January 2012 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Assistant positions for a cetacean study in the Mediterranean (Barcelona)
by Lara Delgado 11 Dec '14

11 Dec '14

Dear all, Positions are open for assisting with a cetacean survey in the Mediterranean Sea (Barcelona-Mallorca), Spain. Dates from 22nd of July to 30th of July 2011. DESCRIPTION: The EDMAKTUB association for the study and disclosure of aquatic environments, specially focused in the study of cetaceans; offer positions for volunteers for one of the trips of the summer campaign of the project “Cetacean population study of the Mediterranean Sea area: Barcelona-Balearic Islands, BCNCET 2010-2011”. The aim of the project is to study the cetacean species present in the Mediterranean Sea (Balearic Sea). The association catamaran will set sail to Mallorca, from the Barcelona port the 22nd of July and be back to Barcelona the 30th of July, both days included. Visual and acoustical surveys will be conducted from early morning to evening during the 9 days in the boat, studying the distribution, behaviour, and sound production of the sighted species. The assistants would be able to learn: species identification, environmental and behavioural data collection, sound collection, and basic marine navigating skills. Accommodation and food is offered in the catamaran during the 9 days, but assistants are required to pay 400€ for food and accommodation expenses. No previous experience is required, as the scientist present in the campaign will provide species identification information and teach assistants. If you are interested or want more information, please contact us to: edmaktub(a)edmaktub.com Thanks! EDMAKTUB association for the study and disclosure of the aquatic environment. www.edmaktub.com

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computer assisted dorsal fin matching software programs
by Marthajane Caldwell 03 Apr '12

03 Apr '12

Greetings List Members, I am interested in computer assisted dorsal fin matching software programs. Any information regarding the efficacy as well as pros and cons of such programs would be greatly appreciated. Please contact me directly at marthajane_c(a)yahoo.com rather than replying to MARMAM. Thank you for your time and consideration of this request, Mj Caldwell ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Marthajane Caldwell, Ph.D., Marine Mammal Behavioral Ecology Studies, Inc. 8429 Cresthill Avenue Savannah, GA 31406 marthajane_c(a)yahoo.com 912-655-1765 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Field Research Courses in Marine Mammals Science (Winter- Spring Season, 2012)
by Bruno Diaz 10 Feb '12

