July 2009 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

new publication on dusky dolphin fission-fusion dynamics
by heidipearson＠tamu.edu 12 Jul '09

12 Jul '09

The following paper has just been published in Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology (Online First version): Pearson, H.C. Influences on dusky dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) fission-fusion dynamics in Admiralty Bay, New Zealand. doi:10.1007/s00265-009-0821-7 Abstract: In societies characterized by a high degree of fission-fusion dynamics, individuals adjust their grouping patterns according to the shifting balance of costs and benefits associated with grouping. This study examines influences on fission-fusion dynamics for dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) in Admiralty Bay, New Zealand. This area is an important foraging habitat for dusky dolphins during the winter and spring. Admiralty Bay has little predation risk, but nearshore mussel farms may infringe on available habitat. I used generalized estimating equations to determine the influences of coordinated foraging, predation risk, and presence of mussel farms on party size, rate of fission-fusion, and behavioral state. I conducted 168 boat-based group focal follows totaling 168 h. The proportion of individuals observed foraging was positively related to party size and rate of party fusion. Resting had no effect on party size and did not vary according to location. Near mussel farms, traveling decreased, and rate of party fission decreased. I conclude that (1) coordinated foraging strategies are a primary influence on fission-fusion dynamics within this population, (2) dolphins may respond to decreased predation risk by not adjusting party size or location during resting, and (3) areas near mussel farms are not used for traveling. You may download the full article by visiting SpringerLink at http://www.springerlink.com/openurl.asp?genre=article&id=doi:10.1007/s00265…. Alternatively, you may e-mail me at heidipearson(a)tamu.edu to request a pdf. Heidi Pearson, PhD Assistant Director and Stranding Coordinator The Whale Center of New England 24 Harbor Loop P.O. Box 159 Gloucester MA, 01930, USA ph: 978-515-5001 fax: 978-281-5666 www.whalecenter.org

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2009 IMATA Conference, Atlanta GA
by tttrainr＠aol.com 10 Jul '09

10 Jul '09

MARMAM subscribers: The annual conference of the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association (IMATA) will be held 2 – 6 November 2009 in Atlanta, GA. - Conference registration and paper/abstract submission are available online at www.imata.org. - Discounted registration is available for registrations received by 31 August 2009. For more information, please visit the conference tab of IMATA's web site at www.imata.org. Regards, Michael Hunt IMATA President

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JOB POSTING-BIOLOGIST POSITION, NEWPORT, RI
by Campbell, Ryan J CIV NUWC NWPT 10 Jul '09

10 Jul '09

BIOLOGIST POSITION The Naval Undersea Warfare Center located in Newport Rhode Island is seeking qualified candidates with environmental planning, marine biology, and management skills to serve as a lead in support of various U.S. Navy environmental planning projects. Job tasks will be geared towards the needs of Fleet/NAVSEA customers and teaming with other Navy service providers for biological analyses, marine species monitoring, and overall compliance with NEPA, EO12114, ESA, MMPA, CZMA. Individuals selected for these positions will directly support environmental planning for U.S. Navy. Individuals will team with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) within the Marine Resources Support Group (MRSG) to support the U.S. Fleet Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and NAVSEA Commands. The MRSG is a group of Navy biologists, scientists, and environmental planners who have particular expertise or experience in environmental planning and regulatory compliance in the marine environment. The incumbent will prepare and review marine related documentation including endangered species and marine mammal consultation packages, Environmental Assessments (EAs)/Overseas Environmental Assessments (OEAs), Categorical Exclusions (CATEXs), mitigation and monitoring plans, and related special environmental studies or technical reports assessing the environmental impacts of proposed Navy actions involving at-sea operations, training, and testing. The incumbent selected will be expected to participate in consultations with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), coordinate projects with a multi-disciplinary team, and participate in project management for research and compliance documents. Experience or knowledge of the following is highly desirable: project management; marine mammals; sea turtles; principals of underwater acoustics; statistical principles and methods; ESRI GIS products; environmental legislation and DoD/Navy policy. This is not a field biologist position, but there are numerous opportunities for travel. The positions are located onsite at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division in Newport, Rhode Island and are open to all U.S. citizens. OPEN PERIOD: Thursday, July 09, 2009 - Thursday, July 23, 2009 USAJOBS links: http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=82051200&JobTitle=Biologist &sort=rv&vw=d&brd=3876&ss=0&FedEmp=N&FedPub=Y&q=Biologist+Newport%2c+RI& AVSDM=2009-07-09+07%3a37%3a00 For questions about this job please contact the NUWC Recruitment Office, Phone: 401-832-1017, email: patricia.johnson.3(a)navy.mil

