The Ecological Importance of Sharks
Dr. Mike Heithaus, Vice Provost, Dean & Professor
College of Arts, Sciences & Education at Florida International University
Dr. Heithaus brings the world of sharks to life as he discusses decades of cutting-edge research to unravel how sharks influence ecosystems and why they are important parts of oceans.
October 24th, 2024 @ 11:30 AM ET
** Please note that our live webinar with Dr. Heithaus, which was originally scheduled for Oct. 10th, was postponed in anticipation of Hurricane Milton’s impacts across Florida. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and hope you can join us on Oct. 24th! **
R/V ANGARI Expeditions:
Select Supplemental Content:
[READING] ANGARI Foundation – Meet Mike Heithaus
[RESOURCE LIBRARY] Florida International University – Ecological Importance of Sharks
[READING] The Conversation – Oceans without sharks would be far less healthy – new research
[VIDEO SHORT] PBS Digital Studios – Be Smart | What If There Were No Sharks?
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PRESENTER BIO
Dr. Mike Heithaus is a marine ecologist, specializing in predator-prey interactions and the ecological importance of sharks and other large marine species. His research focuses on the importance of predator-prey interactions in ecosystems. His work in Shark Bay, Australia is the most detailed study of the ecological role of sharks in the world and has been used to affect positive policy changes. Dr. Heithaus has published 200+ scientific papers and book chapters, and co-edited four books. Prior to joining FIU, he was a scientist at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Center for Shark Research and worked with National Geographic’s Remote Imaging Department. Dr. Heithaus has dedicated his career to bringing the excitement of scientific exploration and discovery to audiences of all ages. He has been involved in the production of more than thirty natural history documentaries, for Shark Week and National Geographic/Disney+ SharkFest. He also has helped develop K-12 science programs to bring the excitement of field research into the classroom. He received a B.A. in Biology from Oberlin College in 1995 and completed his Ph.D. at Simon Fraser University in 2001.
Ocean Expert Exchange is a live educational webinar series featuring experts in marine science and technology, many of whom have participated in expeditions onboard R/V ANGARI. The 30-minute live events welcome audiences of all ages and include a presentation on the speaker’s area of expertise followed by Q&A with participants. The series is co-hosted by ANGARI Foundation and the University of Florida Thompson Earth Systems Institute’s Scientist in Every Florida School program.