FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute May Research Updates

30-year Anniversary of Florida Panther Genetic Restoration 30-year Anniversary of Florida Panther Genetic RestorationAmphibian Week was started to increase awareness about amphibians and to celebrate all things amphibian! We highlighted species like tiger salamanders, striped newts, sirens, bog frogs and more. In Florida, Ranavirus and chytrid fungi (Bd and Bsal) have become serious concerns for populations of frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. These diseases can cause rapid population declines, even local extinctions, and harm amphibians that are vital to healthy ecosystems. WATCH THE VIDEO Celebrating Amphibian Week! Amphibian Week was started to increase awareness about amphibians and to celebrate all things amphibian! We highlighted species like tiger salamanders, striped newts, sirens, bog frogs and more. In Florida, Ranavirus and chytrid fungi (Bd and Bsal) have become serious concerns for populations of frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. These diseases can cause rapid population declines, even local extinctions, and harm amphibians that are vital to healthy ecosystems. LEARN MORE Skunks in the Sunshine State! A new FWRI study revealed big changes in skunk ranges over the past 20 years. Our researchers used sightings of skunks submitted by Floridians (maybe you?) and those collected by scientists to estimate statewide ranges of each skunk species. We found that  Spotted skunk range declined by 30%  Striped skunk range remained stable  Overlap decreased between the two species' ranges This is the first research to show that spotted skunks in Florida may be in trouble.  READ THE ARTICLE Juvenile white shark capture - ON VIDEO! Our Fisheries Independent Monitoring Biologists observed this 7-and-a-half-foot juvenile white shark while conducting video surveys for the Gulf Fishery Independent Survey of Habitat and Ecosystem Resources (G-FISHER) which uses stereo-baited remote underwater video (S-BRUV) to record a 360° view of reef fish and nearby habitat. This shark is around 13 years old, and was observed about 50 miles offshore of Tarpon Springs, Florida. READ MORE New on MyFWC.com/Research We hope you enjoy these articles that have been recently added/updated on our website: Red Tide Current Status Red Tide-Related Hotlines and Information Sources 2025 Manatee Mortalities Red Tide Manatee Mortalities Annual Rescue Summaries [Manatee] New Publications Inshore Fisheries and Monitoring Coastal Habitat Integrated Mapping and Monitoring Program (CHIMMP) Stone Crab Catch Data Our Mission Through effective research and technical knowledge, we provide timely information and guidance to protect, conserve, and manage Florida's fish and wildlife resources.

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