October 2010 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Paper: Stable isotope analysis reveals unique trophic niches for two globally threatened species
by Ana Pinela 18 Oct '10

18 Oct '10

To whom it may concern: The following paper has been published in this month's issue of Marine Ecology Progress Series: Stable isotope analysis reveals habitat partitioning among marine mammals off the NW African coast and unique trophic niches for two globally threatened species. A. M. Pinela, A. Borrell, L. Cardona, A. Aguilar MEPS 416:295-306 (2010) - doi:10.3354/meps08790 Abstract: Stable isotope abundances of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) in the bone of 13 species of marine mammals from the northwest coast of Africa were investigated to assess their positions in the local trophic web and their preferred habitats. Also, samples of primary producers and potential prey species from the study area were collected to characterise the local isotopic landscape. This characterisation indicated that δ13C values increased from offshore to nearshore and that δ15N was a good proxy for trophic level. Therefore, the most coastal species were Monachus monachus and Sousa teuszii, whereas the most pelagic were Physeter macrocephalus and Balaenoptera acutorostrata. δ15N values indicated that marine mammals located at the lowest trophic level were B. acutorostrata, Stenella coeruleoalba and Delphinus sp., and those occupying the highest trophic level were M. monachus and P. macrocephalus. The trophic level of Orcinus orca was similar to that of M. monachus, suggesting that O. orca preys on fish. Conservation of coastal and threatened species (M. monachus and S. teuszii) off NW Africa should be a priority because these species, as the main apex predators, cannot be replaced by other marine mammals. Here is the link to the Abstract page: http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v416/p295-306/ If you are interested in a reprint please write to one of these e-mail addresses: ana.pinela(a)gmail.com or anapinela(a)ub.edu Thank you very much in advance. Best regards, Ana Pinela Ana Pinela, Ph.D. Candidate University of Barcelona Faculty of Biology Dpt. Animal Biology Av. Diagonal 645 08028 Barcelona Spain

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Internships are requested to study bottlenose dolphins (Sardinia island, Italy)
by Bruno Diaz 16 Oct '10