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Students - Don't forget to apply for an SMM Biennial Conference Student Travel Grant!
by Lynne Williams 10 Jul '09

10 Jul '09

* Students - Don't forget to apply for an SMM Biennial Conference Student Travel Grant! � For students planning on attending the upcoming SMM Biennial Conference in Quebec City in October 2009, don't forget that the deadline for applying for a student travel grant is this Sunday, July 12th, 2009.� Remember, to qualify for this grant, you need to: 1) make sure you are a current SMM student member at the time of submission, 2) be currently enrolled as a student at a recognized academic institution, 3) be first author on an accepted oral or poster presentation, and 4) register for the conference by the early registration deadline.� (You are allowed to apply for a student travel grant before you find out if your abstract is accepted; I will make sure everyone on the final application list has an accepted abstract, though, which may require removing some names at which point you will be notified.)� Notification of the student travel grant awards will be made no later than Wednesday, July 15th, 2009.� If you are granted an award, you will need to make sure you register for the conference by the end of the early registration period (July 20th, 2009) or the award will be granted to someone else. � More information on the upcoming Biennial Conference can be found on the Society for Marine Mammalogy's website (http://www.marinemammalogy.org/) � � Thanks! Lynne Williams, SMM Student Member-at-Large 135 Duke Marine Lab Rd. Beaufort, NC 28516 lynnee.williams(a)duke.edu

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Abstracts - Aquatic Mammals, vol 35(2), 2009
by Dagmar Fertl 09 Jul '09

