Developing a species distribution model for whale sharks in Baja California Sur
Predicting how habitats will shift under different climate scenarios has become increasingly relevant for marine spatial planning. This project aims to develop a high-resolution, spatially explicit species distribution model (SDM) for whale sharks in Baja California Sur, integrating SPOT tag data and near-real-time environmental variables. This model will predict habitat suitability and assess the impact of oceanographic events like ENSO on whale shark distribution.
Findings will support conservation policies, sustainable ecotourism guidelines, and economic resilience for local operators. Through stakeholder engagement, workshops, and policy recommendations, the project will enhance decision-making for conservation and tourism management, ensuring long-term ecological and economic sustainability while promoting responsible interactions with this endangered species.
Our Collaborators
Pelagios Kakunja
Pelagios Kakunjá is a non-profit organization created in 2010 by the Mexican scientists Mauricio Hoyos and James Ketchum.
Our main goal is to study and protect sharks and mantas in Mexico, many of which are globally endangered, mainly due to overfishing. We aim to provide technical information for the regional management and implementation of conservation strategies for these species here in Mexico.
Future of Marine Ecosystems Lab
The FOME Lab at Dalhousie University explores how marine ecosystems adapt and respond in the face of human impacts such as climate change. Their mission is to help develop the knowledge base to ensure a sustainable ocean over the coming century.