Current Projects
TCBDP researchers are working on a variety of projects studying the local bottlenose dolphin populations in the Texas Coastal Bend. Click on each picture below to learn more about each project.
Photos taken under NMFS permits 21938 & 23203
01
Dolphin Distribution & Abundance
Bottlenose dolphins have not been studied in the TCB since the 1980's and early 1990's. TCBDP researchers are currently studying the population abundance and distribution of common bottlenose dolphins in the Texas Coastal Bend.
02
Dolphin Health
Dolphins inhabiting coastal areas can be negatively impacted from changes in salinity conditions due to freshwater input from severe weather storms. The effects of natural exposure to high salinity conditions in dolphins are currently unknown. TCBDP researchers are assessing resident dolphins that inhabit the Laguna Madre, Texas, as it is the only naturally occurring hyper saline lagoon in the USA.
03
Dolphin & Vessel Interactions
The Corpus Christi Ship Channel experiences a variety of daily boat traffic. Dolphins use this ship channel for their daily activities. A study is underway to gain knowledge of dolphin and vessel interactions in the ship channel off of Port Aransas, Texas.
04
Bow-riding Behavior
Bow-riding occurs when dolphins ride on the front of pressure waves created by vessel movement. Dolphins are often observed bow-riding on large vessels in the Corpus Christi Ship Channel. A project is underway to understand what might promote this behavior in the ship channel.
05
Reproductive Biology
Understanding the reproductive biology of dolphins can help inform conservation efforts for these important species. Dolphins give birth about every 3-6 years and they invest lots of effort into raising their offspring. Multiple projects are underway to better understand the reproductive anatomy of dolphins and other marine mammals.