16 Oct '10

Hi everyone, on behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI, I am pleased to announce that our centre is currently accepting internships applications for the Winter-Spring term (a minimum of 60 days of participation between February - June 2011) in Sardinia Island, Italy. BDRI's researchers are engaged in the conduction of a long term study about the ecology and behaviour of wild unrestrained bottlenose dolphins and the potential effects of human activities (fisheries, aquaculture and tourism) in their distribution and behaviour. An internship period with the BDRI offers an invaluable exposure to boat based field work,marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine biology. Undergraduate and postgraduate students could present their BDRI's personal research project as their Thesis if requested with the application. Internships can be used for academic or vocational purposes, but students are solely responsible for making all arrangements for receiving relevant credit(s) as a result of completing the internship. Interns can expect to participate in and learn a variety of facets of marine mammal research as research assistants in four diverse research projects: 1. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin's repertorie and communication use: Knowledge of how individuals within a population communicate and what they are communicating can generate information ranging from measures of habitat use, social relevance, geographical variation, cultural transmission to genetic fitness that can be applied to conservation. Although many vocalizations have been before described in the literature, their association with specific behaviours linked with human activities provides additional contextual information about their potential use as communication signals. 2. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins societies project: We will take and analyse identification photos, study group structure and composition to refine details of dolphin societies and responses to human activities at sea. Volunteers assist with data collection onboard helping to locate, photograph and keep track of bottlenose dolphin groups. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse photos and transcribe data collected. 3. Human activities & Dolphins: how to use ecosystem models to address the impacts caused by the interactions. An ecosystem modelling approach becomes an interesting tool to examine the impact of fisheries and aquaculture on bottlenose dolphins and vice versa. Within the many types of software available, Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) is a reliable and convenient tool to examine the long-term responses of bottlenose dolphins to human induced changes in system energy flow and biomass. Mass-balance models are built to characterize the role of dolphins in a coastal ecosystem conditioned by human activities. 4. "Large whales & Dolphins off Sardinia Island" Data are collected from multiple platforms including shore and research vessel based platforms. The behaviour and distribution of large cetaceans (fin whales and sperm whales) observed off Sardinia is still unknown. While some animals could be in migration between the Ligurian and Thyrrenian Sea others could be mainly engaged in foraging activities. There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research camp (Sardinia, Italy). As a number of students are unemployed people are unable to meet ourprogram and travel costs, BDRI has developed a financial resource to support some of them. There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Start and end dates are flexible. Positions are open until filled. Successful candidates will be ready and willing to learn, self-motivated, and flexible. Prior field research experience is recommended but not required. Please download the internships general information at:www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdfand the application from:www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationinternships.rtf Send cover letter or inquiries by email to the Research Chief, Mr. Bruno Diaz Lopez, at info(a)thebdri.com. Please indicate in your cover letter the dates you are available. Selected scientific publications by BDRI: 1. Díaz López B., in press. Whistle characteristics in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Mediterranean Sea: influence of behaviour. Mammalian Biology DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2010.06.006 2. Díaz López B. & Shirai, J.A.B., 2009. Mediterranean common bottlenose dolphin's repertoire and communication use. In: Dolphins: Anatomy, Behavior, and Threats, A.G: Pierce & L. Correa (Eds.), Nova Science Publishers, New York. 3. Diaz Lopez B., 2009. The bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus foraging around a fish farm: Effects of prey abundance on dolphins' behaviour. Current Zoology (Acta Zoologica Sinica) 55(4):243-248. 4. Diaz Lopez B., Bunke, M. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture off Sardinia Island (Italy): ecosystem effects evaluated through a trophic mass-balance model. Ecological Modelling 212: 292-303. 5. Diaz Lopez, B., Shirai, J.A.; Bilbao Prieto, A. & M?ndez Fern?ndez, P., 2008. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K. 88(6): 1153-1157. 6. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure. Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62(6): 887-894. 7. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2007. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) presence and incidental capture in a marine fish farm on the noth-eastern coast of Sardinia (Italy)" Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K, 87, 113-117. 8. Diaz Lopez, B., 2006. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Predation on a Marine Fin Fish Farm: Some Underwater Observations". Aquatic Mammals 32(3): 305- 310 pp. 9. Diaz Lopez, B., 2006. Interactions between Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and gillnets off Sardinia. ICES Journal of Marine Science 63:944-951 pp. 10. Diaz Lopez, B., Marini, L., Polo, F., 2005. The impact of a fish farm on a bottlenose dolphin population in the Mediterranean Sea. Thalassas 2005, 21(2):53-58. Bruno Diaz Lopez Chief Researcher / Marine Zoologist Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI V.Armando Diaz Nº4 07020 Golfo Aranci (SS) Italy www.thebdri.com info(a)thebdri.com tel.+ 39 346 081 5414 tel. + 0789 183 1197

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Open Marine Mammal Research Internship Position (The Whale Center of New England)
by Kelly Slivka 16 Oct '10