10 Feb '12

Field Research Courses in Marine Mammals Science (Winter- Spring Season, 2012) The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com) is pleased to announce the 10 days-long, Field Research-oriented Courses (FRC) in Marine Mammals Science (Winter- Spring Season, 2012). These training courses are limited to 6 students to ensure individualized instruction and specifically designed for everyone seriously interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal science. Students may choose one or more of the three exclusive courses, listed bellow, depending on interest. Each academical FRC combines exclusive lectures, hands-on boat-based field work and computer exercises, assignments and tests. These academically intensive training courses are developed with varied curicular designes and varied instructional strategies in order to meat specific learning goals. Courses are participatory in nature and are designed to stimulate inquiry and active learning. The exclusive FRC learning model helps students to connect the conceptual material presented in each course to case studies, learn field research techniques, collect and analyse field data, and develops holistic and critical thinking skills.The variety of subjects approached on these FRC's provides students with the tools and practical experience needed for a greater understanding about cetaceans populations and their conservation, as well as deeper insight into behavioural research concepts and methodology. FRC are divided in three exclusive training courses, (http://www.thebdri.com/education/courses.htm) FRC 1001 (Dates: 12th March – 21st March, 30th April – 9th May) MONITORING COASTAL BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN POPULATIONS: This FRC is general and provides an in-depth, hands-on immersion into the field of marine mammal science and more particularly applied dolphin research. As a result of successful completion of this course, you will be able to select and use appropriate research methods available to characterise the status of a coastal bottlenose dolphin population. FRC 1002 (Dates:9th April – 18th April, 14th May – 23rd May) SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND COMMUNICATION IN A FISSION-FUSION SOCIETY: This advanced FRC aims to provide specialization in behavioural methods, focusing in particular on bottlenose dolphin social behaviour and communication. By the end of the course, students will be able to design a project to assess the social organization of a bottlenose dolphin population. In addition, course attendants will get experience in using bioacoustical methods via computer practical sessions involving classification and analyses of bottlenose dolphin vocalizations. FRC 1003 (Dates: 16th April – 25th April, 30th April – 9th May) CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF COASTAL POPULATIONS: This advanced FRC surveys an extensive amount of knowledge and ongoing investigations concerning marine mammals conservation. Students will learn how to achieve an integrated approach to address human-dolphin conflicts and about mitigation. As a result of successful completion of this specialization course, attendants will gain a deeper insight into the various factors influencing the incidental capture of bottlenose dolphins, use of ecosystem-level models to predict the impact of human activities and explain the importance of local, national, and international policies that aim to protect bottlenose dolphin populations. BDRI offers a discounted price for students, covering a 25% of the FRC Tuition & Program fee. Accomodation (private and double rooms), with shared cooking and bathroom facilities are included in the courses fee. There is no deadline to apply. However, applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Positions are open until filled. APPLY NOW! Step 1. Read through this general information carefully: www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/courses.pdf Step 2. Decide what course/s you want to study, take note of any dates that may be preferred. Step 3. Submit your application by email to info(a)thebdri.com Find out more information on our new website: www.thebdri.com Email: info(a)thebdri.com; Telephone: 00 39 346 0815414 Selected scientific publications by BDRI: 1. Díaz López B. Mariño, F., 2011. A trial of acoustic harassment device efficacy on free-ranging bottlenose dolphins in Sardinia, Italy. Marine and Freshwater Behaviour and Physiology 2011, pp 1–12. 2. Díaz López B., 2011. Aquaculture systems. In: Handbook of Models used in Ecosystem and Environmental Management, Sven Erik Jørgensen (Ed.), CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, FL.pp 241-256. 3. Díaz López B., 2011. Whistle characteristics in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Mediterranean Sea: influence of behaviour. Mammalian Biology 76: 180-189. 4. Díaz López B. & Shirai, J.A.B., 2010. 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. Pp 129 -148. 5. Díaz López B., 2009. The bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus foraging around a fish farm: Effects of prey abundance on dolphins' behaviour. Current Zoology 55(4):243-248. 6. Díaz López 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. 7. Díaz López B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure.Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62 (6): 887-894. 8. Díaz López, B., Shirai, J.A.B., Bilbao Prieto, A. & Méndez Fernández, P., 2008. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal Marine Biological Association of U.K 88, Special Issue 06: 1153-1157. 9. Díaz López, B & Bernal Shirai, J.A.B., 2007. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) presence and incidental capture in a marine fish farm on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia (Italy)" Journal of Marine Biological Association of U.K 87: 113 – 117. 10. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Predation on a Marine Fin Fish Farm: Some Underwater Observations". Aquatic Mammals 32 (3): 305 – 310. 11. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Interactions between Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and gillnets off Sardinia". ICES Journal of Marine Science 63: 944-951. 12. Díaz López, B., Marini, L. and Polo, F. 2005. The Impact of a fish farm on a Bottlenose dolphin population in the Mediterranean Sea. Thalassas 21(1):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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MARINE WILDLIFE FIELD TEAM COORDINATOR VACANCY
by Nick Robinson 08 Feb '12

08 Feb '12

The Marine Wildlife Department continues its incredible expansion and increased expertise in this specialist area of our business. It offers a range of services including consultation of methodology and procedures, implementation of monitoring and mitigation measures for a range of industries and countries and comprehensive project reporting service. We are seeking to add to the team numbers and expertise in the following role; MARINE WILDLIFE FIELD TEAM COORDINATOR Reporting to the Marine Wildlife Business Manager, you will be responsible for the line-management of field personnel involved in marine mammal and bird surveys and mitigation work. You will also be responsible for co-ordinating the supply of field personnel for projects undertaking marine mammal and seabird survey and mitigation work on Gardline Marine Sciences Ltd and third-party vessels and to act as contact point for all operations concerning Marine Wildlife Department personnel requirements. You will work closely with the Marine Wildlife Department Manager and Marine Wildlife Department Project Team Manager on all offshore issues and with the Marine Wildlife Department Technician on all equipment issues within the department and with the applicable personnel within Gardline Environmental Ltd and Gardline Marine Sciences Ltd. Ideally you will be of degree calibre or equivalent, and demonstrate a sound knowledge of the marine mammals, seabirds and the marine environment with both a scientific and commercial awareness. You will possess previous managerial skills, excellent communication and interpersonal skills in order to gain and process complex information, present that information clearly and concisely and think logically, critically and decisively. This is an office based position in Great Yarmouth however you may be required to undertake occasional travel around the world. To apply for this role, please send your CV and cover letter to Robert Rae, Group Recruitment Officer at robert.rae(a)gardline.co.uk<mailto:robert.rae@gardline.co.uk> or via the careers section of our website www.gardlinemarinesciences.com<http://www.gardlinemarinesciences.com/> Closing date: 16th December 2011 ________________________________ 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. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System, on behalf of the Gardline Group of Companies. For more information please visit http://www.symanteccloud.com _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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The impact of predation on Steller sea lions - new paper out
by Horning, Markus 31 Jan '12

