Pop-up Archival Transmitting (PAT) tags are designed to track the large-scale movements and behavior of fish and other animals which do not spend enough time at the surface to allow the use of real-time satellite tags. As with traditional satellite tags, the PAT utilizes the Argos system for relaying summaries of the data collected. However, the data are transmitted at the end of the deployment when the tag detaches from the subject animal on a user-specified date.

Since PAT tags can yield data without the animal being recaptured, they offer a fisheries-independent means of tracking a target species. In addition, a full archival record is maintained in non-volatile memory. Thus, should the PAT be recovered, you will be able to retrieve the same detailed data as are collected by a conventional archival tag. A surprising number of PAT tags have been recovered by beachcombers and fisheries personnel.

The PAT tag is attached to the animal via a tether. Generally, the researcher determines the best tether design and attachment method.

While PAT tags have been used for a variety of applications, they were designed and are best-suited for medium to large fish. These tags are designed to transmit from an unobstructed ocean surface. Locations where overhanging reefs, kelp beds or marine debris occur may result in reduced transmitter performance. The anticipated deployment environment should be considered when evaluating the appropriateness of this technology. PAT tags have been successfully deployed on a variety of species, including tuna, marlin, and sharks, as well as swordfish and sea turtles.

Products

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Mk10-PAT Pop-up Archival Transmitting Tag [more info]

Our Popup Archival Transmitting (Mk10-PAT) tag is a sophisticated combination of archival and Argos satellite technology. It is designed to track the large-scale movements and behavior of fish and other animals which do not spend enough time at the surface to allow the use of real-time Argos satellite tags.

The Mk10-PAT adds the Wildlife Computers Cricket Argos transmitter to the standard Mk10 archival tag. A bouyant body and a corrodible pin allows the release of the Mk10-PAT from the fish so data can be transmitted.

The standard Mk10-PAT direct U.S. price is $3500.

Animals

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Sharks & Fishes

Tags for sharks and fishes have been part of the Wildlife Computers family of products for many years. There are currently several tag types and configurations available. These include implantable archival tags that must be recovered and pop-up tags that release at predetermined times and transmit data to the Argos satellites. For fish that occasionally come to the surface, fin-mounted transmitters can provide Argos geographical position estimates. For animals that are not easily restrained, towed tags can be attached by harpooning or darting onto the dorsal surface. (Note: Not all types of tags are available in all configurations.)

Turtles

Turtle researchers are successfully using the full complement of Wildlife Computers products in the field. We have designed several configurations especially for turtle tagging and would be happy to help you select what best suits your animal. Attachment devices such as base plates are also available for some configurations.

Cetaceans

Wildlife Computers tags have been used on both large and small cetaceans. These animals surface frequently but generally are not recaptured, nor do they return to predictable locations. Transmitting tags are therefore most appropriate for these species. For smaller species that can be restrained, we have developed a variety of fin-mounted configurations. For larger species, dart or harpoon attachment techniques have been developed by various researchers. We have produced highly-specialized custom-designed tags to fit individual project needs. In addition, we now offer tags utilizing Fast-GPS and pop-up technologies. Archival tags have also been used in cetacean research when mounted on a bouyant housing and attached by suction. The detached housings are then retrieved for data download. (Note: Not all types of tags are available in all configurations.)

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