Troy DeDecker

E-Mail: dedecker@sonofsun.sdsu.edu

Education

B.S. Biology, University of Utah, 1995
Marine Mammal Research Program Intern, Texas A&M University, 1995
M.S. Animal Behavior, San Diego State University

Cetacean Research Experience

After graduating from the University of Utah in 1995, I decided that an internship with a marine mammal research program would help me gain the experience and knowledge needed to continue my education in field biology. My experience at the Marine Mammal Research Program at Texas A&M University at Galveston surrounded me with excellent academic mentors, field and laboratory research, and uncountable learning opportunities. Under the direction of Dr. Bernd Würsig and Dr. Dave Weller, I participated in the ongoing study of the behavioral ecology of bottlenose dolphins in Texas coastal waters. Concurrent with my MMRP internship, I also became a volunteer member of the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network. I found the time spent caring and rehabilitating live stranded dolphins truly rewarding, and I saw how the knowledge gained from both living and dead marine mammals can augment our understanding of marine biology.

Current Research

I am currently using photoidentification methodology to study the occurrence patterns and social structure of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the offshore waters around Catalina Island. Dorsal fin photographs, field estimates of school size and the number of calves, sightings location, and pertinent environmental data are collected during boat-based surveys of the island. Data collected in this research will be used to provide an evaluation of the occurrence, distribution, range, site fidelity, movement patterns, population size estimates, and social organization and affiliation patterns of bottlenose dolphins in this region. This research is among the first-of-its-kind for offshore bottlenose dolphins, and will provide data needed for comparisons with nearby coastal dolphins and with delphinids from other geographic locations.

Personal

I enjoy spending time with my wife, Rona, and my daughter Karissa. I also participate in the following activities on a spiritual level: snowboarding, surfing, rock/ice climbing, backpacking, and scuba diving.

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Last updated on 10/06/98.