November 2009 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Marine Mammal Scientist and Passive Acoustic Monitoring System (PAMS) Operational Technician Vacancies
by Nick Robinson 26 Oct '10

26 Oct '10

Gardline Environmental Ltd is a member of the Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of Companies and are a successful Environmental contractor, operating a fleet of inshore boats, conducting major integrated offshore projects on a worldwide basis and inshore projects for major clients in the UK and overseas. As part of our continued growth there are immediate vacancies for the following positions: PAMS OPERATIONAL TECHNICIAN As a PAMS Operational Technician you will be responsible for the maintenance, despatch and receipt of all PAMS equipment. In addition, you will be expected to keep up to date with national and international development of PAMS and implement accordingly. Applicants will ideally be of degree calibre or equivalent in a relevant discipline and possess a full comprehension with the technical composition and use of PAMS. Ideally the candidate would have an understanding of marine mammals, their biology and identification and previous marine survey experience would be advantageous. MARINE MAMMAL SCIENTIST Reporting to the current Marine Wildlife Business Manager, you will be expected to undertaken and develop the application of marine mammal observations, monitoring and recording systems, the compilation and preparation of reports and the processing of observational data and possess a sound knowledge marine mammals, their biology and identification. Ideally you will be of degree calibre or equivalent, and demonstrate the ability to lead and develop projects from implementation to completion and illustrate sound commercial awareness. You will need to be a confident individual with a can do attitude and enjoy being challenged. Previous relevant marine oil and gas or renewable energy industry experience is advantageous. Both positions require the individual to spend in the region of 60 days at sea, dependent on project requirements, with the remaining time being office based (Great Yarmouth). As well as a competitive salary, these roles also include offshore allowances and a range of employee benefits, such as; personal and professional development, a further range of employee benefits and world wide travel opportunities. To apply for these positions please email your CV and covering letter to Allan Tucker, Recruitment Officer on recruitment(a)gardline.com. Closing date: 8th April 2009 Nick Robinson ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this message in error and that any dissemination, copying or use of this message or attachment is strictly forbidden, as is the disclosure of the information therein. If you have received this message in error please notify the sender immediately and preserve this confidentiality by deleting the message. No binding contract will result from this e-mail until and unless an officer, on behalf of the sender, signs a written document. Sender accepts no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of this message as it has been transmitted over public networks. Unless otherwise specifically stated any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the sender Company.

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Information on Amazon Pink River Dolphin (Inia geoffrensis)
by David Bonnett 30 Nov '09

30 Nov '09

I have been recording the underwater sounds made by Inia geoffrensis over the last 3 years in the Peruvian Amazon. I have a number of recordings covering acoustic frequencies up to about 46 KHz and have observed some sounds from the dolphins that I have not found reported in the literature. I am looking for advice from anyone that has studied river dolphins or might put me in contact with someone who has. My goal is to determine if it is feasible to develop an acoustic analysis system that will supplement traditional census counts of these animals in the wild. Thank You David E. Bonnett 2374 NW Mountain View Road Silverdale, Wa 98383 Cell : 360 710 4963 Home: 360 779 3850 d-bonnett(a)wavecable.com

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Re: [MARMAM] Job advertisement - Senior Research Manager at Earthwatch
by Debbie Winton 30 Nov '09

