Podcast: Two Sea Fans

Mote’s Stranding Investigations Program responds 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, to reports of injured, sick or dead marine mammals and sea turtles in Mote’s local area, Sarasota and Manatee counties in southwest Florida. Gretchen Lovewell, Manager of this program, tells Hayley and Joe what it takes to rescue dolphins and other animals in need, what people can expect when they call Mote’s stranding pager, and about the occasional “false alarm” calls that add surprising humor to a challenging job. (To report stranded marine life in Sarasota and Manatee counties, call this program at 888-345-2335.)

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Helpful bacteria live on and inside fish (and us).  Dr. Andrea Tarnecki, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Mote, shares her research geared toward understanding fish-related bacteria and using some helpful bacteria to raise healthier fish in aquaculture, also called fish farming. And of course, Dr. Tarnecki indulges Joe’s interest in fish poop. Episode transcript provided by intern Mary Alice Blackstock.

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With a focus on the Florida red tides (harmful algae) that can kill fish and make Gulf of Mexico beachgoers cough, Hayley and Joe learn about Mote’s Environmental Health Program from its manager, Dr. Tracy Fanara.

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U.S. and Cuban shark scientists are building bonds through joint research. Dr. Bob Hueter, Director of Mote’s Center for Shark Research, and Alexei Ruiz Abierno of University of Havana discuss Cuba’s amazing sharks — including one rare species they tracked from Cuban to U.S. waters. They discuss the hurdles and triumphs of working together amid the tentative relationship between the two nations.

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Get to know Mote Marine Laboratory during this inaugural episode, in which hosts Joe Nickelson and Hayley Rutger share the storied history of this independent, nonprofit marine research and education facility in Sarasota Florida. Hear about the adventures of Mote’s founding “Shark Lady” and dip your toes into Mote’s brand-new podcast, Two Sea Fans! Episode transcript courtesy of our intern, Mary Alice Blackstock

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