NC State Boosts Marine Research with Big Rock Blue Marlins

TL/DR –

The Big Rock Tournament catches rare Blue Marlins which are then handed over to students at NC State University Center for Marine Sciences for testing, largely because of their inedible mercury levels. These studies are aimed primarily at tracking the fish’s movement and migration patterns, according to PhD student Ryan Tharp. The tests, involving sampling skin, liver and muscle tissue, are essential for contributing to a knowledge base for future studies and management practices related to the species.

Blue Marlins in the Big Rock Tournament: From Catch to Research

At the Big Rock Tournament, in Morehead City, Carteret County, not every catch like the Blue Marlins ends up on the dinner table. Instead, these rare catches offer a unique opportunity for research.

Once caught, Blue Marlins are handed off to eager students from the NC State University Center for Marine Sciences of Technology. These students, including PhD student Ryan Tharpe, run various tests to gain further knowledge about the species.

It’s worth noting that the tournament mostly yields female Blue Marlins, which are three times larger than their male counterparts. After being measured and weighed, these precious catches are shipped to NC State for further study.

Tharpe explains the research’s significance: “It’s important because there’s not a lot of information on the Marlin. Its building a good framework, a good foundation of knowledge for future studies and for future management practices that could come out of this.”

Most Marlin studies at NC State involve tracking their movement and migration patterns. Additionally, students take samples of the fish’s skin, liver, and muscle tissue, providing insights into the species and their inedible mercury levels.

As of June 14, no Blue Marlins have been caught at the tournament.

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