30 Nov '09

I would like to apologise that the information below was missed on the posting regarding the Senior Research Manager position at Earthwatch: A full job description can be found at http://www.earthwatch.org/europe/get_involved/jobs/ Application deadline: 3-00pm 23rd. December 2009, with interviews planned to take place on w/c 25th. January 2010 To apply, please send a CV and covering letter to Dave Davies, HR Manager at ddavies(a)earthwatch.org.uk All applicants must have the relevant visa to work in the UK. No help can be given for any visa applications. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:54:43 -0000 From: "Debbie Winton" <dwinton(a)earthwatch.org.uk> Subject: [MARMAM] Job advertisement - Senior Research Manager at Earthwatch To: <marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca> Message-ID: <0BDA954190B0344B82FD28336B41D1C502AE1F31(a)exchangesrv1.earthwatchewe.lan> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Senior Research Manager, Oceans £38,453 - £42,453 Earthwatch Institute is an international environmental non-profit organization which supports around 80 field research projects in over 35 countries. The International Research team at Earthwatch develops and supports field research projects in collaboration with a wide range of external scientists and other stakeholders. Summary of role The Senior Research Manager is expected to develop a world class research program based on public participation with a primary focus on oceans ecosystems. This program is expected to promote action and understanding to: * Enhance the sustainability of oceans and associated ecosystems, and provide regional and local ecosystem services. * Protect critical habitat and species, to enhance biodiversity. The Senior Research Manager will be responsible for: * Implementation and oversight of field research programs, with a primary focus on Oceans research projects * Delivery on funded programs and securing of significant additional funding for the associated research programs. * Maintenance of a strong network of scientists and research institutions to ensure the field research and scientific outputs of the Earthwatch supported programs have highest impact. * Enhance and expand capacity development activities to support scientists. * Disseminate and communicate research findings to key audiences, including general public and policy makers. * Reporting and evaluation of research programs. As a member of a global team of Earthwatch scientists, the Senior Research Manager is also responsible for supporting the implementation of all activities within Earthwatch's International Research Program, such as communications and capacity development. The Senior Research Manager will report to the International Director of Research, who is responsible for overseeing and implementing Earthwatch's International Research Program. The Senior Research Manager will be based in Oxford, UK and have senior responsibility for administration of the Research Department activities (e.g. budget, business planning) at the Oxford office. Specific SENIOR Research Manager Oceans responsibilities Implementation and Oversight of the Research Programs * Manage the existing portfolio of research projects for delivery of project outcomes, successful Scientist stewardship and Earthwatch Measures of Success (MoS). * Further develop the Oceans programs by recruiting new prospective researchers and helping to secure additional funding to support new projects. Develop and deliver funded programs * Lead and support initiatives to secure funding for projects and programs for successful development of the Research programs. * Deliver key research program objectives for relevant funded projects. * Support the development of a business case for PA support and soliciting feedback from Development, Corporate, and Volunteer recruitment teams on project support. Research and conservation partnership development * Build a strong coalition of partners with NGOs, research institutions and key decision makers (in Governments and statutory agencies in project locations/regions) to enhance delivery of Oceans programs. * Contribute to International conventions and major international organizations for the Oceans program (e.g. CBD, Ramsar, IUCN, UNESCO). * Ensure effective delivery of key outcomes to agendas, and management plans; contribution to major International Initiatives for the PA; contribute to legacy in project communities. Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting * Support the implementation of Organizational Measures of Success for Oceans programs. * Produce an annual assessment and report on achievements on Oceans against MoS and Initiative goals. * Support updating and development of reporting systems for Earthwatch scientists. Research program capacity development * Support implementation of scientist training grants, and identification of opportunities for capacity development programs. External communications and events * Publications and presentations at key regional and international meetings * Support general communication with Earthwatch scientists and partners, including input for Research web pages, production of posters, annual lecture series, and development of specific position and/or policy papers. * Support the development and implementation of RA communications plan for internal and external audiences, including verbal, written, and visual methods to communicate results. Organizational * Support the creation and delivery of Programs for Education and Engagement. * Support programs to reduce environmental impact of Earthwatch activities. ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES * Evidence of conducting own research on oceans, including appropriate scientific/environmental doctorate, or equivalent experience. Individuals with a wider interest in freshwater systems as well are encourage to apply. * Evidence of competency in developing programs that actively engage people in field research * Evidence of knowledge of major global environmental issues with a focus on oceans * Significant project management experience, including management of budgets, planning, and reporting * Evidence of strong leadership abilities * Track record of securing funding from a variety of sponsors, and experience of collaboration or involvement with the corporate sector is an advantage. * Evidence of effective networking and the establishment of partnerships that have led to the creation of new programs and generation of funds. * Excellent interpersonal and communication skills including public speaking and science writing, including evidence of a sustained output of publications and presentations * Experience using web-based technology and new social media to network and communicate an advantage * Negotiation and influencing skills, and a flexible approach which responds to the challenges of change. * Demonstrable personal effectiveness in setting standards, reaching solutions and completing tasks for multiple concurrent projects. * Act under own initiative and also work effectively in teams; good staff management skills. Debbie Winton Research Officer Earthwatch Institute 256, Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DE, UK. Tel: 00 44 (0)1865 318805 Fax: 00 44 (0)1865 311383 E-mail: dwinton(a)earthwatch.org.uk <mailto:dwinton@earthwatch.org.uk> Website: www.earthwatch.org/europe <http://www.earthwatch.org/europe>

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Urgent: volunteers needed for seal rehab centre Pieterburen, the Netherlands
by Lenie 't Hart 29 Nov '09