16 Oct '10

Marine Mammal Research Internship for Spring 2011 (For a detailed description and application, please see our website at www.whalecenter.org/research-whales/whale-center-internships.html) The Whale Center of New England, located in Gloucester, MA, is a non-profit research organization involved with the study of the behavior, ecology, and natural history of the whales and dolphins found in the waters off of Massachusetts. The Whale Center is also heavily involved with habitat conservation and public education. We are currently looking to fill a research internship position for the Spring (January 31 - May 27) semester of 2011. The Whale Center of New England internship provides the experience needed to further pursue fields in marine biology and animal behavior. It is our goal to provide college students and recent graduates with the opportunity to collect valuable information important to the marine mammal field and to see how this information is used in management and conservation efforts in this area. Our Spring internship session offers a variety of experiences in marine mammal studies. Typical duties may include, but are not limited to: extensive photo-identification and computer work (training provided), field data collection aboard commercial whale watching vessels and our 42' research vessel The Mysticete, attendance at necropsies (whale autopsies), marine mammal stranding response, seal surveys, and attendance at conferences and meetings. The internship fee is $1250, and in return, interns will receive housing in Gloucester within walking distance to the office and boats. A common apartment is used, where interns live together and share cooking and cleaning duties. Rooms are shared with one other person. A living arrangement such as this is conducive to open discussion and interaction between peers, and home life is often a continuation of the day in the field. Also, college credit may be arranged by students through their department or as an independent research program at their college or university. The Whale Center of New England encourages this, and will take whatever steps are required to facilitate such efforts. Internship applicants should have the following: * A background in biology, zoology, or related field * Some knowledge of research methods and design * An ability to work, live and communicate well with others * Enthusiasm and dedication to work long days (sometimes 12 hours or more) in the field or office * Completed their freshmen year at the time of application In order to apply for an internship: please send our application (to be found at our aforementioned website), a resume or CV, a cover letter detailing your reason(s) for applying, two letters of recommendation, and an updated transcript. Once your application has been received and assessed, an interview may be arranged to take place during the week of December 01, 2010. A decision will be made shortly afterward. All applications must be submitted by Friday, November 19, 2010. Please note: internship positions are highly competitive. Application materials and questions regarding the internship should be directed to the intern coordinator: Kelly Slivka P.O. Box 159 Gloucester, MA 01930 978-281-6351 (office) 978-281-5666 (fax) kelly(a)whalecenter.org

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Dr. Bill's Obituary in the South Bend Tribune
by Caryn Self-Sullivan 15 Oct '10

15 Oct '10

William E. Evans Published in South Bend Tribune on October 15, 2010 Oct. 11, 1930 - Oct. 12, 2010 COLLEGE STATION, TX - ll Evans, PhD, 80, of College Station, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, October 12, 2010, at St. Joseph Regional Health Center in Bryan, Texas. A memorial ceremony will be at 2 p.m. Friday, October 15, at Christ Methodist Church in College Station. The Rev. Jerry House and Tommy Myrick will officiate. Dr. Evans is a world-renowned marine mammal acoustician and ecologist. He was one of the first scientists to work with the United States Navy's Marine Mammal Program in the 1960s. During his 10 years with the program, his primary area of research was marine mammal communication and echolocation. The result was a special research platform for recording and observing dolphins underwater called "Sea See." He went on to be the head of the Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute in San Diego and continued his remote sensing studies and their use in oceanography. Before leaving federal services, he was the presidentially-appointed chairman of the Marine Mammal Commission, promoted to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association associate administrator for Fisheries, followed by his appointment as the U.S. commissioner to the International Whaling Commission and Undersecretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere (NOAA). He recognized the need for science majors to have a university-level course focusing environmental policy and management, and taught such a course at Texas A&M University for 10 years. He was adjunct professor of biology at the University of Notre Dame. He retired as managing editor of American Midland Naturalist after finishing the journal's centennial issues. His most recent research has concentrated on the study of the history of international environmental policy and how it affects the conservation of threatened and endangered species. Dr. Evans is the author of several books, the most recent (2008) being an autobiography, 50 Years of Flukes and Flippers. He was named an Outstanding Alumnus for BGSU in 1985 and received an honorary doctorate of public service form BGSU in 1988. He was preceded in death by his parents, Justus Robert and Florence Martin Evans. Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Jean Evans; sons and daughters-in- law, Jon A. and Carylon Evans of Hespena, Ca., and Tim J., DVM, and Debora, of Columbia, Mo.; grandchildren, Andreya Evans, Courtney Evans, Kelsey Evans, Kendall Evans and Will Evans; and one great- grandson, Connor Summers. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to in memory of Bill to the BGSU Foundation, memo line: Marine-lab Bill Evans Memorial, Mileti Alumni Center, Bowling Green, Ohio, 43403. Arrangements are entrusted to Hillier Funeral Home, 2301 E. 29th St., Bryan, TX 77802, 979-822-1571. Please view and sign the guestbook at www.hillierfuneralhome.com .

