Dear Dr. Wright -
I just wanted to say hi. Hi!
Every school year at this time I show the New Explorer's episode on Manatees. I love it because it allows my students to see real scientists doing real science in a way they can relate to.
Two questions - there is a scene where they appear to be siphoning the sick manatee through the mouth. Was this to clear out the stomach, or the lungs?
Also, if it is not too much trouble, can you send me your autograph? Either on a photo, or on a copy of one of your science articles? I would like to add you to my science educators hall of fame. Thanks!
Sincerely,
Robert R.
Hi Mr. Roundtree, Wow what an honor!! Thank you very much, you are very kind! If I recall correctly the scene you are referring to is manatees being intubated into their stomach to administer fluids. Hydration (administering fluids, water, nutrients, and sometimes medication) was a good way to help manatees recover more quickly from exposure to red tide toxin. The increase in fluids in the stomach and bowel lessened (perhaps diluted) the affects of the toxin. It seemed to help the animals recover.
I have attached a picture I hope that you can use. I am about to do a necropsy on this elk which is infected with Chronic Wasting Disease. The woman in the photo with me is Dr. Cynthia Tate. If you cannot use this pic, please let me know. Here is my sig, you should be able to enlarge it if you need to. Good luck with your class and thank you for leading the charge in training the nation's future scientists.
Scott D. Wright, Ph.D.
Branch Chief, Disease Investigations
USGS National Wildlife Health Center
6006 Schroeder Road
Madison, Wisconsin 53711
608-270-2460
608-270-2415 FAX
608-209-3757 Cell
swright@usgs.gov
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