May 2012 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Volunteers needed for intensive fieldwork in Panama
by Shakira Quiñones 05 May '12

05 May '12

Two research assistants are needed for fieldwork at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) station in Bocas del Toro, Panamá. DATES: 06/24 - 07/31 Volunteers will be assisting two Master students with boat-based observations and acoustic data analysis of a bottlenose dolphin population in Bocas del Toro, Panamá. Fieldwork is going to be intense involving long hours in a small boat and under extremely sunny and warm conditions. Volunteers are responsible of their own traveling and accommodations expenses at the STRI station. We do not require any previous experience with dolphins and experience in acoustics analysis is considered a plus, but once again it is not required as long as you are willing to learn. Volunteers are expected to be able to communicate well in English or Spanish (preferably both). Local undergraduate students from Panamá are strongly encouraged to participate. A positive attitude is a must! If interested, please send a message explaining why you would like to participate with an attached resume or CV to shakiguani(a)gmail.com. -- Shakira G. Quiñones Lebrón M.S. Student, Biology Department University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras P.O. Box 23360 San Juan, PR 00931

1 0

New article: PBDE flame retardants and PCBs in Steller sea lions (BC, Canada)
by Juan Alava 04 May '12

04 May '12

Dear colleagues, Please, find below the abstract of a new contribution regarding the first assessment of PBDE flame retardants and PCBs in overwintering Steller sea lion in BC, Canada. If you would like a pdf copy of the article in press, please feel free to request the paper to jalavasa(a)sfu.ca (Juan José Alava). Cheers Juan Jose Alava Chemosphere Available online 2 May 2012 In Press, Corrected Proof PBDE flame retardants and PCBs in migrating Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) in the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia, Canada * J. J. Alava, D. Lambourn, P. Olesiuk, M. Lance, S. J. Jeffries, F. A.P.C. Gobas, P. S. Ross * http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2012.03.094 ________________________________ Abstract Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured in blubber biopsy samples from 22 live-captured Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) that had just entered the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia, Canada, for their overwintering feeding season. ∑PBDE ranged from 50 μg kg−1 (lipid weight) in adult females to 3780 μg kg−1 in subadult individuals. ∑PCBs ranged from 272 μg kg−1 in adult females to 14 280 μg kg−1 in subadult individuals. While most PBDE and PCB congeners were transferred through milk to pups, PCBs with log KOW > 7.0 (PCBs 206, 207, 208 and 209) appeared constrained, resulting in a lighter mixture in pups compared to adult females. The ratio of individual PCB congeners by metabolic group (Groups I, II, III, IV and V) to PCB-153 regressed against length of males suggested poor biotransformation of these compounds (slopes did not differ from zero, p > 0.05). PBDE congeners 49, 99, 153 and 183 appeared bioaccumulative (slopes of ratio BDE/PCB 153 versus length were higher than zero, p < 0.05), but the dominance of the single congener, BDE-47 (64% of total PBDEs), likely due in part to debromination pathways, reduced our ability to explore congener-specific dynamics of PBDEs in these pinnipeds. With 80% of our Steller sea lions exceeding a recent toxicity reference value for PCBs, the fasting-associated mobilization of these contaminants raises concerns about a heightened vulnerability to adverse effects during annual migrations. ________________________________ Highlights ► PCBs and PBDEs were found at moderately high levels in Steller sea lions. ► Biotransformation was only evident for a limited number of PCB and PBDE congeners. ► 80% of the sea lions had PCB levels that exceeded toxicity threshold in pinnipeds. Keywords * Steller sea lions; * PBDEs; * PCBs; * Maternal transfer; * Metabolism; * Bioaccumulation Juan Jose Alava, PhD Research Associate School of Resource & Environmental Management (Environmental Toxicology Research Group) Faculty of Environment, Simon Fraser University TASC-1; Office 8420; 8888 University Drive Burnaby, British Columbia V5A 1S6, CANADA Office Phone: (778) 782-7375 Fax: (778)782-4968 E-mail: jalavasa(a)sfu.ca http://www.intechopen.com/profile/53467/juan_jose_alava Collaborating Scientist Charles Darwin Foundation Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador www.darwinfoundation.org

1 0

Post-doc Opportunity - Systematics and Evolutionary Relationships of Marine Mammals
by Daniel Odell 04 May '12