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Two papers on vessel/whale collisions
by Greg Silber 14 Oct '10

14 Oct '10

We wish to note the availability of two recent publications concerning vessel collisions with large whales. Abstracts appear below and the papers are available at: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/pdfs/shipstrike/jembe_article.pdf and http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/pdfs/shipstrike/opr44.pdf Greg Silber Office of Protected Resources NOAA, Fisheries Service Silver Spring, MD, USA Silber, G.K., J. Slutsky, and S. Bettridge. 2010. Hydrodynamics of a ship/whale collision. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 391:10-19. ABSTRACT All endangered large whale species are vulnerable to collisions with large ships; and "ship strikes" are the greatest known threat to one of the world's rarest whales, the North Atlantic right whale (_Eubalaena_ _glacialis)_. The magnitude of this threat is likely to increase as maritime commerce expands. Factors influencing the incidence and severity of ship strikes are not well understood, although vessel speed appears to be a strong contributor. The purpose of this study was to characterize hydrodynamic forces at play near a moving hull that may cause a whale to be drawn to or repelled from the hull, and to assess the forces exerted on a whale at the time of impact particularly as it relates to vessel speed. Using scale models of a container ship and a right whale in experimental flow tanks, we measured accelerations experienced by a whale model in the presence of a moving vessel, and assessed hydrodynamic actions near the hull on the static, free floating whale model. Impact accelerations were measured while the whale was at the surface at various vessel speeds, orientations of the whale relative to the vessel path, and distances off the direct path of the vessel. We observed that accelerations experienced by the whale model in a collision: increased in magnitude with increasing ship speed; were not dependent on whale orientation to the vessel path; and decreased exponentially with increasing separation distances from the ship track. Subsequent experiments with the whale model submerged indicate a pronounced propeller suction effect, a drawing of the whale toward the hull at one to two times the ship's draft, and increased probability of propeller strikes resulting from this class of encounter. We present a heuristic map of the hydrodynamic field around a transiting hull likely involved in close whale/vessel encounters. These results may have bearing on policy decisions, particularly those involving vessel speed, aimed at protecting endangered large whales from ship strikes worldwide. Silber, G.K., and S. Bettridge. 2010. Vessel operations in right whale protection areas in 2009. U.S. Dep. Commer., NOAA Tech. Memo. NMFS-OPR-44. 44 p. Executive Summary One of the greatest threats to the recovery of the highly depleted North Atlantic right whale (/Eubalaena glacialis/) is collisions with ships (or "ship strikes"). The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has taken a number of steps to reduce the threat, including issuing a final rule (73 Federal Register 60173, October 2008) that requires vessels _>_65 feet in length to travel at 10 knots or less in certain times and locations (termed "Seasonal Management Areas", or SMA) of right whale occurrence. NMFS also initiated a program whereby "Dynamic Management Areas" (DMA) are established in areas in which right whales are observed outside SMAs, whereby temporary zones are created and vessels are requested (but, not required) to either navigate around the zone or travel through it at 10 knots or less. This process allows for management measures that are tied directly to the known, but perhaps transitory, presence of right whales, and provides a means to establish areas effecting vessel operations that are smaller (in area) and shorter (in duration) than seasonal management measures. NMFS is monitoring the effectiveness of the restrictions by assessing compliance with the vessel speed limits as well as adherence to associated voluntary measures. Automatic Identification System (AIS) technologies provide a precise and easily accessible means to do so. Originally conceived as a safety of navigation technology, the AIS uses Global Positioning System (GPS)-linked, very high frequency (VHF) radio signal that provides for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore information transfer. It transmits the ship's name, call sign, position, dimensions, speed, heading and other information multiple times each minute. The AIS signal provides a suite of information, both dynamic (that is unique to a particular voyage) and static (that is consistent for a given vessel). Dynamic information includes the vessel's position, speed over ground, course over ground, heading, rate of turn, and position accuracy (< or > 10 m) which are determined by continuous GPS-linked updates. Static information includes the vessel's: name, call sign, type, cargo, and its Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number. Given the rate at which it provides this information, AIS is a precise means to remotely track vessel speeds and other vessel operations. Our goal here is to provide (a) a characterization of vessel traffic volume, patterns, and speeds of vessels transiting SMAs, and (b) an initial assessment of vessel adherence