science and conservation

Since 2005 Fred works all over the world to assist and documents the work of leading marine scientist, organizations and conservation initiatives during field expeditions .

He is specialized in shark tagging and marine mammals video/acoustic work, sharing his extensive experience with researchers. Freediving is a valuable asset to perform these tasks, allowing silent approach and daylong stay in the water.

-From 2005 to 2018 Fred participated to 5 shark tagging expeditions in Malpelo Island, Colombia. Scalloped hammerhead sharks were the main focus of the tagging program. The results helped to extend protection in the waters surrounding Malpelo as well as coastal Colombian areas where female hammerhead sharks were giving birth. Eventually Malpelo was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The site is known to be one of the only accessible place in the world to host the Ferox Shark aka small tooth sand tiger (Odontaspis xerox). We could place acoustic and satellite tags on several individuals, making it a world first. These campaigns were organized by the Malpelo Foundation lead by Sandra Bessudo.

-From 2009 to 2019 participation to great white shark tagging program in Guadalupe Island, Mexico with Pelagios Kankunja and Dr Mauricio Hoyos.