09 Jul '09

Dear Marmam and ECS-mail subscribers, Apologies to those of you who will get duplicate emails due to cross-posting. The following are abstracts from the most recent issue of Aquatic Mammals, the scientific peer-reviewed journal of the European Association for Aquatic Mammals (EAAM). Abstracts are presented as a courtesy to the EAAM and the journal editors – Drs. Jeanette Thomas (managing editor; aquaticmammals(a)gmail.com) and Kathleen Dudzinski (co-editor; kdudzinski(a)dolphincommunicationproject.org) The journal publishes papers dealing with all aspects of the care, conservation, medicine and science of aquatic mammals. The journal receives support of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association (IMATA). For more information on the journal, please go to: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/. Contact information is provided for the corresponding author for each article. Please do not contact the listserve editors or me for pdfs or copies of the articles. Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and these postings. With regards, Dagmar Fertl Ziphius EcoServices dfertl(a)gmail.com http://www.ziphiusecoservices.com Winter, A.,* R. J. Foy, & K. Wynne. 2009. Seasonal differences in prey availability around a Steller sea lion haulout and rookery in the Gulf of Alaska. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):145-162. * E-mail: awinter(a)vt.edu Abundance and distribution of fish biomass were surveyed around a Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) haulout (nonbreeding) and rookery (breeding) site in the Gulf of Alaska to test the hypothesis that seasonal occupation of either site was related to the availability of prey. The haulout and rookery are located 30 nmi (55.56 km) apart at Long Island and Marmot Island in the Central Gulf of Alaska region where the Steller sea lion population is slowly recovering from a severe decline. Surveys conducted in May and November of 2002 (just before and after the breeding season) showed significantly higher prey energy density (total fish biomass density × energy content; kJ nmi-2) around the Long Island haulout than around the Marmot Island rookery. A survey conducted in July of 2002 (during breeding season) showed prey energy densities that were not significantly different between Long Island and Marmot Island but that were more concentrated in a single area by Marmot Island. Major prey species groups in all surveys were arrowtooth flounder, walleye pol-lock, cod, and soles; all are known prey of Steller sea lions in this area. Steller sea lion counts at Long Island during nonbreeding seasons from 2000 to 2004 correlated significantly with midwater prey energy densities. Steller sea lion counts at Marmot Island over the same period did not correlate with midwater prey energy densities in either breeding or nonbreeding seasons. The results of the study indicate that prey availability may be an important factor in the choice of haulout sites by Steller sea lions, and the higher prey availability at rookery sites provides some advantage. ******************************************* Schaefer, M.,* J. S. Reif, J. D. Goldstein, C. N. Ryan, P. A. Fair, & G. D. Bossart. 2009. Serological evidence of exposure to selected viral, bacterial, and protozoal pathogens in free-ranging Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from the Indian River Lagoon, Florida, and Charleston, South Carolina. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):163-170. * E-mail: aschaefer(a)hboi.fau.edu Sera from free-ranging Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Indian River Lagoon, Florida (IRL) (n = 122), and the estuarine waters near Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) (n = 82) were collected from 2003 to 2007 and analyzed for antibodies to several bacterial and viral pathogens. Serological evidence of exposure to Chlamydophila psittaci; Eastern, Western, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis viruses; and West Nile virus represents the first reports of these pathogens in cetacean populations. Antibodies to Eastern and Venezualan encephalitis viruses and to West Nile virus were detected only in IRL dolphins. Positive titers to Toxoplasma gondii and Brucella abortus (rivanol and card tests) were identified in dolphins from both locations. The prevalence of antibodies to Brucella spp. on the card test was significantly higher in bottlenose dolphins sampled in the IRL compared to the CHS location. This study establishes baseline seroprevalence for several zoonotic pathogens in these two populations. ******************************************* Hawkins, E.R.* & D. F. Gartside. 2009. Patterns of whistles emitted by wild Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) during a provisioning program. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):171-186. E-mail: elizabeth.hawkins(a)scu.edu.au To facilitate and coordinate the complexities of fission-fusion societies, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) have developed a multilayered acoustic communication system to effectively transmit signals in the marine environment. Among the many acoustic emissions produced by dolphins, whistles are thought to play a major communicative role. Little is understood about the functions of the diverse whistle repertoire of wild bottlenose dolphins and the influence human activities can have on these sounds. This study provides a detailed investigation into the use and diversity of whistles by a group of eight wild bottlenose dolphins that participate in a provisioning program at Tangalooma, Moreton Island, Australia. Acoustic recordings and concurrent behavioural observations were made during evening feeding sessions. Behaviours were divided into three activities: (1) milling, (2) scanning/foraging (excluding human provisioning), and (3) socialising. Pod separation occasions were also examined. Whistles were classified as either stereotyped or nonstereotyped and divided into five tonal classes based on the shape of the fundamental frequency: (1) sine, (2) up-sweep, (3) down-sweep, (4) flat, and (5) concave. Whistles were then catalogued into distinct whistles types. From 943 min of recordings, 5,682 whistles were analyzed that then were catalogued into 68 distinct whistle types of which 18 were stereotyped and 50 were nonstereotyped. The repetition rate (x = 1.12 whistles per min per dolphin [w/m/d]; SD = 0.61) and diversity of whistles varied between feeding sessions but were not related to the number of dolphins. Distinct whistle types were divided into common or uncommon categories to facilitate correspondence analysis to examine associations between whistles and behaviour activities. Results showed that around 38% of common whistles and 84% of uncommon whistles were closely associated with behaviour activities, particularly socialising and scanning/foraging. Sine whistles were the only tonal class associated with pod separation. This study provides further evidence of the communicative functions of whistles across the repertoire of wild bottlenose dolphins. **************************************************************** Lanyon, J.M.