04 May '12

NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has statutory obligations to protect marine mammals within its Extended Economic Zone and beyond. Such protection requires thorough understanding of the natural history of the various groups, such as cetaceans, pinnipeds, and sirenians, including all levels of evolutionary relationships. The marine-mammal collection of over 11,000 specimens at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is a result of long-term collaboration between NMNH and NMFS and is one of the best in the world. The diversity of this collection allows broadly-based research on comparative morphology of systematic characters. The large number of specimens of many species permits analyses of variability among individuals, sexes, life-history stages. and geographic areas. Furthermore, the museum’s Laboratory for Analytical Biology, located at the Museum Support Center, provides the capability for state-of-the-art analyses for molecular systematics. We expect that the Associate will work with the National Collection at NMNH using combined morphological and molecular methods to investigate questions of importance to NMFS. Possible general directions for the research include (1) examination of taxonomic problems of complex groups of species and their populations, (2) phylogenetic and biogeographic investigations using molecular techniques in combination with morphological characters from specimens in museum collections, and (3) comparative studies examining evolution of life-history characteristics or biogeography. http://nrc58.nas.edu/RAPLab10/Opportunity/Opportunity.aspx?LabCode=26&ROPCD… ------------------------------------------------------------ Daniel K. Odell, Ph.D. Biological Consulting Divide, CO 80814

1 0

UF Aquatic Animal Health Distance Learning courses - summer registration closes soon
by Larkin,Iskande V 03 May '12

03 May '12

Hi All, I just wanted to send out a reminder: Registration is STILL OPEN for the summer and fall semester Aquatic Animal Health Distance Learning courses through the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. Learn from anywhere in the world! This summer we are offering a brand new course-- Manatee Health and Conservation! SUMMER registration will close May 11th. * Registration options are available for students seeking university credit or continuing education. These courses are designed for undergraduate students interested in this field of study as well as veterinary/graduate students and professionals already immersed in aquatic animal medicine. Spaces are LIMITED, Register TODAY! Summer & Fall 2012 Courses: • Aquatic Wildlife Health Issues<http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/a…> (Summer) Aquatic Wildlife Health Issues is a 3 credit course which introduces students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) to the natural history, anatomy, physiology, behavior and common health issues of aquatic species: whales and dolphins, seals and sea lions, manatees, sea turtles, crocodilians, fish and invertebrates. >Registration ends May 11th • Manatee Health and Conservation<http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/m…> (Summer) Manatee Health and Conservation is a 3 credit course that provides students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) a detailed overview of manatee natural history, health assessment, and research findings and explores conservation issues. >Registration ends May 11th • Aquatic Animal Conservation Issues<http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/a…> (Fall) Aquatic Animal Conservation Issues is a 3 credit course that will expose students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) to some of the controversial issues surrounding aquatic animal species ranging from invertebrates to marine mammals, with emphasis on marine mammals, but also including sea turtles, fisheries, and marine ecosystems. >Registration is Now Open! For more information contact us: Iske Larkin, PhD <mailto:ivlarkin@ufl.edu> Education Coordinator (352) 294-4095 ivlarkin(a)ufl.edu<mailto:ivlarkin@ufl.edu> AAH Distance Learning Webpage http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/ AAH Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/UFAquatic

1 0

Dolphin Research Courses in Slovenia
by Tilen Genov 02 May '12

02 May '12

Dolphin Research Courses in Slovenia, north Adriatic Morigenos – marine mammal research & conservation society is announcing Dolphin Research Courses in Slovenia (north Adriatic), where interested individuals can assist in the bottlenose dolphin and loggerhead turtle long-term research and conservation programme. For the 10th year in a row, the courses will be taking place in July, August and September 2012. *Morigenos *is a small research NGO that aims to combine scientific research, monitoring, education, public awareness, capacity building and management, to achieve effective conservation of the marine environment and biodiversity. More information about Morigenos work and its track record can be found at www.morigenos.org. The list of publications by Morigenos can be seen here: Publications<http://www.morigenos.org/index.php?path=Publications>. Slovenian Dolphin Project is a long-term research, monitoring and conservation programme, established in 2002 and focusing on bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) in Slovenian and adjacent waters in the northern Adriatic Sea. Bottlenose dolphins can be found in the area year-round and about 120 individuals have been photo-identified over the past 10 years. Research activities focus on dolphin distribution, abundance, behaviour, social structure, habitat use, feeding habits, fishery interactions and tourism impact, and aim to provide the scientific baseline for effective conservation of dolphins and their habitat. Apart from dolphins, the research team also undertakes research on loggerheard turtles (*Caretta caretta*), which visit this area between April and October. Morigenos Dolphin Research Camps offer interested people to join the research team for 10 days and participate in research activities. Thisincludes boat surveys, land-based watches, theodolite tracking, photo-identification and behavioural observations. All the necessary training is provided through lectures, practical work in the field, and short workshops. Food and accommodation are included. Anyone above the age of 16 can participate, regardless of nationality, academic background or previous experience. This course enables you to participate in day-to-day research activities, as well as obtain background knowledge of marine mammal science, marine biology and conservation. It is equally suitable for students pursuing a career in marine mammal science and for those without an academic interest in this topic. By the end of this course, you will: - have a better understanding of current issues in marine mammal and turtle conservation; - obtain an overview of different methods for studying marine mammals in the wild; - acquire practical experience of pleasures and frustrations of marine mammal field research. Detailed information, dates and costs can be found here: Morigenos Research Courses<http://www.morigenos.org/index.php?path=Raziskovalni_tabori_delfini> Applications There is no selection. Applications are treated on a "first-come, first-served" basis. Please send an e-mail to morigenos(a)morigenos.org for registration or questions. Tilen Genov Head of Research Morigenos - marine mammal research and conservation society Jarska cesta 36/a SI-1000 Ljubljana Slovenia www.morigenos.org http://www.facebook.com/Morigenos