31 Jan '12

Dear MARMAMers a new publication on the impacts of predation on juvenile western Steller sea lions is now freely available via Open Access at PLoS ONE: http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0030173 Horning M, Mellish JE. 2012. Predation on an Upper Trophic Marine Predator, the Steller Sea Lion: Evaluating High Juvenile Mortality in a Density Dependent Conceptual Framework. PLoS ONE 7(1):e30173. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0030173 Abstract: The endangered western stock of the Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) – the largest of the eared seals – has declined by 80% from population levels encountered four decades ago. Current overall trends from the Gulf of Alaska to the Aleutian Islands appear neutral with strong regional heterogeneities. A published inferential model has been used to hypothesize a continuous decline in natality and depressed juvenile survival during the height of the decline in the mid-late 1980’s, followed by the recent recovery of juvenile survival to pre-decline rates. However, these hypotheses have not been tested by direct means, and causes underlying past and present population trajectories remain unresolved and controversial. We determined post-weaning juvenile survival and causes of mortality using data received post-mortem via satellite from telemetry transmitters implanted into 36 juvenile Steller sea lions from 2005 through 2011. Data show high post-weaning mortality by predation in the eastern Gulf of Alaska region. To evaluate the impact of such high levels of predation, we developed a conceptual framework to integrate density dependent with density independent effects on vital rates and population trajectories. Our data and model do not support the hypothesized recent recovery of juvenile survival rates and reduced natality. Instead, our data demonstrate continued low juvenile survival in the Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords region of the Gulf of Alaska. Our results on contemporary predation rates combined with the density dependent conceptual framework suggest predation on juvenile sea lions as the largest impediment to recovery of the species in the eastern Gulf of Alaska region. The framework also highlights the necessity for demographic models based on age-structured census data to incorporate the differential impact of predation on multiple vital rates. Best Regards, Markus Horning __________________________________________________ Dr. Markus Horning, Pinniped Ecology Applied Research Lab Marine Mammal Institute, Oregon State University 2030 SE Marine Science Drive, Newport, OR 97365, USA Tel. 541.867.0202 Fax 541.867.0128 markus.horning(a)oregonstate.edu<mailto:markus.horning@oregonstate.edu> http://mmi.oregonstate.edu/pearl/ www.sealtag.org<http://www.sealtag.org/>

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HEPCA seeks field assistants for the Red Sea Dolphin Project (summer 2012), Egyptian Red Sea.
by Maddalena Fumagalli 31 Jan '12

