Assessing the value of recreational divers for censusing elasmobranchs.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Around the world, researchers are using the observations and experiences of citizens to describe patterns in animal populations. This data is often collected via ongoing sampling or by synthesizing past experiences. Since elasmobranchs are relatively rare, obtaining data for broad-scale trend analysis requires high sampling effort. Elasmobranchs are also relatively large and conspicuous and therefore it may be possible to enlist recreational divers to collect data on their occurrence and relative abundance from daily dive activities. For this, however, a good understanding of the value of data collected by recreational divers is essential.

Methodology/principal findings

Here, we explore the value of recreational divers for censusing elasmobranchs using a diverse s

SUBMITTER: Ward-Paige CA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3189927 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature