Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
For over a decade, FWC and NOAA scientists have collaborated to study a cubera snapper aggregation in a remote, protected area of the Dry Tortugas region. This study found large numbers of aggregating cubera snapper and indirect evidence that these were spawning aggregations, making cubera snapper the latest in a list of multiple fish species that use this area for reproduction.
Key Findings:
Strong evidence of a persistent cubera snapper aggregation at Riley’s Hump
Indirect evidence suggests this is a spawning aggregation site
No-take protection appears to support ecosystem recovery and function
For over a decade, FWC and NOAA scientists have collaborated to study a cubera snapper aggregation in a remote, protected area of the Dry Tortugas region. This study found large numbers of aggregating cubera snapper and indirect evidence that these were spawning aggregations, making cubera snapper the latest in a list of multiple fish species that use this area for reproduction.
Key Findings:
Strong evidence of a persistent cubera snapper aggregation at Riley’s Hump
Indirect evidence suggests this is a spawning aggregation site
No-take protection appears to support ecosystem recovery and function
