TROPICAL FISH TALES by Dr. Jerry Ault, Professor UM Rosenstiel School

Dr. Jerry Ault provides an “in depth” look at the spectacular range of behaviors and adaptations marine fish have made to enhance their chances of success in support of the “Fishing Capital of the World”. As chief scientific advisor for the Bonefish Tarpon Trust he will discuss how Atlantic tarpon, a multibillion-dollar sportfishery, migrate by following the 26° C isotherm. And how pink shrimp larvae ‘ride’ ocean currents; while black mullet ‘runs’ are triggered by passing cold fronts. He will also uncover the mechanisms behind the yearly arrival of large pelagic fishes like billfish, tunas and dolphinfish on Florida’s coasts, and the sex-changing adaptive behaviors of tropical groupers and snappers.