Searching for Sawfish: Investigating the Biogeographic Patterns of Pristis pectinata in a Global Species Distribution Model
Description
The smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata) is a critically endangered species endemic to the Atlantic Ocean basin, with its range historically extending from the Gulf of Mexico to Brazil. Over the past century, the species has experienced severe population declines and a shrinking habitat due to human activity, including bycatch, habitat degradation, and illegal trade of its rostrum. Although primarily restricted to the southern coast of Florida, remnant populations may still exist in the Bahamas and along the West African coast. To support conservation efforts, species distribution models (SDMs) were employed to map the current and potential habitats of the smalltooth sawfish, incorporating occurrence data from public encounters and environmental variables from satellite sources. This study also examines habitat preferences across different age classes, identifying critical areas for protection. Findings highlight the influence of sea temperature, benthic salinity, and dissolved oxygen on sawfish distribution and potential differences in influences based on age classes. They underscore the need for targeted conservation measures to aid in population recovery. Future research should focus on expanding data collection in underrepresented areas and age classes to refine habitat suitability models further.
Details
Contributors
- Loudy, Remie (Author)
- Kinzig, Ann (Thesis advisor)
- Suzart de Albuquerque, Fabio (Thesis advisor)
- Senko, Jesse (Committee member)
- Arizona State University (Publisher)
Date Created
The date the item was original created (prior to any relationship with the ASU Digital Repositories.)
2024
Topical Subject
Resource Type
Language
- eng
Note
- Partial requirement for: M.S., Arizona State University, 2024
- Field of study: Biology
Additional Information
English
Extent
- 47 pages