Sex-based differences in movement and space use of the blacktip reef shark, Carcharhinus melanopterus.

摘要: Information on the spatial ecology of reef sharks is critical to understanding life-history patterns, yet gaps remain in our knowledge how these species move and occupy space. Previous studies have focused offshore reefs atolls with little information available movement space use utilising habitats closer shore. Cross-shelf differences physical biological properties can alter regional ecosystem processes resulting different patterns for resident sharks. Passive acoustic telemetry was used examine residency, depth 40 blacktip sharks, Carcharhinus melanopterus, an inshore Queensland, Australia, assess temporal or influences. All showed strong site-attachment residency highest among adult females. Sharks exhibited a sex-based, seasonal pattern where males moved more, occupied more explored new areas during reproductive season, while females utilised same amount throughout year, but shifted location used. A positive relationship also observed between size. There evidence site fidelity long-distance coordinated, annual migration two study mating season. Depth segregated some small occupying shallower depths than adults day most likely as refuge from predation. Results highlight importance provide connectivity reefs, at least males.