29 Nov '09

The SRRC Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre Lenie 't Hart in Pieterburen, the Netherlands, needs urgently: *Volunteers who are experienced in handling, tube feeding and force-feeding ill juvenile harbour seals and grey seal pups.* These animals in rehabilitation need intensive care treatment because of their problems (mostly lung worms and other problems with respiratory tracks). The SRRC is at this moment overcrowded with in total more than 160 harbour seals. What we need is: experienced helpers to work together with the staff of the SRRC to carry out tube feeding and force feeding to many tens of seals several times per day. If you have experience with those activities and those species, and if you are available in the coming two or three months, please contact the SRRC Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre and ask for Lenie 't Hart. What we can offer: - Reimbursement of travel expenses - (Fine) food and lodging at the centre - A good atmosphere with an enthusiastic international group of colleagues SRRC Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre Hoofdstraat 94a 9968 AG PIETERBUREN The Netherlands Phone: (31) 595 - 526 526 Fax: (31) 595 - 528 389 Email: lenie(a)zeehondencreche.nl Website: www.zeehondencreche.nl <http://www.zeehondencreche.nl/> English website : www.srrc.nl -- Lenie 't Hart Algemeen directeur / General director Stichting Zeehondencrèche Lenie 't Hart Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre SRRC Hoofdstraat 94a, 9968 AG Pieterburen, The Netherlands Phone SRRC:(31) 0595 - 526 526 Fax SRRC: (31) 0595 - 528 389 Mobile phone:(31) 06 - 51 - 587774 Website: www.zeehondencreche.nl Website English: www.srrc.nl _________________________________________________________________ The information transmitted is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer.

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New publications on North Atlantic whale abundance
by Daniel Pike 29 Nov '09

29 Nov '09

Hello I would like to announce the recent publication of the following 2 papers in *NAMMCO Scientific Publications* Volume 7, North Atlantic Sightings Surveys: Counting whales in the North Atlantic, 1987-2001. The volume is available at www.nammco.no, and pdf reprints are available from me at kinguq(a)gmail.com. Regards, Daniel Pike. Gunnlaugsson, Th., Víkingsson, G.A. and Pike, D.G. 2009. Combined line-transect and cue-count estimate of sperm whale abundance in the North Atlantic, from Icelandic NASS-2001 shipboard survey. NAMMCO Sci. Publ. 7:73-80. Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) pose a particular problem to shipboard surveys as they dive for extended periods and are therefore likely to be missed (not available) even if they are right under the track line. To address these problems the NAMMCO planning committee for the NASS 2001 survey drew up guidelines to be followed when sperm whales were sighted. This required every deep dive to be recorded and considered to be a cue, from which a cue-count estimate is calculated if the cue rate is known. For those whales that did not dive before coming abeam, a conventional line-transect estimate is calculated, which gives an instantaneous surface estimate from which a total estimate can be obtained if the proportion of the time spent at the surface is known. These estimates are compared and combined. Precise dive cycle information is missing for the mostly single all male sperm whales in this area but a preliminary estimate of 11,185 (cv 0.34) is obtained for the surveyed area with an assumed surface time of 20% and two deep dives per hour. Borchers, D.L., Pike, D.G., Gunnlaugsson, Th. and Víkingsson, G.A. 2009. Minke whale abundance estimation from the NASS 1987 and 2001 aerial cue–counting surveys taking appropriate account of distance estimation errors. NAMMCO Sci. Publ. 7:95-110. We estimate the abundance of minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) from the Icelandic coastal shelf aerial surveys carried out as part of the 1987 and 2001 North Atlantic Sightings Surveys (NASS). In the case of the 1987 survey, the probability of detecting animals at distance zero (g(0)) is very close to 1 but there is substantial random measurement error in estimating distances. To estimate abundance from these data, we use methods which assume g(0)=1 but which include a distance measurement error model. In the case of the 2001 survey, measurement errors were sufficiently small to be negligible, and we use double platform methods which estimate g(0) and assume no measurement error to estimate abundance. From the 1987 survey, we estimate abundance to be 24,532 animals, with 95% CI (13,399; 44,916). From the 2001 NASS survey data, minke whale abundance is estimated to be 43,633 animals, with 95% CI (30,148; 63,149).

