The tarpon genetic recapture study gives you the opportunity to make a direct contribution to advancing scientific research for one of Florida’s most popular sport fish. If you are interested in collecting DNA samples, FWRI will provide you a free and easy-to-use sampling kit. The kit contains an abrasive pad that is used to remove skin cells from the outer jaw of the tarpon. When collecting the skin cells, remember to leave the fish in the water unless you have a harvest or possession tag to attach to the fish.

Biologists welcome samples from any tarpon, regardless of size or capture location. Each DNA sample identifies a tarpon’s unique genetic "fingerprint." Using DNA is a cost-effective, less-invasive way to tag tarpon, and unlike conventional tags, it lasts forever. Scientists compare new tarpon DNA samples with cataloged samples to determine if the tarpon has been caught and sampled previously. Scientists also use this information to determine movement of tarpon in waters off the coast of Florida.

To obtain a tarpon DNA sampling kit, e-mail TarponGenetics@MyFWC.com or call 1-800-367-4461.

FWRI and Mote researchers will notify you if any of the fish you sample are re-captured. If you have computer access, you will be able to map your tarpon’s tag and recapture locations. If you collect and return a DNA sample directly to FWRI or to one of the statewide collection centers listed on the FWRI Web site, you will be entered in a random drawing for various prizes.

To learn more about FWRI’s research projects, visit Research.MyFWC.com