Fundamental research aimed at elucidating principles that underlie the conservation and restoration of biological diversity is of utmost importance. This is the priority of Dr. Owen's research program. The goal of this project is to continue his work at the Santa Rosa National Park in Costa Rica on an endangered marine species. These animals and several other large vertebrates in the region are under severe over exploitation and accidental capture pressure in their oceanic environment which, in turn, is causing dramatic drops in their population. Previous NSF support has resulted in state-of-the-art research on some of the most difficult problems in marine animal biology. Dr. Owens will now employ small satellite, sonic and radio transmitters to monitor the migratory behavior of these sea-going animals. In addition, he will measure the level of steroid hormones to determine the correlation between endocrine physiology and reproductive and migratory behaviors. A major collaborative research effort has been established between Dr. Owens and Costa Rican students and scientists. Their goal is to gain new insights into understanding the conservation of these animals within their natural habitat. The outcome of this work will not only provide a more complete understanding of their basic biology but may lead to improvement in the conservation and survival prospects for this economically valuable marine species.
