WHAT WE DO
Monterey Bay White Sharks is an interdisciplinary research program involving Stanford University, UC Santa Cruz, the University of Washington, and the Middlebury Institute. Scientists employ cutting-edge technologies, including satellite tags, genomics, environmental DNA, drones, and advanced ecological and oceanographic models, to study large predators in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Policymakers contribute by recommending strategies to strengthen public outreach and awareness initiatives about white sharks.
Our mission is to advance scientific understanding of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary’s complex ecosystem, from its oceanographic processes to interactions among top predators. We aim to raise public awareness to foster protection and appreciation of this vital marine environment. This research is supported by funding from the Ocean Protection Council, NOAA’s Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS), Stanford University, and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.
To better understand our Blue Serengeti we’re using the latest technology to build a more intensive understanding of how sharks, seals and sea lions use the same waters and the drivers that create these interactions.
1
Acoustic Receiver Array Deployment: Deploy an array of acoustic receivers through the Monterey Bay, Farallones, and Cordell National Marine Sanctuary to facilitate coastal presence data.
2
Electronic Tagging of White Sharks: Electronically tag white sharks with acoustic and satellite tags to gain insights into their California Current movements and migrations into offshore waters of the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre.
3
Advancing Genomics and eDNA Research: Enhance research in genomics and environmental DNA (eDNA) to better understand the biology, evolution, and presence and absence of California white sharks.
4
Standardizing Shark Census: Standardize the shark census for the region by employing photographic and aerial surveys to monitor white shark populations. and simultaneously develop new mark recapture models.
5
Drone Survey Counts of Marine Mammals: Use drone technology to conduct survey counts of marine mammals along the Central Coast and to predict key areas where these animals and sharks to model presence and absence.
6
Satellite Tracking for Movement Analysis: Utilize satellite tracking to analyze the fine-scale movement and timing of arrivals and departures from haul-out sites for marine mammals.
Through these coordinated efforts, we aim to enhance scientific knowledge and raise public awareness of the ecological importance of white sharks and their prey, ultimately fostering their protection and appreciation.