Tracking Sharks and Rays: A Collaborative Dive into Marine Research with Chi-Ju Yu (Debbie)

In the vast mysteries surrounding ocean life, few creatures captivate the imagination like sharks and rays. But beyond fascination lies the crucial work of research and conservation—a mission that Chi-Ju Yu (Debbie), a postdoctoral researcher from Dr. Shoou-Jeng Joung’s lab at National Taiwan Ocean University, knows well. Her journey in marine research began 13 years ago and has taken her across continents, most recently bringing her to Georgia Aquarium for a collaborative project aimed at improving the understanding and management of these species.

A Passion Born in the Classroom  

Debbie’s love for sharks was ignited during a Fisheries Dynamic and Chondrichthyes class taught by Dr. Joung. “Through the course, I realized Taiwan needs more researchers focusing on sustainable fisheries management,” she explains. This realization propelled her to join Dr. Joung’s team and dedicate herself to shark and ray research. 

Her postdoctoral work currently involves using acoustic telemetry, a technique that tracks animal movements by attaching tags that communicate with underwater receivers. Supported by the Georgia Aquarium, this project aims to monitor large species, such as whale sharks and Taiwanese wedgefish, within Taiwan’s waters.  

Collaborative Research Across Oceans  

Debbie’s research goes beyond tracking sharks. She’s working with the Fisheries Research Institute (FRI) and Georgia Aquarium to deploy acoustic receivers around Taiwan. These tools help detect tagged marine animals and gather data on their movements and behaviors. “I’ve also participated in satellite tagging programs for whale sharks and studies on the scalloped hammerhead shark in Western Taiwan,” she adds. 

Her visit to Georgia Aquarium offered invaluable insights. “I wanted to observe the Aquarium’s animal monitoring, handling techniques, and fieldwork,” Debbie shares. It also provided an opportunity to explore future collaborative projects. “Research challenges differ between regions, and Taiwan’s work is often limited by funding, staff, and techniques. Collaborating with Georgia Aquarium helps us address these gaps and fosters a mutual exchange.”

Learning from the Experts  

While at Georgia Aquarium, Debbie immersed herself in various activities, from feeding animals in the Ocean Voyager exhibit to assisting with assessments in the field. “I even got to take my first blood sample from a shark and implant an acoustic transmitter with Dr. Lisa Hoopes and Dr. Kady Lyons,” she recalls fondly. 

Her time with the Aquarium’s teams reinforced the importance of different monitoring techniques—ultrasound examinations, behavior tracking, and data analysis—all essential tools for understanding marine life. “Although I couldn’t observe everything the Aquarium’s team does, every moment spent here was priceless.”

Facing Challenges in Shark Research  

Field research presents unique hurdles, from safety risks to the unpredictability of wildlife encounters. “The biggest challenge is that you can’t always get the sample or data you need,” Debbie reflects. In Taiwan, habitat destruction and fishing practices also pose significant threats to sharks. However, the country has adopted sustainable management strategies, including whole-fish utilization and bycatch monitoring under international guidelines. Despite these efforts, Debbie notes that traditional surveys remain insufficient, underlining the need for continued research and international collaboration.

A Global Vision for Shark Conservation  

Debbie’s work highlights how acoustic tracking programs foster global conservation efforts. “Our receivers might detect species tagged by other research teams, and our tagged sharks could be tracked in other regions,” she explains. Connecting nations like Taiwan, Australia, the Philippines, and Japan could yield crucial insights into the movement patterns, population structures, and life stages of marine animals. “These collaborative efforts will help us develop sustainable resource management strategies.” 

Priceless Memories and a Hopeful Future  

For Debbie, her time with Georgia Aquarium wasn’t just about research—it was also about meaningful experiences. “I saw how the Ocean Voyager team creates unique feeding plans for the whale sharks and conducts regular health checks. I even got to dive with the team and assist in training activities.” 

Her gratitude for the experience is evident. “This opportunity to learn and explore means so much to me. I hope to meet everyone again soon, and they’re always welcome to visit me in Taiwan.”  

Debbie’s work is a testament to the power of collaboration in advancing marine conservation. With every tag deployed and every data point collected, she moves one step closer to ensuring the future of these majestic creatures—both in Taiwan’s waters and across the globe.