Our research is focused on understanding the ecological importance of large predators, especially in the ocean, and the consequences of human-induced declines in their populations. Dr. Heithaus is best known for his work on sharks – which has included studies on their wider ecosystems (including potential prey like marine mammals and sea turtles) – and the importance of behavioral responses of prey to predators in structuring ecosystems (the ecology of fear).
Projects
Explore our ongoing research efforts.
- Global FinPrint
- Coastal Everglades Predators
- Shark Bay Ecosystem Research Project
- Biscayne Bay Bottlenose Dolphins
Technology
Learn about our tools and techniques.
- Animal-borne imaging
- Acoustic monitoring (C-PODs)
- Drones
- (e)DNA
- Telemetry
- VR/video monitoring
Species
Meet the animals we study.
- Crocodilians
- Sea turtles
- Sharks & rays
- Whales & dolphins