*, H. L. Sneath, J. R. Ovenden, D. Broderick, & R. K. Bonde. 2009. Sexing sirenians: Validation of visual and molecular sex determination in both wild dugongs (Dugong dugon) and Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris). Aquatic Mammals 35(2):187-192. * E-mail: j.lanyon(a)uq.edu.au Sexing wild marine mammals that show little to no sexual dimorphism is challenging. For sirenians that are difficult to catch or approach closely, molecular sexing from tissue biopsies offers an alternative method to visual discrimination. This paper reports the results of a field study to validate the use of two sexing methods: (1) visual discrimination of sex vs (2) molecular sexing based on a multiplex PCR assay which amplifies the male-specific SRY gene and differentiates ZFX and ZFY gametologues. Skin samples from 628 dugongs (Dugong dugon) and 100 Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) were analysed and assigned as male or female based on molecular sex. These individuals were also assigned a sex based on either direct observation of the genitalia and/or the association of the individual with a calf. Individuals of both species showed 93 to 96% congruence between visual and molecular sexing. For the remaining 4 to 7%, the discrepancies could be explained by human error. To mitigate this error rate, we recommend using both of these robust techniques, with routine inclusion of sex primers into microsatellite panels employed for identity, along with trained field observers and stringent sample handling. ************************************************ Mellor, L., L. N. Cooper*, J. Torre, R. L. Brownell, Jr. 2009. Paedomorphic ossification in porpoises with an emphasis on the vaquita (Phocoena sinus). Aquatic Mammals 35(2):193-202. E-mail: l.noelle.cooper(a)gmail.com Heterochrony, the change in timing of developmental processes, is thought to be a key process shaping the numerous limb morphologies of tetrapods. Through a delayed offset in digit development, all cetaceans (i.e., whales, dolphins, and porpoises) have evolved supernumary phalanges (hyperphalangy). Moreover, some toothed cetaceans further alter digital morphologies by delayed endochondral and perichondral ossification of individual elements. In the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), these paedomorphic patterns have created poorly ossified phalangeal elements. However, no studies have addressed this morphology in other porpoise taxa. This study documents the timing of carpal and digital epiphyseal ossification in the poorly studied vaquita (Phocoena sinus) based on radiographs (n = 18) of known-age specimens. Patterns of vaquita manus ossification were compared between other porpoise and delphinid taxa. Adult vaquitas are paedomorphic in carpal, metacarpal, and digital development as they maintain a juvenile ossification pattern relative to that of other porpoise species of equivalent ages. Vaquitas also ossify fewer carpal elements as compared to other porpoise and some delphinid cetaceans, and ossification arrests relative to that of the harbor porpoise. Vaquitas also display sexual dimorphism as females reach a greater body size and display more ossified elements in the manus relative to their paedomorphic male cohorts *********************************************** Haarr, M.L., L. D. Charlton, J. M. Terhune*, & E. A. Trippel. 2009. Harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) presence patterns at an aquaculture cage site in the Bay of Fundy, Canada. Aquatic Mammals 35(2): 203-211. E-mail: terhune(a)unbsj.ca Finfish aquaculture is a prominent industry in the Bay of Fundy, Canada. The distribution of harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) in the Bay during the summer and fall may be impacted by the presence of offshore cages or the activities of workers on the site. Harbour porpoise presence near and within an aquaculture cage site was studied using visual observations during the summer of 2006 and by monitoring echolocation signals using T-PODs during the summer and autumn of 2006 and 2007. At least one harbour porpoise was sighted per hour 61% of the time among or near the cages. Porpoise occasionally surfaced within the cage site when workers were present. Mother-calf pairs used the within-cages area proportionately more than adults and juveniles. The porpoise were temporarily displaced by high disturbance activities such as cage cleaning with pressure hoses, but quickly returned to the area when the disturbance ended. Echolocation activity was lowest during the day, increased in the evening, and peaked between midnight and dawn. This pattern was evident on the offshore and inshore side of the cages and, to a lesser extent, at a non-aquaculture location farther along the coastline (2007 only). In August of both years, the echolocation patterns were similar, even though in 2007 there were no fish in the cages and much less worker activity than in 2006 when all 15 cages contained Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Echolocation activity near a T-POD typically lasted for no more than 10 min or for at least 1 h, suggesting that the porpoise were either passing by the area or staying to feed, respectively. The presence of the aquaculture cage site under study did not appear to be displacing harbour porpoise from the area except during short intervals when high disturbance activities such as a food delivery by barge or cage cleaning were occurring. *********************************************** Webster, T. A.*, S. M. Dawson, & E. Slooten. 