Research

Tagging

Tag Types

CMAR scientists use five different types of tags to learn about the movements of marine species. They are conventional tags, acoustic tags, archival tags, satellite tags and pop-off archival transponding (PAT) tags.

Archival tag	Acoustic Tag	Conventional tag	PAT tag	Satellite tag
Click on an image for more information.

All these tags are in common use worldwide, although some tags used by CMAR are modified to suit particular species. These modifications are made to maximise the performance of the tag (particularly the electronic types), to ensure they release from the animal when no longer required, or to avoid causing irritation.

All tagging activities are scrutinised by an independent animal ethics committee and require permits under state or commonwealth legislation, depending on where tagging is carried out.

Last updated 12/11/08