
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TrackCompare,
October 14, 2009 Other Tracking |
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Scientists are using GPS tracking devices to track large fish which live in our oceans; it is giving them the ability to gather highly detailed information which is directly displayed onto a researcher’s computer. It’s exactly the same technology that is used in vehicle tracking.
Originally researchers had to retrieve a data tag from a fish to access the data, now the GPS tracking tag shows the fishes location every time it surfaces, which then plots points on a map. At the moment they are testing the device on sunfish caught in the Gulf of Cadiz. They have so far attached devices to three fish; unfortunately the first two devices fell off, but the third one continued transmitting data for three months. Further trials are due to go ahead using various other methods to attach the GPS tracking devices to try to find a more reliable way to keep them on the fish.
This kind of research is a vital tool in helping scientists plot migration routes of the sunfish as they travel south as winter progresses. It should also help to track other species which are under threat.
This shows how GPS tracking devices are so versatile these days, from being able to track vehicles to birds.









