MOMMA SHARK PROJECT
ފެން ވިރާސާ މަޝްރޫއު
in collaboration with:
WHAT ARE WE DOING?
AssessING TIGER SHARK REPRODUCTION USING PORTABLE NON-INVASIVE ULTRASOUND TECHNOLOGY
In this groundbreaking collaboration the “Momma Shark” project team is using non-invasive ultrasound technology to study the reproductive biology of tiger sharks in the Maldives. By assessing gestation stages, tracking embryo growth, and documenting key reproductive metrics, we aim to establish a detailed understanding of tiger shark reproduction in the Maldives, expanding both local and global knowledge of the species.
WHAT Are the project objectives?
Document Gestation Dynamics in Tiger Sharks
MEASURE EMBRYO SIZE
Create a detailed dataset of embryo size, providing a foundation for understanding reproductive success and development in tiger sharks.
Conduct systematic ultrasound assessments to identify different stages of gestation, including pregnancy initiation, mid-term, and late-term development, to better understand the timeline of tiger shark reproduction.
HOW DO WE DO THIS?
Use Ultrasound Technology for Non-Invasive Data Collection
Deploy portable ultrasound devices to safely assess gestation and embryo development in free-swimming tiger sharks, ensuring the health and well-being of the animals during data collection.
Ultrasound technology uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal structures. Here’s how it works in the context of tiger shark research:
Emission of Sound Waves:
A handheld ultrasound probe emits sound waves into the shark's body. These waves travel through tissues and fluids at different speeds, depending on the density of the structures they encounter.Reflection of Waves:
When the sound waves hit a boundary between different tissues, such as between the uterine wall and an embryo, some of the waves are reflected back to the probe while others continue through.Image Formation:
The reflected sound waves are collected by the probe and translated by the ultrasound machine into a live, two-dimensional image. This allows researchers to visualize structures like embryos, uterine linings, and fluid-filled spaces, providing insights into the shark’s reproductive state.
WHY DOES THIS MATTER?
ADVANCING KNOWLEDGE ON Tiger Sharks in the Maldives
Understanding reproductive biology is critical for developing conservation strategies tailored to Maldivian tiger shark populations, which are essential to maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.
Contribute to Global Shark Conservation
By expanding global knowledge of tiger shark reproduction, the project supports broader efforts to protect the species from threats like overfishing and habitat loss, ensuring their survival worldwide.
PROMOTE Non-Invasive Research Methods:
Refining and promoting the use of ultrasound technology provides a valuable tool for studying large, migratory species without causing harm, setting a precedent for future research initiatives focused on this species.