to the vessel speed restrictions. This summary is for the period of January 2009 (the rule was enacted December 2008) through December 2009. We also provide an initial characterization of vessel use of DMAs in the same period. We gathered information on vessel activity in 10 operational SMAs, and in 18 DMAs for the period January to December 2009. As set forth in the rulemaking, the SMAs we analyzed were effective in: Cape Cod Bay (1 January -- 15 May); an area Off Race Point, MA (1 March -- 30 April); an area in the Great South Channel (1 April -- 31 July); an area extending from mid-coastal Georgia to northern Florida (15 November -- 15 April); and (1 November -- 30 April for each of the following) Block Island Sound, port entrances of New York City and New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, Norfolk VA, Wilmington, NC, and an area extending from Wilmington, NC to just south of Savannah, GA. A total of 39,615 vessel transits were recorded in active SMAs in 2009. Of these, 10,982 were not applicable to conditions set forth in the Rule or were deemed inaccurate and were therefore removed from further analysis. Thus, a total of 28,633 transits were analyzed to determine vessel types, vessel speeds, SMA use, and other characteristics of these passages. The New York-New Jersey port entrance SMA had the greatest number of transits (n = 7,651) followed by the North Carolina-Georgia complex and the Norfolk SMAs (6,502 and 4,790 transits, respectively). Cargo vessels constituted the majority of ship passages in all SMAs, comprising over 50.3 % of all vessel transits, (and excluding the "other" vessel type category) followed by tanker vessels (14.9%), and tug-type vessels (10.2%). Cargo vessels were strongly represented in the New York-New Jersey, Norfolk and North Carolina-Georgia SMAs, with the North Carolina-Georgia complex having the highest number of cargo transits of all SMAs. Considering all transits in all active SMAs the ratio of foreign flagged to domestic vessels was 1.6:1 The most common maximum speed represented was 11 knots; and the majority of all transits were between 11 and 16 knots. A substantial number of transits were at maximum speeds in excess of 16 knots. Aggregate maximum speeds in most SMAs exhibited a "bell-curve" with peaks between 10 and 16 knots; while the most highly represented maximum speed in nearly all SMAs was 11 - 12 knots. Generally, domestic vessels had lower aggregate vessel speeds than did foreign-flagged vessels; foreign-flagged vessels tended to travel at 12 knots or greater. Cargo vessels exhibited the highest aggregate maximum speeds (with the most traveling in the 15-16 knot range), followed by tankers (with peaks in the 11-13 knot range), and aggregate speeds for passenger vessels had peaks around 12 knots. Vessels in the "tug, tow, dredge", and "other" categories exhibited peak aggregate speeds around 10 knots. In 2009, 18 DMAs were "triggered" by right whale presence, all occurring in waters off New England. A total of 1,406 vessel transits occurred in these active DMAs. The majority were tankers (n = 521), nearly twice as many as any other vessel category. Excluding the "other" category, cargo vessels were the second most common type. The distribution of vessel speeds through DMAs is different than the distribution for vessel speeds utilized in SMAs (it was not a "bell-shape" as in the SMA speed distributions). In DMAs, 11 knots was the most common maximum speed; and there appeared to be a higher proportion of vessels traveling 11 knots or less than those vessels traversing SMAs. A second peak occurred at 14 knots with a large portion traveling at 13 and 14 knots; probably reflecting the number of cargo ships and tankers traversing the zones. Likely, many tug and barges and "big-tows" (vessels typically traveling at speeds under 12 knots) have limited options to route around such areas: being largely coastal and having specific destinations that require routes through DMAs and therefore opt to travel through DMAs; whereas larger, ocean-going vessels on more lengthy routes may have the latitude to avoid a particular area. It is not clear why "compliance" (defined strictly here as maximum speed _<_10 knots) with vessel speed requirements was low. Contributing factors may be a lack of public recognition of the rule, disregard for it, or inadequate early enforcement. There are almost certainly learning and acquisition phases to a requirement that substantially alters standard practices. With regard to "foreign-flagged" vessels and their operators, particularly those making infrequent port calls, language barriers or simple lack of familiarity with domestic requirements may hamper acquisition of the significance and requirements of the rule. Regarding knowledge of the rule, however, NOAA and a suite of partners made a concerted effort to notify the public and maritime community about the requirements both prior to their enactment and during the periods in which SMAs were in effect. Perhaps one significant weakness in efforts to alert mariners is that of NOAA's printed nautical charts which currently do not depict SMAs. There are lessons to be learned about the importance of an effective enforcement program, and about possible weaknesses in the distribution of various notification outlets, their capacity to reach the targeted audience, or the level of their impact in influencing the behavior of certain maritime operators.

