# 58038: Subject: Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi

Submitted by jennifer.mckinney@usm.edu (ip 131.95.240.159)

• Fished on 8/28/2009

• Report received: 8/28/2009

Water Temperature: 82
Water Clarity: good
Seas: 1-2
Weather: Beautiful
Fishing_for: Whale sharks
Boat: .
captain: .

Report:
Scientists at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory are studying whale sharks in the northern Gulf of Mexico. If you encounter a whale shark, please participate in the ONLINE WHALE SHARK SIGHTINGS SURVEY. You can help us learn more about the occurrence and distribution of whale sharks in the region.

To Report a Sighting: Please complete the survey at http://www.usm.edu/gcrl/whaleshark

Information that is helpful to us includes: • Time and duration of encounter • Location (GPS coordinates) • Approximate size and number of sharks • Observed behavior • Associated species • Photos/video (especially of the region behind the gill slits on the left side of the animal—this is used for identification) • Any other distinguishing features (i.e. numbered marker tags located behind the dorsal fin—please notate number)

Please help us spread the word about our survey! Your participation is vital to us gaining a better understanding of their movements and habitat use patterns in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Thank you.

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