Assessment of Reef Fish Populations within Dry Tortugas National

Dry Tortugas National Park represents a unique coral reef ecosystem that is isolated and contains a variety of reef fish habitats. This study will determine which habitats are important for hogfish and how and when hogfish utilize these habitats. Due to the high economic value of this species and recent regulation changes, understanding the temporal and spatial movement as well as the ontogenetic shifts in habitat use of hogfish are important for the management of this species. This study aims to provide managers with better information for the management, conservation, development, and restoration plan for this species.