Seeking ghost shark secrets

The spotted ratfish presents a unique opportunity for studying a benthic shark. At Friday Harbor and in other parts of the Washington coast, this typically deep-sea species ventures into shallower waters to lay its eggs. I am locating these nursery sites to establish a more comprehensive record of its population and natural history. My curiosity extends to examining its embryonic development, unravelling the process by which ratfish develop their distinctive traits and predicting potential environmental influences. Our typical research days involve ventures onto the water, either aboard marine research vessels to collect population data and egg cases or utilising remotely operated vehicles to film and explore the seabed. Back in the lab, I process tissue to extract genetic and cellular information about growth and development. The footage captured by the remotely operated vehicles helps us to compare the habitats of different nursery sites, enabling us to craft interactive virtual reality exhibits that enable viewers to engage with ratfish, even from land.