31 Jan '12

Hello everybody, this is to inform you that the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA) is selecting field assistants to join the Red Sea Dolphin Project in the upcoming 2012 summer expedition (http://redseadolphinproject.wordpress.com) The project is the first scientific survey dedicated to the study of dolphins and whales presence, abundance, distribution and habitat preferences in the Southern Egyptian Red Sea. Starting from this upcoming season, the project will be supported and promoted by the Earthwatch Institute (http://www.earthwatch.org/exped/costa.html) The research is entirely boat-based, conducted on board the 35m long HEPCA research vessel, and surveys a strip of marine waters 50Km wide from Marsa Alam all the way south to the Sudanese border. Every 10 days the boat docks for water and fuel supply and to embark/land eco-volunteers, the majority of the time is spent at sea and we usually overnight in offshore reefs. This is an excellent opportunity to get some experience in visual and acoustic marine mammal survey, photo-identification, behavioural data collection and coral reef monitoring, as well as develop practical skills, while exploring a pristine subtropical region. The summer survey is organized in one leg *from the 10th of June to the 31st of July 2012*. Applicants should be ready to work long hours (from sunrise to sunset, and occasionally also during night-time navigation) in demanding weather conditions, 7 days a week. Applicants are at ease on a boat and comfortable sharing small spaces with other researchers and volunteers. As meals are prepared by the crew and shopping done every 10 days in remote areas, fussy eaters are discouraged from applying(vegetarianism can be accommodated). High motivation and ability to concentrate for several hours are essential. Duties include: . Learn all research protocols and carry out independently duties assigned; . Entry data in real time (Access and Base databases); . Crop, sort and manage images for photo-identification; . Perform underwater photo-identification data collection; . Assist with behavioural and genetic data collection; . Carry on Bleach Watch Monitoring (training will be provided); . Clean and maintain equipment; . Hold lectures on various research and environmental topics; . Entertain, help and assist Earthwatch volunteers on board; . Keep own and common spaces clean and safe. Requirements: . Availability for the entire survey; . Previous experience in marine mammals research, preferred in boat-based surveys; . Easygoing, patient, adaptable and sociable as they are expected to work and live as part of a team and share small spaces with up to 25 people (including researchers, crew and eco-volunteers) for long time. Other requirement: . Proficiency in English, good written and oral communication skills; . Previous experience in Earthwatch programmes is preferred but not required; . Proficiency in swimming and snorkelling; . Basic computer literacy with a working knowledge of PC operating system and proficiency with MS Office. Familiarity with software including Microsoft Access, Pamguard, Distance, ArcGIS/Manifold, Photoshop would be helpful but not required. Successful interns are required to bring their own laptop computer. Successful candidates are provided with accommodation in shared double en-suite cabins for the duration of the expedition and are required to contribute to living and research expenses with a total amount of 500€. Assistants are expected to come to Hurghada on the 6th of June 2012 to attend training sessions. In these days, they will be responsible for their own accommodation and food expenses. They will also need to arrange their own travel to/from Hurghada. Transport from/to Hurghada and the field site is provided on arrival and departure. To apply, send a cover letter and updated and relevant CV (including references) to *maddalena(a)hepca.com*.* * Deadline for applications is *March 18, 2012*. Potential successful candidates will be contacted for an interview to be held at the end of March/beginning of April 2012. Maddalena Fumagalli Marine Biologist HEPCA - Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association Hurghada New Marina - Building B2 Hurghada- Red Sea- Egypt Tel:+2 065 344 50 35/ 065 3447728 maddalena(a)hepca.com www.hepca.com

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CRRU 2012 field dates announced
by Dr Kevin Robinson 30 Jan '12

30 Jan '12

Each year, the Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit (CRRU) offers a number of unique opportunities for a seasonal corps of trainees to join their field projects in Gardenstown in Scotland and Trang in SW Thailand as contributing members of the research and rescue team. The field courses are run in the form of an 11-day educational placement, and as a trainee with the CRRU you will have the opportunity to learn about these mammals and their dynamic marine environment first hand - working closely alongside a dedicated and knowledgeable team of biologists whilst at the same time providing crucial support for the organisation's long-term research programme. As you participate in ongoing field studies, you will learn and apply the principles of field research design (accompanied by structured lectures and field tuition), undertake training in marine mammal rescue techniques, and gain a personal understanding of the conservation issues which drive the research, rescue and conservation activities of this small but estimable charity. Founded in 1997, the CRRU boasts over 70 scientific publications to date (http://www.crru.org.uk/publications.asp) In cooperation with universities, research institutions and other environmental organisations, current studies focus on the key coastal cetacean species frequenting the outer Moray Firth in NE Scotland - namely bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and minke whales - and the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins of Trang in SW Thailand; providing robust scientific data for the adoption of management measures and effective conservation strategies for their future protection. The most important requirements for participants are enthusiasm, the ability and willingness to learn and work under often difficult (but rewarding) field conditions, and the open-mindedness and sense of humour to work, live and communicate with other people of mixed nationality, background and ethnicity. For further details, including a full list of available team dates and costs, please visit http://www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp. A full project briefing and booking forms are available by emailing us at: info(a)crru.org.uk. With all best wishes and thanks Dr. Kevin Robinson kev.robinson(a)crru.org.uk Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit | Whale and Dolphin Research | Environmental Education | Wildlife Rescue | Marine Conservation | Consultancy | Web: <http://www.crru.org.uk/> www.crru.org.uk PO Box 11307, Banff AB45 3WB, Scotland ( +44 (0)1261 851696 | 13 M1 Koh Tao, Suratthani 84360, Thailand ( +66 (0)872 634593 | Recognised Scottish Charity No. SC 035473 Check out our new Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/crru.org.uk P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

