Project Overview

Guitarfish are a unique and vulnerable group of rays that remain largely understudied. South Florida is home to one species, the Atlantic Guitarfish (Pseudobatos lentiginosus), yet scientific research on this species is scarce, with fewer than ten studies published to date. Most of this research, conducted over 25 years ago, focuses on reproduction, diet, disease, and vision, leaving many questions unanswered. This project seeks to close the knowledge gap by studying the movement patterns and habitat use of Atlantic guitarfish. Researchers will tag individuals off the coast of Palm Beach County, Florida, using acoustic telemetry to track their movements. By understanding where they go and what environments they rely on, we can better protect this species and their habitats.

Atlantic guitarfish face numerous threats across their range, including commercial trawling, handline, and gillnet fisheries. These fishing practices either directly harvest guitarfish or unintentionally catch them as bycatch. In addition, habitat loss from coastal development and oil exploration further threatens their populations. As fishing pressure increases and projections of Atlantic guitarfish populations decrease, it is important to address our lack of knowledge and expand research of this species. The findings from this study will help guide fisheries management strategies and conservation efforts of Atlantic guitarfish.