Armando Ubeda, a Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent, will present on shark behavior and conservation, sharing insights from his research on sustainable fisheries, marine resource conservation, and his extensive background in marine science and ecology. Start the new year by exploring one of nature’s most fascinating predators and discovering what we can do—right here in our community—to ensure their future.

Topic Highlight: Horseshoe Crabs 

Enjoy fresh coffee and pastries courtesy of The Dearborn Coffeehouse & Bakery while learning how you can support local conservation efforts.

Speaker Spotlight: Armando J. Ubeda

Armando J. Ubeda serves as the Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent at UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County. His work supports marine resource conservation, living shorelines, sustainable fisheries, water quality initiatives, and more. With experience as a coral reef researcher in Nicaragua, a biologist at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Shark Research Department, and a conservation program manager in the Mesoamerican region, Armando brings a broad, hands-on perspective to protecting coastal ecosystems.

He holds a bachelor’s in marine sciences, a master’s in marine resource management, and has completed graduate-level studies in marine ecology, crocodile ecology, and environmental impact assessment. A Fulbright scholar and recipient of multiple marine science research awards, Armando is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the University of Florida, with a focus on shark behavior and population structure.

Learn more about Florida Sea Grant:
https://www.flseagrant.org