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Marine mammal books available for sale
by Sclymene＠aol.com 13 Oct '10

13 Oct '10

Dear MARMAMers, Over the years I have accumulated duplicate copies of many marine mammal books and monographs. I am making these available to my colleagues for reasonable prices. All money raised will go to a good cause - it will be donated to conservation of the Critically Endangered vaquita (Phocoena sinus). Most books are in good shape, and unless indicated all are originals (no photocopies). Below is a small sample of the several dozen books that are available. Please contact me at sclymene(a)aol.com for a copy of the entire list. ANDERSEN, H. T. (ed.). 1969. The Biology of Marine Mammals. Academic Press, 511 pp. $55. ANDREWS, R. C. 1911. A new porpoise from Japan. Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History 30:31-51. $13. ANDREWS, R. C. 1914. Monographs of the Pacific Cetacea. I.- The California gray whale (Rhachiantectes glaucus Cope). Memoirs of the American Museum of Natural History 1:229-287. $150. BROWNELL, R. L. and G. P. DONOVAN (ed.). 1988. Biology of the Genus Cephalorhynchus. Reports of the International Whaling Commission, 344 pp. $60. BUSNEL, R. G. (ed.). 1966. Animal Sonar Systems - Biology and Bionics, Volume 1. Laboratoire de Physiologie Acoustique, Jouy-en-Josas 78, France, 713 pp. $40. DOMNING, D. P. 1978. Sirenian evolution in the North Pacific Ocean. University of California Publications in Geological Sciences 118:176 pp. $70. FLOWER, W. H. (ed.). 1866. Recent Memoirs on the Cetacea by Professors Eschricht, Reinhardt and Lilljeborg. Ray Society, London, 312 pp. + plates. $160. HERSHKOVITZ, P. 1966. Catalog of living whales. Bulletin of the United States National Museum 246:259 pp. $15. KELLOGG, R. 1955. Three Miocene porpoises from the Calvert Cliffs, Maryland. Proceedings of the United States National Museum 105:101-154. $20. LEATHERWOOD, S., D. K. CALDWELL and H. E. WINN. 1976. Whales, dolphins, and porpoises of the western North Atlantic: a guide to their identification. NOAA Technical Report NMFS Circular 396:176 pp. $15. LEATHERWOOD, S., B. S. STEWART and P. A. FOLKENS. 1987. Cetaceans of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. NMFS and CINMS, 66 pp. $12. MILLER, G. S. 1929. The gums of the porpoise Phocoenoides dalli (True). Proceedings of the United States National Museum 74:1-4. $10. MITCHELL, E. (ed.). 1975. Review of biology and fisheries for smaller cetaceans (special issue). Journal of the Fisheries Research Board of Canada 32:879-1242. $20. MORZER BRUYNS, W. F. J. 1971. Field Guide of Whales and Dolphins. Uitgeverij Tor, 258 pp. $35. PETERSON, R. S. and G. A. BARTHOLOMEW. 1967. The natural history and behavior of the California sea lion. American Society of Mammalogists, Special Publication 1:79 pp. $13. WOOD, F. G. 1973. Marine Mammals and Man: The Navy's Porpoises and Sea Lions. Luce, 264 pp. $10. ZHOU, K. and ZHANG XINGDUAN. 1991. Baiji: The Yangtze River Dolphin and Other Endangered Animals of China. Stonewall Press, 132 pp. $12. Best wishes, Tom ********************************************************************* Thomas A. Jefferson, Ph.D. Clymene Enterprises / Cetos Research Organization 5495 Camino Playa Malaga San Diego, CA 92124 Tel. (858) 278-4240 Email: sclymene(a)aol.com *********************************************************************

