Tag-A-GiantHere, a team of scientists and fishermen work together to tag an 800+ pound Atlantic blue

Tag-A-Giant

Here, a team of scientists and fishermen work together to tag an 800+ pound Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus), one of the most powerful apex predators in the sea. 

These folks are members of Tag-A-Giant (TAG), an organization that evolved from the Tag-A-Giant research program at Stanford University. Their mission is to help sustainably manage populations of bluefin tuna with scientific research and data-gathering.

Data-gathering is done through electronic tags surgically implanted into the tuna. The tags continuously record data on depth,location,surrounding water temperature, and the tuna’s internal body temperature, allowing researchers to study the movement and habits of this amazing fish.

The data stored in the tags is collected depending on the type of tag used. Pop-up satellite tags automatically detach themselves from the tuna after a certain amount of time, then float to the surface and transmit the data to a satellite.  

Archival tags, on the other hand, are only obtained if the fish is caught—usually by commercial fishermen. As incentive, TAG gives out a $1,000 reward for the return of their archival tags. 

…for science! (and sustainable fishing!)

*note: Pop-up tags also fetch a nice $500 reward if found, and can wind up washed up on beaches. Vacationers, keep an eye out!

Photos:TAG Blog

References:TAG

                     Blocket al. 2005.      

                     Blocket al.1998