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Movements and growth of a female basking shark re-sighted after a three year period

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 April 2001

David W. Sims
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK Marine Biological Association, The Laboratory, Citadel Hill, Plymouth, PL1 2PB, UK
Colin D. Speedie
Affiliation:
Wildlife Trusts Seaquest Project, Waterside House, Falmouth Road, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 8BE, UK
Adrian M. Fox
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK

Abstract

Basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) movement patterns and growth rates over annual cycles remain entirely unknown. Here the re-sighting of a female identified by a highly distinctive first dorsal fin, after a 3·1 year period is described. Our results show this individual foraged at the surface in coastal areas off south-west England in at least two of four summer seasons and increased in total length by 2·4 m over this period. The growth increment observed was similar to that predicted from the growth model for this species.

Type
Brief Report
Copyright
© 2000 Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom

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