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Health and pollutions studies on harbour seals
by Antje Kakuschke 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Dear all, two new publications to harbour seals of the North Sea are now available. One study investigated the influence of mercury on the immune system and the second study is a basic health study to the acute phase protein haptoglobin. For further information see abstracts below. Do not hesitate to contact me, if you would like to get further details to these studies. Mail please to: antjekakuschke(a)web.de. Best wishes Antje Kakuschke Kakuschke, A., Valentine-Thon, E., Fonfara, S., Kramer, K., Prange, A. Effects of methyl-, phenyl-, ethylmercury and mercurychlorid on immune cells of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina). Journal of Environmental Sciences 21(2009) 17161721. Abstract: Mercury (Hg) is present in the marine environment as a natural metal often enhanced through human activities. Depending on its chemical form, Hg can cause a wide range of immunotoxic effects. In this study, the influence of methyl-, ethyl- and phenylmercury as well as mercurychloride on immune functions was evaluated. Two parameters of cellular immunity, proliferation and mRNA cytokine expression of interleukin-2, -4, and transforming growth factor, were investigated in harbor seal lymphocytes after in vitro exposure to Hg compounds. While all Hg compounds had a suppressive effect on proliferation, differences between juvenile and adult seals were found. Lymphocytes from juveniles showed a higher susceptibility to the toxic effect compared to lymphocytes from adults. Furthermore, the degree of inhibition of proliferation varied among the four Hg compounds. The organic compounds seem to be more immunotoxic than the inorganic compound. Finally, for the cytokine expression of methylmercury-incubated lymphocytes, timedependent changes were observed, but no dose-dependency was found. Marine mammals of the North Sea are burdened with Hg, and lymphocytes of harbor seals may be functionally impaired by this metal. The present in vitro study provides baseline information for future studies on the immunotoxic effects of Hg on cellular immunity of harbor seals. Kakuschke, A., Erbsloeh, H.-B., Griesel. S., Prange, A. Acute phase protein haptoglobin in blood plasma samples of harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) of the Wadden Sea and of the isle Helgoland. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology, Part B 155 (2010) 6771. Abstract: Haptoglobin (Hp) which is synthesized in response to infection, inflammation, trauma or toxicological damage is known as a major acute phase protein in numerous species. Quantification of the circulating concentration of this protein can provide an objective measure of the health status, but there is a lack of investigations on harbour seals. We investigated the Hp concentration in samples of 123 seals (Phoca vitulina) from the German and Danish Wadden Sea to study physiological ranges of Hp levels. Hp levels between 2002, the end of the phocine distemper virus epidemic (PDV), and 2007 were considered, and Hp concentrations between animals of different sex, ages as well as living areas were compared. Furthermore, as a case study, six animals from the open sea isle Helgoland were investigated in 2006. Influences on the health status of the seal population e.g. the PDV epidemic were reflected by increased Hp levels in North Sea seals in 2002. The results of the Wadden Sea seals showed no significant age-, sex-, or geographical area-related differences. Interestingly, for the seals of the open sea isle Helgoland higher Hp values were measured compared to the Wadden Sea seals. The present study demonstrates that Hp can be used as a diagnostic tool to monitor the health status of harbour seals. ___________________________________________________________ Preisknaller: WEB.DE DSL Flatrate für nur 16,99 Euro/mtl.! http://produkte.web.de/go/02/

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Job advertisement - Senior Research Manager at Earthwatch
by Debbie Winton 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