2009. Evidence of sex segregation in Hector’s dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori). Aquatic Mammals 35(2):212-219. *E-mail: trudi.webster(a)xtra.co.nz Segregation by sex is evident at a variety of levels in many birds, fishes, and mammals. Segregation has been observed in marine mammals to varying degrees, but it was previously undocumented in Hector’s dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori). Forty-three groups (of group size ≤ 5) were sexed using an underwater pole-camera; 91% of groups consisting of two to five individuals (n = 32) were either all male or all female. Sexes were obtained from an additional seven groups containing calves. All of the adults associating with mothers and their young were female. This research suggests that Hector’s dolphin groups are highly segregated by sex. Sex segregation might have implications for reproduction in Hector’s dolphins, including difficulty in finding a mate as local populations decline. *********************************************** Yu, J. Y. Sun, & Z. Xia. 2009. The rescue, rehabilitation, and Release of a Stranded Finless Porpoise (Neophocaena phocaenoides sunameri) at Bohai Bay of China. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):220-225. E-mail address: drxia(a)126.com A stranded female west Pacific finless porpoise (Neophocaena phocaenoides sunameri) was found in the shallows of Bohai Bay, China, on 30 March 2008. It was moderately dehydrated. After transportation to Beijing Aquarium, medical treatment and rehabilitation were conducted. Under microscopic examination, the ova of Nasitrema spp. and Zalophotrema hepaticum were found in the feces. This is a new host record for the trematodes Nasitrema spp. and Z. hepaticum infecting a finless porpoise. Antibiotics were administered to prevent secondary infection, while supportive therapies, including fluid and electrolyte supplements, were provided. The porpoise was released on 6 June 2008, approximately 18.5 km offshore in Xingang, Tianjin, China. This is the first report of a rescue, rehabilitation, and release of a stranded marine mammal in Bohai Bay, China. ********************************************* Fudge, D.S.*, L. J. Szewciw, & A. N. Schwalb. 2009. Morphology and development of blue whale baleen: An annotated translation of Tycho Tullberg’s classic 1883 paper. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):226-252. *no email address provided with article. Address: Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada Herein we present an annotated translation of the classic paper by Tycho Tullberg on the structure and development of baleen in blue whales. The three blue whale fetuses on which this study was based were obtained from a whaling station in Norway during a time when blue whales were still abundant enough to support a whaling industry. The value of this text for the modern reader is that it provides a glimpse into the mechanisms of development of baleen in the largest rorqual whale, which is something that modern biologists are unlikely to be able to replicate for a long time. Tullberg’s careful morphology, histology, and developmental thinking provide a coherent account of how the elaborate baleen racks develop from simple epidermal and dermal origins. The figures, which we have reproduced here, are superb and provide a rare window into the morphology of blue whale baleen at three fetal stages. The histology is excellent for its time and provides insights into the various keratin tissue phases that make up the baleen plates and bristles as well as the enigmatic Zwischensubstanz that acts as a spacer and possible shock-absorber between plates. ********************************************* Silva, F. M. O., J. E. Vergara-Parente, J. K. N. Gomes, M. N. Teixeira, F. L. N. Attademo, & J. C. R. Silva. 2009. Blood chemistry of Antillean manatees (Trichechus manatus manatus): Age variations. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):253-258. E-mail: fernanda.pxboi(a)gmail.com The Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) is the most endangered aquatic mammal in Brazil. Sampling blood data from such critically endangered marine mammal species is extremely challenging. Although several hematological studies have been developed for captive manatees, captivity studies addressing the environmental and physiological effects on blood values are scarce. The present work describes blood biochemistry values for captive Antillean manatee adults and calves and verifies the occurrence of possible physiological adjustments due to age, sex, and dietary influences. Blood from 13 clinically healthy manatees (eight calves and five adults) were analyzed for 13 blood serum chemistry parameters using a semi-automatic analyzer. Descriptive analysis was performed for all parameters, and differences between sex and age were determined. Calves had higher means of urea (6.29 ± 5.58 mg/dL), total proteins (5.07 ± 0.94 g/dL), globulin (3.06 ± 1.32 g/dL), and alanine aminotransferase (6.19 ± 2.18 U/mL), levels, and lower means of creatinine (1.42 ± 0.64 mg/dL), aspartate aminotransferase (7.24 ± 3.21 U/mL), phosphate (3.03 ± 1.63 mg/dL), and uric acid (0.71 ± 0.17 g/dL) than adults. Further studies are necessary, especially when considering handling and alimentary management in captivity, to provide important data for better monitoring and clinical management of manatees. ***************************************************** Hawkins, E. R., & D. F. Gartside. 2009. Interactive behaviours of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) during encounters with vessels. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):259-268. E-mail: elizabeth.hawkins(a)scu.edu.au Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops spp.) are one of the most frequently encountered cetaceans in coastal regions and form the focus of a growing commercial dolphin-watching industry. Bottlenose dolphins are renowned for approaching and interacting with vessels. By obtaining information on the occurrence of interactive behaviours, further insight into the influence of vessel encounters on dolphins can be gained. This research examined the interactive behaviours (defined as bow-riding, wake-riding, and sustained approaches) displayed by Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in the presence of different vessel types (motor vessel or sailing yacht) in a region with relatively low levels of commercial dolphin-based tourism activities. The patterns of acoustic emissions produced during these interactions were also recorded. Results indicated