One tarpon angler in Florida has not only caught and released nearly 150 tarpon, he also tagged them using DNA sampling techniques. Samples are collected by recreational anglers and processed by the folks at FWRI.
The numbers reported below report the top ten anglers who turned in samples between January 1, 2009 and October 31, 2009.
The Tarpon Genetic Recapture Study gives anglers the opportunity to make a direct impact on state-of-the-art research. Anglers statewide can collect a DNA sample by removing a few skin cells from the outside of a tarpon’s jawbone using an abrasive pad provided in a free sampling kit. The tarpon can be any size.
The new tarpon DNA sampling kits are easy to use, especially because the fish can remain in the water while the angler collects the sample. Participants can obtain a free tarpon DNA sampling kit and instructions by calling 1-800-367-4461 or e-mailing
TarponGenetics@MyFWC.com.
Top Ten 2009 Tarpon DNA Samplers for Florida are:
Mark Bennett 147
Jon Mallory 136
Ed Walker 119
Robert McCue 86
John Manuel 70
Raymond Baird 63
Roy Bennett 56
Lee Roberts 50
Jeff Owens 49
Dave Markett 37
For more information on Tarpon DNA sampling visit the Tarpon Genetic Recapture Program.
For details on a free DNA Sampling seminar click here.
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