The Wildflower Preserve Nature Walk group observed the tarpon sampling in Lemon Creek Nov. 10.
It was very exciting and educational. Of my photos, I especially like the one of Aaron Adams in the boat with grad student Jo Ellen King in the muck up to her waist.
This proves the point of the purpose of graduate students is in the academic scheme of things. It also shows a female unafraid of mud and gator-infested waters.
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Grad student Jo Ellen King up to her waist in the muck and mud of the Wildflower Preserve.
We will give results as they are developed for the new monthly sampling program for juvenile tarpon in Lemon Creek.
Lemon Creek is an unusually rich nursery ground for tarpon and more accessible than most upper-mangrove areas. The tarpon fishery is dependent on preserving the juvenile habitat in the tidal mangroves, which are well suited to young tarpon with minimal competition and predation.
King is conducting the study under the supervision of Adams from Mote Marine Laboratory.
Fact Box
William Dunson, Ph.d., professor emeritus of biology at Penn State University, splits time between Southwest Florida and his farm in Galax, Va. He can be reached at wdunson@comcast.net.
The next sampling comes during the Wildflower Open House Dec. 8. Meet in parking lot before 9 a.m. at 3120 Gasparilla Pines Blvd. No reservations are necessary. Call (276) 233-6364 with questions
We also have walks at 9 a.m. Dec. 1, Dec. 8, Dec. 15, Dec. 29, Jan. 12, Jan. 26, Feb. 9, Feb. 22, March 2, March 16 and a March 23 open house.
William Dunson, Ph.d., professor emeritus of biology at Penn State University, splits time between Southwest Florida and his farm in Galax, Va. He can be reached at wdunson@comcast.net.
