Shark and Ray Research

CSI’s Marine Biology Society brought in a guest from C.M.E.R.A., the academy that sparked the idea for the club.

By: Amanda Musto

Photos taken by: Rossani Garmendia

In a recent club meeting held by The Marine Biology Society, guest speaker Alan Moore talked with club members over zoom about shark and ray research and conservation.

Moore is part of C.M.E.R.A. which is the Coastal Marine Education and Research Academy. He is in charge of the catching, tagging, and releasing of sharks and sting rays in the Tampa, Clearwater, and Palm Harbor areas of Florida.

This guest speaker was a special pick for the club due to him being a part of C.M.E.R.A. Club president, Paul Proscia had partaken in a program held by C.M.E.R.A. which spiked his interest in marine biology and made him bring his love to campus with a new club.

“I participated in C.M.E.R.A. in July 2023 and it was incredible. I learned so much and it inspired me to start the club in September 2023,” said Proscia. “I recommend it to anyone, regardless if you are going into the field or not because its so unique and interesting.”

This guest speaker was one of many that the club tries to have throughout the semester. The speakers all get a chance to educate the club members on different sorts of marine biology topics when they visit a meeting. The club also educates the speakers on what the club is about and the topics they like to focus on and discuss.

Students can scan the QR code on the club posters to join their WhatsApp chat to stay up to date on guest speaker events, club meetings, and occassional club outings. The posters with the code can be found outside the clubs meeting room, 3S 102, as well as scattered in buildings on campus.