Senior Research Manager, Oceans £38,453 - £42,453 Earthwatch Institute is an international environmental non-profit organization which supports around 80 field research projects in over 35 countries. The International Research team at Earthwatch develops and supports field research projects in collaboration with a wide range of external scientists and other stakeholders. Summary of role The Senior Research Manager is expected to develop a world class research program based on public participation with a primary focus on oceans ecosystems. This program is expected to promote action and understanding to: * Enhance the sustainability of oceans and associated ecosystems, and provide regional and local ecosystem services. * Protect critical habitat and species, to enhance biodiversity. The Senior Research Manager will be responsible for: * Implementation and oversight of field research programs, with a primary focus on Oceans research projects * Delivery on funded programs and securing of significant additional funding for the associated research programs. * Maintenance of a strong network of scientists and research institutions to ensure the field research and scientific outputs of the Earthwatch supported programs have highest impact. * Enhance and expand capacity development activities to support scientists. * Disseminate and communicate research findings to key audiences, including general public and policy makers. * Reporting and evaluation of research programs. As a member of a global team of Earthwatch scientists, the Senior Research Manager is also responsible for supporting the implementation of all activities within Earthwatch's International Research Program, such as communications and capacity development. The Senior Research Manager will report to the International Director of Research, who is responsible for overseeing and implementing Earthwatch's International Research Program. The Senior Research Manager will be based in Oxford, UK and have senior responsibility for administration of the Research Department activities (e.g. budget, business planning) at the Oxford office. Specific SENIOR Research Manager Oceans responsibilities Implementation and Oversight of the Research Programs * Manage the existing portfolio of research projects for delivery of project outcomes, successful Scientist stewardship and Earthwatch Measures of Success (MoS). * Further develop the Oceans programs by recruiting new prospective researchers and helping to secure additional funding to support new projects. Develop and deliver funded programs * Lead and support initiatives to secure funding for projects and programs for successful development of the Research programs. * Deliver key research program objectives for relevant funded projects. * Support the development of a business case for PA support and soliciting feedback from Development, Corporate, and Volunteer recruitment teams on project support. Research and conservation partnership development * Build a strong coalition of partners with NGOs, research institutions and key decision makers (in Governments and statutory agencies in project locations/regions) to enhance delivery of Oceans programs. * Contribute to International conventions and major international organizations for the Oceans program (e.g. CBD, Ramsar, IUCN, UNESCO). * Ensure effective delivery of key outcomes to agendas, and management plans; contribution to major International Initiatives for the PA; contribute to legacy in project communities. Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting * Support the implementation of Organizational Measures of Success for Oceans programs. * Produce an annual assessment and report on achievements on Oceans against MoS and Initiative goals. * Support updating and development of reporting systems for Earthwatch scientists. Research program capacity development * Support implementation of scientist training grants, and identification of opportunities for capacity development programs. External communications and events * Publications and presentations at key regional and international meetings * Support general communication with Earthwatch scientists and partners, including input for Research web pages, production of posters, annual lecture series, and development of specific position and/or policy papers. * Support the development and implementation of RA communications plan for internal and external audiences, including verbal, written, and visual methods to communicate results. Organizational * Support the creation and delivery of Programs for Education and Engagement. * Support programs to reduce environmental impact of Earthwatch activities. ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES * Evidence of conducting own research on oceans, including appropriate scientific/environmental doctorate, or equivalent experience. Individuals with a wider interest in freshwater systems as well are encourage to apply. * Evidence of competency in developing programs that actively engage people in field research * Evidence of knowledge of major global environmental issues with a focus on oceans * Significant project management experience, including management of budgets, planning, and reporting * Evidence of strong leadership abilities * Track record of securing funding from a variety of sponsors, and experience of collaboration or involvement with the corporate sector is an advantage. * Evidence of effective networking and the establishment of partnerships that have led to the creation of new programs and generation of funds. * Excellent interpersonal and communication skills including public speaking and science writing, including evidence of a sustained output of publications and presentations * Experience using web-based technology and new social media to network and communicate an advantage * Negotiation and influencing skills, and a flexible approach which responds to the challenges of change. * Demonstrable personal effectiveness in setting standards, reaching solutions and completing tasks for multiple concurrent projects. * Act under own initiative and also work effectively in teams; good staff management skills. Debbie Winton Research Officer Earthwatch Institute 256, Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DE, UK. Tel: 00 44 (0)1865 318805 Fax: 00 44 (0)1865 311383 E-mail: dwinton(a)earthwatch.org.uk <mailto:dwinton@earthwatch.org.uk> Website: www.earthwatch.org/europe <http://www.earthwatch.org/europe>

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data exploration paper
by Highland Statistics Ltd. 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Members of MARMAN involved in data analysis may be interested in the following paper: A protocol for data exploration to avoid common statistical problems (2009). Alain F. Zuur, Elena N. Ieno and Chris S. Elphick. Methods in Ecology and Evolution. Abstract: 1. While teaching statistics to ecologists, the lead authors of this paper have noticed common statistical problems. If a random sample of their work (including scientific papers) produced before doing these courses were selected, half would probably contain violations of the underlying assumptions of the statistical techniques employed. 2. Some violations have little impact on the results or ecological conclusions; yet others increase type I or type II errors, potentially resulting in wrong ecological conclusions. Most of these violations can be avoided by applying better data exploration. These problems are especially troublesome in applied ecology, where management and policy decisions are often at stake. 3. Here, we provide a protocol for data exploration; discuss current tools to detect outliers, heterogeneity of variance, collinearity, dependence of observations, problems with interactions, double zeros in multivariate analysis, zero inflation in generalized linear modelling, and the correct type of relationships between dependent and independent variables; and provide advice on how to address these problems when they arise. We also address misconceptions about normality, and provide advice on data transformations. 4. Data exploration avoids type I and type II errors, among other problems, thereby reducing the chance of making wrong ecological conclusions and poor recommendations. It is therefore essential for good quality management and policy based on statistical analyses. http://methodsblog.wordpress.com/2009/11/13/first-paper-now-online/?utm_sou… Kind regards, Alain Zuur -- Dr. Alain F. Zuur First author of: 1. Analysing Ecological Data (2007). Zuur, AF, Ieno, EN and Smith, GM. Springer. 680 p. URL: www.springer.com/0-387-45967-7 2. Mixed effects models and extensions in ecology with R. (2009). Zuur, AF, Ieno, EN, Walker, N, Saveliev, AA, and Smith, GM. Springer. http://www.springer.com/life+sci/ecology/book/978-0-387-87457-9 3. A Beginner's Guide to R (2009). Zuur, AF, Ieno, EN, Meesters, EHWG. Springer http://www.springer.com/statistics/computational/book/978-0-387-93836-3 Other books: http://www.highstat.com/books.htm Statistical consultancy, courses, data analysis and software Highland Statistics Ltd. 6 Laverock road UK - AB41 6FN Newburgh Tel: 0044 1358 788177 Email: highstat(a)highstat.com URL: www.highstat.com URL: www.brodgar.com

