Galapagos bullhead sharks can be individually identified by the unique spot pattern on their body. Help us by taking photos or videos of the bullhead sharks. We can then match the individual pattern of the shark on your images to the individuals already in our database, or add your shark as a new individual.
You can upload files from your computer and other devices, or take them directly from your Flickr or Facebook account. Be sure to enter when and where you saw the bullhead shark, and add other information, such as sex, if you can. You will then receive email updates when your shark is processed by a researcher.
When you submit a bullhead shark identification photo or video, our researchers receive a notification. The researchers will then double check the information you submitted to ensure it is correct.
Once a researcher is happy with all the data accompanying the identification photo, they will run our photo-identification algorithm. The algorithm is like facial recognition software for bullhead sharks and measures and identifies the constellation of spots on each shark photo.
The algorithm provides researchers with a ranked selection of possible matches. Researchers will then visually confirm a match to an existing bullhead shark in the database, or create a new bullhead profile.
7 identified individuals
37 reported encounters
8 contributors
“Bullheads.org is an interactive platform which will catalyze our research efforts, by actively involving the public to maximize the collection of scientific data while educating and empowering next generation conservationists.” - Max Hirschfeld, Project Leader
I want to know moreIf you are not exploring the ocean right now, there are still other ways to get engaged
Donations, including in-kind, large or small, are always welcome. Your support helps the continued development of our project and can support effective, science-based conservation management, and safeguard these animals and their habitat.
Learn more about how to donate