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Vacancy announcements for two fishery biologists
by Brian Bloodworth 13 Oct '10

13 Oct '10

The National Marine Fisheries Service (Silver Spring, Maryland) is hiring two fishery biologist positions in its Office of Protected Resources. In addition to the summary below, details can be obtained at http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/?WT.svl=navsearch. Apologies for cross-postings. *AGENCY & LOCATION*: National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Endangered Species Division, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA *JOB ANNOUNCEMENT NUMBERS: *NMFS-PR-2010-0023 (career employees); NMFS-PR-2010-0024 (all candidates) *SALARY RANGE:* $89,033.00 - $136,771.00 USD per year *SERIES & GRADE:* ZP-0482-4/4 *OPEN PERIOD:* Wednesday, September 29, 2010 to Wednesday, October 27, 2010 *DUTIES:* There are two positions in the Office of Protected Resources, Endangered Species Division, at Silver Spring, Maryland USA. The incumbent serves as program authority and expert technical advisor to the Division Chief, Office Director and Assistant Administrator for Fisheries on the national implementation of the ESA. The incumbent will analyze complex Federal activities to determine their effects to threatened and endangered species under NMFS jurisdiction. One may include U.S. Navy training activities, scientific research cruises, and the issuance of scientific research permits. The other will analyze complex Federal activities such as the setting of national water quality criteria, and other Clean Water Act activities. Both positions will undertake this activity in coordination with the General Counsel for Fisheries, NMFS Regions and Centers, and other elements as appropriate. The incumbent will also provide guidance to other agencies on ESA Section 7 consultation requirements and processes; and prepare briefing materials and background materials for NMFS, NOAA, and DOC officials on applicable ESA program activities. Payment of relocation expenses is authorized for current status applicants. To see the entire vacancy announcement and further details, go to: http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/?WT.svl=navsearch and enter the job announcement number.

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Paper on click communication in porpoises
by tubbert＠sol.dk 13 Oct '10

13 Oct '10

Dear All, This recent paper sheds light on how harbour porpoises communicate acoustically using specific patterns of clicks with source properties comparable to normal echolocation clicks. Requests for reprints can be directed to tubbert(a)sol.dk <mailto:tubbert@sol.dk> All the best, Karin Tubbert Clausen CLICK COMMUNICATION IN HARBOUR PORPOISES PHOCOENA PHOCOENA Karin Tubbert Clausen1*, Magnus Wahlberg2, 3, Kristian Beedholm1, Stacy DeRuiter4,5 and Peter Teglberg Madsen1,5 1 Zoophysiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Aarhus University, Build. 1131, C.F. Moellers Alle, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark 2 Fjord & Baelt, Margrethes Plads 1, 5300 Kerteminde, Denmark 3 University of Southern Denmark, Hindsholmsvej 11, 5300 Kerteminde, Denmark 4 IFREMER, Service Acoustique et Sismique, BP 70, 29280 Plouzan��, France 5 Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, 02543 MA, USA ABSTRACT Sound plays an important role for toothed whales in foraging and communication. However, little is known about acoustic communication in the toothed whale species that only produce narrow band high frequency (NBHF) clicks, such as the harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena. To study acoustic behaviour and to quantify the source parameters of porpoise communication signals, the acoustic and swimming behaviour of three adults and one calf were recorded using an array of hydrophones, acoustic tags and an overhead video camera. We tested the hypothesis that different behavioural interactions between porpoises involve specific click patterns for communication and measured the source characteristics of these click patterns to estimate the active space of porpoise click communication. Our results provide strong evidence that porpoises communicate acoustically using specific patterns of clicks with source properties comparable to normal echolocation clicks, and that they employ stereotyped aggressive click patterns, exposing conspecifics to received levels of up to 180 dB re 1 ��Pa (pp). The measured source properties render estimated active spaces of less than 1000 meters for porpoises�� communication sounds. Compared to other cetaceans, porpoises must therefore remain much closer to be able to communicate acoustically. Keywords: harbour porpoise, Phocoena phocoena, click communication, mother-calf pair, active space Karin Tubbert Clausen Zoophysiology, Department of Biological Sciences Aarhus University, Build. 1131, CF Mollers Alle 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark Web: www.marinebioacoustics.com <http://www.marinebioacoustics.com> sender_logo _______________________________________________________________ http://debat.sol.dk/ - din mening t�ller!