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Study endangered killer whales in 2010
by Scott Veirs, Beam Reach 24 Nov '09

24 Nov '09

Please forward this under/graduate field research opportunity to your students and friends: Get off-campus and study wild killer whales for 10 weeks next spring or fall! Apply now to conduct your own research with the Beam Reach Marine Science and Sustainability School. Beam Reach is for you if you want to: -- study endangered orcas and the salmon they eat -- use advanced bioacoustic tools in your own project -- network with experts in killer whale conservation -- learn to sail a biodiesel-electric catamaran -- explore the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest -- earn 18 credits from the University of Washington Check it out at: http://beamreach.org?mrmt11/24/2009 We are currently accepting applications for the Spring 2010 program (March 29 - June 05) and Fall 2010 program (August 23 - October 30). To apply you should have completed your first year of college, be interested in the marine environment, and want to spend 10 weeks off-campus in an intensive field research experience. Start your adventure! Complete this simple application form: http://www.beamreach.org/apply.html?mrmt11/24/2009 Upcoming dates for review of complete applications are Dec. 7 and Jan 4. Let us know if you have any questions! Dr. Scott Veirs info(a)beamreach.org Recent publication: Holt, et al. (2009) Killer whales increase their call amplitude in response to vessel noise http://www.orcasphere.net/2008/12/11/killer-whales-call-louder-as-vessel-no… ______________________________________________________________ Beam Reach | Marine Science and Sustainability School www.beamreach.org | 206.251-5554 7044 17th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98115 If you don't want to receive emails from us, please reply with unsubscribe in the subject line and we'll remove you right away.

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paper on new pinniped virus
by Elsa Maria Coria Galindo 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

Dear MARMAM members: I am glad to announce the publication of a paper about a new pinnped virus appeared in the Journal of Wildlife Diseases: E.Coria-Galindo,E. Rangel-Huerta, A. Verdugo-Rodrıguez and D.Brousset. 2009. ROTAVIRUS INFECTIONS IN GALAPAGOS SEA LIONS.Journal of Wildlife Diseases 45(3): 722–728. ABSTRACT: Group A rotaviruses infect and cause diarrhea in the young of a broad range of terrestrial mammals, but it is unknown, to our knowledge, whether they infect marine mammals. During February and March of 2002 and 2003, we collected 125 serum samples and 18 rectal swab samples from Galapagos sea lion pups (GSL, Zalophus wollebaeki), and 22 serum samples from Galapagos fur seal pups (GFS, Arctocephalus galapagoensis) from nine islands of the Galapagos archipelago, Ecuador. Sera were tested for antibodies (immunoglobulin G [IgG]) to rotavirus by an enzyme immunoassay using rhesus rotavirus as the capture antigen. In addition, rectal swabs were analyzed for the presence of rotavirus genomic double-stranded RNA by silver-stained polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Antibodies to rotavirus were detected in 27 GSL pups (22%) and five GFS pups (23%), and rotavirus RNA was detected in the fecal sample from one GSL pup (6%). These results provide the first evidence that rotavirus infections are prevalent at an early age in Galapagos sea lions and Galapagos fur seals. For more information contact DVM Elsa Maria Coria-Galino: coriagalindo(a)yahoo.com.mx Encuentra las mejores recetas en Yahoo! Cocina. http://mx.mujer.yahoo.com/cocina/

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