that a relatively small proportion of the population displayed interactive behaviours (22% of groups observed). Of the groups that displayed interactive behaviours, 59% contained at least one calf, and most were engaged in the behavioural state of milling (36%). The vessel type (p < 0.05) and vessel activity (p < 0.05) both significantly influenced the occurrence of interactive behaviour of the dolphins. More interactions per hour occurred with the motor vessel (0.32) compared to the yacht (0.26). The mean duration of interactions was 3 min (SD = 9.07). During interactions with vessels, dolphins emitted a diverse repertoire of whistles with a high repetition rate suggesting that either the group cohesion was affected or that there were higher levels of excitation. It is recommended that monitoring the levels and types of interactive behaviours of dolphins during vessel encounters may be useful to ensure that dolphin-watching activities do not negatively impact social cohesion and long-term survival of dolphin populations. ****************************************************** Rivamonte, L. A. 2009. Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) double-slit pupil asymmetries enhance vision. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):269-280. E-mail: lorenzo.andre.rivamonte(a)us.army.mil Geometries of the iris, retinal cell distributions, and the optical characteristics of the lens and cornea have evolved to optimize the visual adaptations of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) to the oceanic environment. Under high ambient light conditions, the operculum of the iris shields the lens and forms two asymmetrical slit pupils. Under these conditions, light entering the eye is channeled and focused onto the two areas of the retina having a finer retinal mosaic of ganglion cells (typically associated with higher image resolution). The paths of light determined by tracing rays in the reverse direction through these pupils coincide with a dolphin’s behaviorally observed preferred viewing directions. These rays aid in determining the interdependence between the graininess of the retinal mosaic and resolution spot sizes in the object space. For oblique forward and downward viewing directions in air, the larger temporal pupil admits light which passes through the weakly refractive margin of a bifocal lens, counterbalancing the optically strong cornea in air. In water, light passing through the optically strong lens core is focused from a wide lateral and downward field-of-vision. Although other explanations for comparable aerial and underwater vision remain plausible, a dolphin eye model incorporating a bifocal lens offers an explanation consistent with ophthalmoscopic refractive state measurements. The model is also consistent with visual acuity study results conducted in air and in water under both high and low ambient light levels. From insight gained after applying a common data analysis technique to visual acuity studies conducted by other researchers and tracing oblique rays through the asymmetric double-slit pupils, a re-examination of explanatory hypotheses for the paradoxical observations of comparable aerial and underwater vision is presented. Based in part on these findings and supportive evidence from dolphin vision researchers, the unique distinguishing characteristics of dolphin vision are summarized. ************************************** Melillo, K. E.*, K. M. Dudzinski, & L. A. Cornick. 2009. Interactions between Atlantic spotted (Stenella frontalis) and bottlenose (Tursiops truncatus) dolphins off Bimini, The Bahamas, 2003-2007. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):281-291. *E-mail: kmelillo(a)dolphincommunicationproject.org Interspecific interactions have been observed in a variety of social animals. Functional explanations include foraging, anti-predatory, and social advantages. These behaviors are poorly understood in marine mammals but are increasingly studied phenomena in sympatric populations. Resident Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) off Bimini, The Bahamas, have been the subject of ongoing photo-identification and behavioral studies since 2001. A lesser-known population of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) has been observed interacting with these S. frontalis since 2003. To examine the functional significance of these interactions, interspecific behaviors were documented with underwater video using focal animal sampling. Mating or sexual play were the primary activities observed in nearly 50% of interactions, with male T. truncatus as the initiators. Therefore, the most likely functional explanation for these interactions is social. We hypothesize that male T. truncatus which lack access to T. truncatus females because of sexual immaturity or low social status seek copulations with S. frontalis females as an alternative. **************************************** Perrin, W. F.* 2009. Historical perspectives - Early days of the tuna/dolphin problem. Aquatic Mammals 35(2):292-305. *E-mail: william.perrin(a)noaa.gov Dr. Bill Perrin is with the National Marine Fisheries Service’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center. Much of his research has involved dolphins: life history, population and community ecology, and behavioral and fishing-gear research to reduce mortality. His article recounts the earlier days of the tuna/dolphin problem in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. ************************************************ Bloch, D. & B. Mikkelsen. 2009. A northernmost record of dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima) (Owen, 1866) from the Faroe Islands. Aquatic Mammals 35(2): 306-307. No email address was provided; Faroese Museum of Natural History, Fútalág 40, FO-100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands This was a letter to the editor of the journal. In summary, on 28 March 2008, a dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima) was observed swimming in the vicinity of the village of Haraldsund, close to the embankment between Borðoy and Kunoy. The position of the locality is 62.27° N, -7.00° W, and with a depth of 20 to 25 m. The letter provides further details and is supported by photographic evidence. _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live™: Keep your life in sync. http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_BR_life_in_synch_062009