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Alaska Marine Science Symposium 2011 - Registration and Abstract submission
by Katie Blake 12 Oct '10

12 Oct '10

Please distribute (apologies for cross-postings). Thank you. 2011 ALASKA MARINE SCIENCE SYMPOSIUM Online ABSTRACT Submission and REGISTRATION NOW OPEN January 17-21, 2010 Hotel Captain Cook / Egan Center (For Poster Sessions) Anchorage, Alaska http://x.jango20.com/y.z?l=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alaskamarinescience.org&e=4363&… Submit an Abstract (online only; no e-mail) October 1 - November 8 http://x.jango20.com/y.z?l=http%3A%2F%2Fabstract.alaskamarinescience.org&e=… Register Online (free) October 1, 2009 - January 9, 2010 http://x.jango20.com/y.z?l=http%3A%2F%2Fregister.alaskamarinescience.org&e=… A great reason to come to Anchorage in January Scientists from Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, the nation, and beyond will gather in Anchorage to inform each other about their research in the marine ecosystems of the Arctic, the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska. A broad spectrum of ocean science Plenary and poster sessions will feature the latest research on climate, oceanography, lower trophic levels, the benthos, fishes and invertebrates, seabirds, marine mammals, local and traditional knowledge, and socioeconomic research. Free registration Thanks to the continued support of our many dedicated sponsors, Registration is free of charge for attendees this year. Thank you for your interest, we look forward to seeing you in January! Katie Blake Chair, Alaska Marine Science Symposium Organizing Committee Katie.blake(a)nprb.org http://x.jango20.com/y.z?l=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nprb.org&e=4363&j=253347605 *You have received this message because your email has been among those compiled for: North Pacific Research Board, COSEE, AOOS and Alaska SeaLife Center listservs. This e-mail was sent by North Pacific Research Board, located at 1007 W 3rd Ave, Ste 100, Anchorage, Alaska 99501 (USA). To receive no further e-mails, please click here <http://x.jango20.com/u.z?j=253347605&m=8D8A8A834E5344BA8313DF80DF0470DB> or reply to this e-mail with "unlist" in the Subject line.

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Second announcement of the 25th ECS Conference
by ECS ECS 12 Oct '10

12 Oct '10

Second announcement of the 25th ECS Conference This is the *Second Announcement of the 25th Conference of the European Cetacean Society!* CIRCE, Conservation, Information and Research on Cetaceans and the "Estación Biológica de Doñana" of the CSIC (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas) is proud to announce the 25th Conference of the European Cetacean Society (ECS), whose theme will be: *"Long-term datasets on marine mammals: learning from the past to manage the future"*. The conference will also host the *annual meeting of the Spanish Cetacean Society*. The conference will have as preliminary programme: Ø Workshops: 19-20 March 2011. Ø 25th ECS Conference 21-23 March 2011. Ø Annual Meeting of the Spanish Cetacean society: 21 March 2011. Ø Video Night: 22 March 2011. Ø Excursion to the Strait of Gibraltar: 24 March 2011. Submission of abstract is available on www.europeancetaceansociety.eu (please register to have access to the abstract submission form), and general information is already available on www.circe.info. Please note the following milestones: Ø Abstract submission and workshop proposal: 19 November 2010. Ø Answer to the Authors: 24 December 2010. Ø Early Registration 14th January 2011. Ø Late registration 18 February 2011. If you have any questions, please contact ecs2011cadiz(a)gmail.com We are looking forward to welcoming you in Cádiz in March 2011! Renaud de Stephanis on Behalf of the Organising Committee.

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