Bonefish populations in Florida Bay have been declining over many years, with steep population decreases noted in the past five years. Beyond an indication of an ecological problem, bonefish were once a big draw for recreational fishing in the Florida Keys. With fewer bonefish to catch, business is going elsewhere.  The decline in bonefish could also indicate other ecological problems and affect other species in Florida Bay.

The precise cause of the bonefish decline is unknown, so Audubon scientists are studying what is most important to a bonefish:  food.

Have the crabs, shrimp, and worms bonefish need also declined? 

The food available—or not available—at bonefish habitats will help Audubon scientists piece together what has led to their virtual disappearance in Florida Bay. Changes in historical water flows through the Everglades has resulted in many changes to the Florida Bay ecosystem, although it is not yet known if the bonefish decline is related to Everglades water flows.

Based in Tavernier, Audubon’s scientists at the Tavernier Science Center are uniquely positioned to study Florida Bay and the backcountry of Everglades National Park.

Read more about the bonefish study here, and to learn more about Audubon’s research in the Everglades, visit RestoreFloridaBay.org.