Analyzing Effects from Land Use Change in the Watershed
Research
Researchers

Overview

Research staff and visiting scientists conduct research and monitoring within the watersheds and boundaries of the Reserve. Collaborative efforts include analyzing the impacts of mosquito control aerial spraying, mangrove and oyster reef ecology, restoration ecology, estuarine fisheries, and nutrient cycling.

Researchers also use computer-based Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map critical habitats and flow ways. Research results provide important information for use in adaptive management throughout the Reserve.
 
Cold Temperature Effects on Fishes
Mojarra
Mojarra Numbers - 2010
Pinfish Numbers - 2010
Pinfish Numbers - 2010
2010

This past winter provided unusually cold temperatures for extended periods in Southwest Florida. In early January 2010, the air temperatures were below freezing causing estuarine water temperatures to drop below many fishes’ tolerance levels. Anecdotal reports of dead fishes included (but wasn’t limited to) snook, tarpon, snappers, catfish, ladyfish, mullet, needlefish, and mojarras, a common baitfish.

According to trawl data collected over the past ten years, juvenile pinfish, another common baitfish, increased significantly from February 2010 through May 2010 compared to previous years. A likely cause could be the decrease in predatory estuarine fish such as snook, tarpon and snappers. Three species of flatfish (gulf flounder, tonguefish and lined sole) also showed significant increases in abundance in the months following the fish die-off compared to previous years.
 
New Fish Caught During Fisheries Research
Trichiurus lepturus Atlantic cutlassfish, Trichiurus lepturus
As part of the Reserve’s research partnership with the City of Naples, fisheries biologist Pat O’Donnell trawled up a fish in Moorings Bay that has not been documented in the area in over 30 years. It was an Atlantic cutlassfish, Trichiurus lepturus, and was 23cm long. Cutlassfish can reach lengths over 100 cm and are found in coastal areas around the world. In some regions they are frequently used as bait and also are considered a delicacy. This specimen was retained and preserved for the Reserve’s collection. One was last reported from the TTI in the early 1970’s by Carter, et al.
 
Geodetic Survey Benchmark
Geodetic Survey Benchmark New NOAA National Geodetic Survey Benchmark installed in Learning Center courtyard.
Commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Reserve, this medallion is fixed in place and provides a spatially accurate benchmark. NOAA staff using satellite technology have surveyed it vertically (elevation) as well as using lat/long coordinates, and it is a verifiable reference point for research and site surveys.
The benchmark’s lat/long coordinates are 26 03 00 N, 81 42 30 W
 


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Research Papers

Visiting Investigators Research Papers

A selection of Research Papers:

GIS Shapefiles

GIS Shape Files

GIS Software required

95doqbase

A basemap of Southwest Collier County created from the 1995 United States Geological Survey (USGS) Digital Ortho Quarter Quads (DOQQ). The shapefile covers the coastal area from South Naples to Everglades City.


Statute

The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve managed boundary.


Shapefiles are not for legal use. For illustrative purposes only.