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Effect of ration size on growth and gross conversion efficiency of young hammerhead sharks, Sphyrna lewini

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between food consumed and the gross conversion efficiency (K) of scalloped hammerhead sharks. We are holding juvenile sharks in controlled captive environments and feeding them a variety of daily rations (from 1.5% of their body weight to all-they-can-eat). During the experiment, we are quantifying their weight change, daily intake, and activity rates. In addition, factors known to affect growth such as water temperature, ph, salinity, and day length are being measured. As part of our GK12 goal of integrating research with education, we are working with a number of teachers and schools to combine classroom work with field research. Classroom lessons are geared to teach students about marine ecology, especially the roles of predators and sharks in that environment. The field component is at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) where students are responsible for feeding and maintaining the sharks as well as collecting data. The end goal is for students in this project to have a positive experience working with sharks while at the same time have an opportunity to interact with the marine environment that is such an important part of life in Hawaii. QUESTIONS? Want to participate? e-mail: gotshark@gmail.com.

Preparation for Teaching: May 2004 - August 2004

(Student volunteers from Kaiser, Punahou, Catalina Island Marine Institute, and the University of Hawaii)

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Upward Bound Students: June 2004 - August 2004

(Teacher partners Michael Moser and Erik Kenner)

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POSTER (pdf) of Upward Bound Hammerhead Research

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SLIDE SHOW in Windows Media Player

Mililani High School Students: August 2004 - September 2004

(Teacher partner Corrine Durso)

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VIDEO of Mililani Hammerhead Research (5 minutes: needs Quicktime 6 or greater to play)

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Castle High School Students: September 2004 - October 2004

(Teacher partner Erik Kenner)

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Farrington High School Students: October 2004 - February 2004

(Teacher partner Mari Taira)

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SPOTLIGHT Farrington High Newspaper reports on Ms. Taira's Marine Biology Classes

Go to High School Hammerhead Research Project Home