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Striped dolphin strandings, eastern Adriatic Sea
by Nikolina Rako 30 Jan '12

30 Jan '12

Dear MARMAM members, Within the past few months seismic surveys have been conducted in the central part of the Adriatic Sea at around 40 nm from the shore. During this time, 6 striped dolphin (Stenella coruleolaba) standings have been reported along the eastern Adriatic coast, of which 3 where reported dead, 2 were reported as live strandings and animals were returned to the sea and 1 live stranding ended with animal dying. If anyone has more information on similar events (dolphin strandings related to airguns) please contact: nikolina.rako(a)blue-world.org Thank you in advance, With kind regards, Nikolina Rako Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation

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new publication on contamination of Atlantic spotted dolphins
by Marcos Santos 29 Jan '12

29 Jan '12

Dear Marmamers: A recent manuscript on contamination of Atlantic spotted dolphins in Western South Atlantic is available: Leonel, J.; Taniguchi, S.; Sasaki, D.K.; Cascaes, M.J.; Dias, P.S.; Botta, S.; Santos, M.C. de O. & Montone, R.C. 2012. Contamination by chlorinated pesticides, PCBs and PBDEs in Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis) in western South Atlantic. Chemosphere, 86: 741-746. Abstract: Chlorinated pesticides, PCBs and PBDEs were analysed in nine blubber samples of Atlantic spotted dolphins, Stenella frontalis, incidentally captured during fishing operations in southern and southeastern Brazil between 2005 and 2007. The majority of compounds analysed were detected, suggesting widespread contamination over the region. Although the samples came from a location far from main coastal industrial areas, the results revealed an influence from such sources. Therefore, levels of PCBs (774–23659 ng g-1 lipid wt.) and PBDEs (23–1326 ng g-1 lipid wt.) detected seem to be related to the movement of individuals throughout near-shore and offshore waters. The sample from a lactating female exhibited a lower level of contamination and a distinct pattern, indicating selective transfer favouring less lipophilic compounds. Pdf requests at: sotalia(a)gmail.com Cheers, Marcos Santos -- Dr. Marcos Cesar de Oliveira Santos Laboratorio de Biologia da Conservacao de Mamiferos Aquaticos Departamento de Oceanografia Biologica, Instituto Oceanografico, Universidade de Sao Paulo Praca do Oceanografico, 191, Sala 145-A Butanta, Sao Paulo, SP, Brasil 05508-120

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New article on placental transfer of persistent organic pollutants in beluga whales
by Jean-Pierre Desforges 27 Jan '12

27 Jan '12

Dear all, A new article published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry is now available online: Transplacental transfer of polychlorinated biphenyls and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in arctic beluga whales (*Delphinapterus leucas*) Authors: JP Desforges, P.S. Ross, L.L. Loseto Contact: jean-pierre.desforges(a)dfo-mpo.gc.ca http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/etc.750/abstract Abstract: This study found that arctic beluga whales (*Delphinapterus leucas*) transferred, on average, 11.4% (7.5 mg) and 11.1% (0.1 mg) of their polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) blubber burden to their near-term fetuses. A single physicochemical parameter, log *K*OW, largely explained this transplacental transfer for PCBs (*r*2 = 0.79, *p* < 0.00001) and PBDEs (*r*2 = 0.37,*p* = 0.007), with congeners having a log *K*OW < 6.5 preferentially transferred to the fetus. Blubber concentrations of 257 ng/g lipid weight (lw) PCBs and 3.8 ng/g (lw) PBDEs in beluga fetuses highlights the exposure to endocrine-disrupting compounds during a critical developmental stage. The implications of detecting these levels of legacy PCBs and the flame retardant PBDEs in unborn arctic beluga are unclear. Cheers, -- J.P Desforges M.Sc. Candidate School of Earth & Ocean Science University of Victoria

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