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CDC can assist in sealpox diagnosis and request for information about recent sealpox virus infections in pinnipeds or humans
by Roess, Amira A. (CDC/CCID/NCZVED) 08 Jul '09

08 Jul '09

> <<MARAM draft_8July09.doc>> > > > June 29, 2009 > > Dear MARMAM members: > > We are seeking information on cases of sealpox that have occurred in > recent years at locations worldwide. Sealpox is a zoonosis which > principally affects seals and sea lions and is caused by viruses in > the genus Parapoxviridae. > > Because this virus can also affect humans the Centers for Disease > Control and Prevention (CDC) is interested in learning about recent > sealpox virus infections in wildlife or humans. Additionally, CDC > laboratories can assist in providing diagnostic evaluation of > suspected sealpox virus infections in humans or wildlife. > > Sealpox has been identified in many pinniped species (see list below) > and is most often seen in younger animals. Infected animals usually > have 1-3 cm firm skin nodules on head, neck and thorax. Nodules can > spread to abdomen, flippers, and mucosa or oral cavity, and can be > solitary or in clusters. The infected area can be inflamed or > necrotic. Lesions usually heal within a few weeks without treatment > and leave a slightly raised gray scar without fur. > > The sealpox virus is transmittable to humans who have contact with > infected animals and often presents as lesions on the hands (which is > sometimes mistaken for 'seal finger') in marine rehabilitation > workers. > > Please contact the Poxvirus and Rabies Branch/CDC with questions about > the infection in humans or information you have on recent sealpox > infection (mreynolds3(a)cdc.gov, aroess(a)cdc.gov or 404-639-4129). > > Thank you for your interest, > > Amira Roess, PhD, MPH > aroess(a)cdc.gov, aroess(a)gmail.com > > > Mary Reynolds, PhD, MPH > Nzr6(a)cdc.gov > > 404-639-5278 > 404-639-4129 > > Poxvirus and Rabies Branch > Centers for Disease Control and Prevention > 1600 Clifton Road NE > MS G43 > Atlanta, GA 30333 > > Pinniped species with known sealpox infections: > -Gray Seals > -Harbor Seals > -Northern Fur Seals > -Northern Elephant Seals > -California Sea Lion > -Stellers Sea Lion > -South America Sea Lion > > > > >

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New publication
by Simon Allen 07 Jul '09

07 Jul '09

Dear friends and colleagues, We are pleased to notify you of our recent publication in Marine Ecology Progress Series. The short essay is a contribution to the forthcoming theme section 'Acoustics in marine ecology' (http://www.int-res.com/journals/meps/theme-sections/forthcoming-theme-secti…) but has broader application to impact assessment and research beyond acoustics and including terrestrial ecology. The pre-press abstract is available at http://www.int-res.com/prepress/m07979.html or you can request the full PDF from either of us. This paper is dedicated to our dearly missed co-author, the late Dr. Amy Samuels. Kind regards, Lars (l.bejder(a)murdoch.edu.au) and Simon (s.allen(a)murdoch.edu.au) ---------- Bejder, L., Samuels, A., Whitehead, H., Finn, H. and Allen, S. (2009). Impact assessment research: use and misuse of habituation, sensitisation and tolerance in describing wildlife responses to anthropogenic stimuli. Marine Ecology Progress Series. doi: 10.3354/meps07979 ABSTRACT: Studies on the effects of anthropogenic activity on wildlife aim to provide a sound scientific basis for management. However, misinterpretation of the theoretical basis for these studies can jeopardise this objective and lead to management outcomes that are detrimental to the wildlife they are intended to protect. Misapplication of the terms 'habituation', 'sensitisation' and 'tolerance' in impact studies, for example, can lead to fundamental misinterpretations of research findings. Habituation is often used incorrectly to refer to any form of moderation in wildlife response to human disturbance, rather than to describe a progressive reduction in response to stimuli that are perceived as neither aversive nor beneficial. This misinterpretation, when coupled with the widely held assumption that habituation has a positive or neutral outcome for animals, can lead to inappropriate decisions about the threats human interactions pose to wildlife. We review the conceptual framework for the use of habituation, sensitisation and tolerance, and provide a set of principles for their appropriate application in studies of behavioural responses to anthropogenic stimuli. We describe how cases of presumed habituation or sensitisation may actually represent differences in the tolerance levels of wildlife to anthropogenic activity. This distinction is vital because impact studies must address (1) the various mechanisms by which differing tolerance levels can occur; and (2) the range of explanations for habituation and sensitisation-type responses. We show that only one mechanism leads to true behavioural habituation (or sensitisation), while a range of mechanisms can lead to changes in tolerance. KEY WORDS: Habituation · Sensitisation · Tolerance · Human disturbance · Wildlife management · Conservation · Impact assessment ---------- Simon Allen Research Fellow, Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit Centre for Fish and Fisheries Research School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology Murdoch University South St., Murdoch Western Australia 6150 mob: +61(0) 416 083 653 ph: +61(0)8 9360 2823 fax: +61(0)8 9360 6303 email: s.allen(a)murdoch.edu.au web: http://www.cffr.murdoch.edu.au/mucru/simon_allen.html

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NMFS Take Reduction Team (TRT) Coordinator - VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
by Lisa VanAtta 07 Jul '09

