Tuna (broadcast Friday, September 5th, 2008)

See how tuna are tagged. (Credits: Courtesy of Randy Kochevar) See More Videos

It's one of the biggest, fastest, and warmest fish in the sea -- and it's also one of the most sought after, and one of the most threatened. In this segment, Ira and guests talk tuna, from its natural history to its commercial role. Can bluefin tuna stocks around the world be saved, and can people's almost insatiable appetite for bluefin tuna be met? And can science help? Author Richard Ellis, author of the book "Tuna: A Love Story," joins us to talk about the future of tuna around the world. We'll also hear from marine researcher Barbara Block about 'biologging,' the use of electronic sensors, implanted or attached to animals, to track and record their movements, behaviors, physical setting and physiological state in the wild. Can these electronic tracking methods help preserve the tuna? Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.