1 0

Web link for Marine Mammals: Biology & Conservation course, 3-7 Sept 2012
by Peter G.H. Evans 01 May '12

01 May '12

Apologies for cross posting Those hoping to register for the Course on Marine Mammals; Biology and Conservation taking place in Valencia, Spain from 3-7 Sept 2012 (in yesterday's announcement to ECS-talk) have found difficulty logging on to the UIMP website to download forms. A separate link has now been set up. Please instead log onto: http://www.uimp.es/blogs/valencia/actividades/2012-marine-mammals-biology-a… kind regards, Peter Evans -- Dr Peter G.H. Evans Director Sea Watch Foundation, Ewyn y Don, Bull Bay, Amlwch, Isle of Anglesey Wales LL68 9SD Hon. Senior Lecturer School of Ocean Sciences, University of Bangor, Menai Bridge, Anglesey, Wales LL59 5AB Tel: 01407-832892 Mobile: 0776-556-6102 E-mail: peter.evans(a)bangor.ac.uk> -- Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig / Registered Charity No. 1141565 Gall y neges e-bost hon, ac unrhyw atodiadau a anfonwyd gyda hi, gynnwys deunydd cyfrinachol ac wedi eu bwriadu i'w defnyddio'n unig gan y sawl y cawsant eu cyfeirio ato (atynt). Os ydych wedi derbyn y neges e-bost hon trwy gamgymeriad, rhowch wybod i'r anfonwr ar unwaith a dil�wch y neges. Os na fwriadwyd anfon y neges atoch chi, rhaid i chi beidio � defnyddio, cadw neu ddatgelu unrhyw wybodaeth a gynhwysir ynddi. Mae unrhyw farn neu safbwynt yn eiddo i'r sawl a'i hanfonodd yn unig ac nid yw o anghenraid yn cynrychioli barn Prifysgol Bangor. Nid yw Prifysgol Bangor yn gwarantu bod y neges e-bost hon neu unrhyw atodiadau yn rhydd rhag firysau neu 100% yn ddiogel. Oni bai fod hyn wedi ei ddatgan yn uniongyrchol yn nhestun yr e-bost, nid bwriad y neges e-bost hon yw ffurfio contract rhwymol - mae rhestr o lofnodwyr awdurdodedig ar gael o Swyddfa Cyllid Prifysgol Bangor. www.bangor.ac.uk This email and any attachments may contain confidential material and is solely for the use of the intended recipient(s). If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete this email. If you are not the intended recipient(s), you must not use, retain or disclose any information contained in this email. Any views or opinions are solely those of the sender and do not necessarily represent those of Bangor University. Bangor University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of the text of the email, this email is not intended to form a binding contract - a list of authorised signatories is available from the Bangor University Finance Office. www.bangor.ac.uk

1 0

Data collection from US whale watching/platforms of opportunity
by Jooke Robbins 01 May '12

01 May '12

I am writing to request information from groups that are studying cetaceans from platforms of opportunity (especially whale watching vessels) in the United States. I compile information about these activities annually for a US Progress report to the International Whaling Commission. The annual summary contains very basic information on the institutions involved, the area and species studied, techniques used and data shared. Those who have provided information in previous years will be contacted directly for an update. Others who wish to be included in this summary should contact me at jrobbins(a)coastalstudies.org before May 7, 2012. Thanks in advance for your assistance. Cheers, Jooke -------------------------------------------- Jooke Robbins, Ph.D. Senior Scientist Director, Humpback Whale Studies Program Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies 5 Holway Avenue, Provincetown, MA 02657 ph: 508-487-3623 x116, fax: 508-487-4695 www.coastalstudies.org

1 0