07 Jul '09

TAKE REDUCTION TEAM (TRT) COORDINATOR NOAA Fisheries Service's Pacific Islands Regional Office is currently accepting applications for a Take Reduction Team (TRT) Coordinator. The person filling this position will ensure Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIRO) compliance with statutory authorities pertaining to take reduction teams, including implementation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) Section 118, coordinating efforts with the Office of Protected Resources, Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, the State of Hawaii, and other partners and stakeholders. The person filling this position will also: lead PIRO responsibilities for MMPA take reduction rulemaking, permitting, and coordination with co-managers/stakeholders; serve as PIRO lead on cetacean Take Reduction Issues; and develop PIRO's cetacean take reduction program. The deadline to apply is July 17, 2009. For more information regarding duties, evaluations, and applications, please refer to www.usajobs.gov. The job announcement number is: NMF-PIR-2009-0015. The agency contact is Barbara Schloetter, barbara.w.schloetter(a)noaa.gov . NMFS Pacific Islands Regional Office's Protected Resources Division is dedicated to protecting and recovering endangered and threatened species of sea turtles, monk seals and cetaceans as mandated by the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). Through management, conservation and recovery efforts as well as public outreach and education, the program strives to ensure the recovery and survival of the protected marine species of the Pacific Islands Region for future generations. More information is available at www.fpir.noaa.gov Thank you for your interest - Lisa Van Atta Assistant Regional Administrator Protected Resources Division Pacific Islands Regional Office NOAA Fisheries Service 1601 Kapiolani Blvd, Suite 1110 Honolulu, Hawaii 96814 alecia.vanatta(a)noaa.gov

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Job Announcement - US Fish and Wildlife Service Walrus Program Supervisor
by Rosa_Meehan＠fws.gov 07 Jul '09

07 Jul '09

Walrus Program Supervisor Position Available US Fish and Wildlife Service Marine Mammals Management Program Anchorage, Alaska APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL: Friday, August 07, 2009 For more information, please contact: Rosa Meehan Division Chief, Marine Mammals Management Email: rosa_meehan(a)fws.gov _ _ _ _ _ _ The Marine Mammals Management Program of the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking a highly motivated and conservation oriented individual to lead the Walrus Program. The office is responsible for the conservation and management of Pacific walrus, polar bears, and sea otters and the goal is to maintain these marine mammal populations as healthy, functioning component of the marine ecosystem. The program takes an ecosystem approach to management, carried out through the cooperative efforts of many partners. Management and research efforts are coordinated at the local, state and international level. Current challenges focus on understanding the effects of climate change, notably the extreme retreat of sea ice, on the ice-dependent species and developing appropriate management strategies. Additional information about the program is at: http://alaska.fws.gov/fisheries/mmm/index.htm The ideal candidate will have a background in population biology and arctic marine ecology, ability to work with people, and skills needed to provide leadership to highly motivated and independent professionals. Minimum requirements include at least one year of specialized experience and an advanced degree in biological sciences. For additional information, see the job announcement on USA Jobs: http://jobview.usajobs.gov/getjob.aspx?jobid=81297752 The full time position is located in Anchorage, Alaska. Some travel is required, including international travel as well as travel to meetings and for field work within the State. Salary is at the GS 13 level and is commensurate with qualifications and previous government experience. See job announcement for details. Applications must be submitted through USA Jobs, details can be accessed through the Job Announcement listed above or by going to: http://jobsearch.usajobs.opm.gov and searching by title (Supervisory Wildlife Biologist GS-486-13) and agency (FWS). For further information about the FWS, please go to: http://www.fws.gov/

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July 20th is the early registration deadline for the SMM 18th Biennial Conference in Quebec City
by Gosselin, Jean-Francois 07 Jul '09

07 Jul '09

July 20th is the early registration deadline for the SMM 18th BIENNIAL CONFERENCE ON THE BIOLOGY OF MARINE MAMMALS Save between $25 US and $120 US by taking advantage of the early registration which will remain open until July 20th. This is only 2 weeks away! Please note that July 20th will also be the early registration deadline for exhibitors and vendors. For those of you who have submitted an abstract, results about acceptance of submissions will be announced on July 10th, in time to benefit from the early registration rates. For students looking for some support, travel grant applications will be accepted until July 12th. You can find all the information related to the conference and registration on the website: http://conference.marinemammalogy.org. Registration is done online using a single transaction with credit card or Paypal. Optional extras, such as banquet tickets, dinner cruise on the St Lawrence River and the Conference Poster by Pieter Folkens, Marine Mammals from the Northern Cryosphere, can also be purchased online through separate transactions. Don't forget to look under the Program tab, to find out and register to the 23 workshops and symposia that will be held at the Quebec Conference Centre on October 10th and 11th. If you don't already know, the 18th biennial conference will be held at the Quebec Convention Centre (http://www.convention.qc.ca) in Quebec City, Canada from October 12th to 16th 2009. It is a nice time to visit Quebec City that celebrated its 400th Anniversary in 2008 (http://www.quebecregion.com) Jean-François Gosselin 18th Biennial Conference registrar congres_smm2009(a)dfo-mpo.gc.ca

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