Field Informatics for Co-existence between Human Beings and Endangered Species: Sea Turtles, Mekong Giant Catfish and Dugongs

Abstract

We are performing the Southeast Asia sea turtle associative research (SEASTAR2000), the Mekong giant catfish tracking project (MCTP) and the dugong biological survey (DBS) as part of the 21st Century Center of Excellence (COE) Program (2002-2007) and the Global COE Program (2007-2012). All the species of the projects are heavily endangered and need sufficient degree of protection. They are listed in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Appendix I. However, very little is known of the species whilst the implementation of their conservation is a pressing problem in Thailand and neighboring ASEAN countries. Field informatics with bio-logging including satellite telemetry, ultrasonic telemetry, GPS and advanced data-loggers will be a powerful tool to clarify the ecology of the endangered species in order to realize co-existence between human beings and the endangered species.