October 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Twigg, G. I. "Marking mammals." Mammal Review 5.3 (1975): 101-116.
by Diego Rodríguez 04 Oct '14

04 Oct '14

Hi! I am trying to locate a pdf version of the classic: Twigg, G. I. "Marking mammals." Mammal Review 5.3 (1975): 101-116. I'll appreciate if someone can help me with that. Thanks! Diego -- Dr.Diego Rodríguez Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata-CONICET. Casilla de Correos 1260 (Correo Central) (7600) Mar del Plata, Argentina TE + 54 (0) 223 4754060 (Int.244) FAX +54 (0) 223 4753150 Skype: diego291162 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/136323163081610/ Website: http://mdp.academia.edu/DiegoRodriguez Website: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Diego_Rodriguez16 "Si los pueblos no se ilustran, si no se divulgan sus derechos, si cada hombre no conoce lo que puede, vale, debe, nuevas ilusiones sucederán a las antiguas y será tal vez nuestra suerte cambiar de tiranos sin destruir la tiranía" (Mariano Moreno)

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New publication
by Mariana Viglino 03 Oct '14

03 Oct '14

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article: Viglino, M., Flores, D. A., Ercoli, M. D. and Álvarez, A. (2014), Patterns of morphological variation of the vertebral column in dolphins. Journal of Zoology. doi: 10.1111/jzo.12177 Abstract Cetaceans swim by the alternate action of their epiaxial and hypaxial muscles and their propulsive movements are confined to the vertical plane. Changes in the shape and mechanical properties of vertebrae strongly affect their function during oscillatory swimming. The first objective of this study was to provide a quantitative characterization of vertebral morphology in representatives of the Delphinidae and Pontoporiidae families. A novel morphometric approach was applied, using nine vertebral measurements and three indices. The second objective was to assess the relationship between morphology and both habitat and size through regression analyses. The phylogenetic structure of the distribution of characters was also explored by estimating phylogenetic signal. No relationship was found between morphology and habitat or size, but vertebral measurements and indices showed a significant phylogenetic signal. Morphological profiles indicated that coastal and oceanic delphinid species had a conservative regionalization of the vertebral column. All delphinid species showed discoidal centra morphology, while Pontoporia blainvillei presented a spool-shaped morphology. Differences in vertebral morphology and inferred muscular architecture between P. blainvillei and delphinids could indicate distinct dynamics of vertebral movement during swimming. However, other complex and specific functional relationships and life-history traits may also be influencing vertebral morphology. The detailed study of the complex evolutionary history of lineages could bring to light other clarifying dimensions for understanding morphological evolution in odontocetes. The article can be access via http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jzo.12177/pdf or by requesting an electronic reprint from viglinomariana(a)yahoo.com.ar Thank you! Mariana Viglino Lic. Mariana Viglino Laboratorio de Paleontología Centro Nacional Patagónico - CONICET Boulevard Brown 2915 - U9120ACD Puerto Madryn - Chubut Argentina Tel: (+54) 0280-4883184 - Int: 1327 Fax: (+54) 0280-4883543 viglinomariana(a)yahoo.com.ar viglino(a)cenpat-conicet.gob.ar

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new print book on gray whales
by James Sumich 03 Oct '14

03 Oct '14

Dear Colleagues, I’m pleased to announce the publication of the print edition of my new book on gray whales to complement the digital edition released in early 2014. Title: E. robustus: The biology and human history of gray whales Format: 6”x9”, 199 pp. paperback 140 color photographs, maps and drawings Description: The transformation of our view of gray whales over the past century from devilfish to gentle giants has been nothing short of remarkable. Whether you are a casual whale watcher or an avid observer of these animals, there is something in this book for you. Extensively illustrated with color photographs, maps and line drawings, this book makes information on the biology and human history of gray whales accessible to readers unfamiliar with the scientific literature on the species. Topics range from early whaling activities and basic anatomy and migratory behavior of gray whales to the latest research on the radio-tracking and genetics of western gray whales, gray whales in captivity and the growth of modern whale-watching activities along the North American west coast. ISBN: 978-0-692-22542-4 LoC catalog #: QL737.C425 S82 2014 More information can be seen and it can be ordered from the publisher at http://www.thegraywhalebook.com I have also listed it (reluctantly) on Amazon (amazon.com) Search by title. Regards, Jim Sumich Oregon State University jlsumich1(a)gmail.com

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New evidence of Pacific sleeper shark predation on Steller sea lions in Alaska
by Horning, Markus 02 Oct '14

02 Oct '14

Dear Colleagues, we are pleased to announce a new publication in the journal Fishery Bulletin: Horning M, Mellish JE. 2014. In cold blood: evidence of Pacific sleeper shark (Somniosus pacificus) predation on Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) in the Gulf of Alaska. Fishery Bulletin 112:297-310. doi:10.7755/FB.112.4.6 This publication is available for open download and distribution via Fishery Bulletin: http://fishbull.noaa.gov/1124/horning.pdf Abstract—Temperature data received post mortem in 2008–13 from 15 of 36 juvenile Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) that had been surgically implanted in 2005–11 with dual life history transmitters (LHX tags) indicated that all 15 animals died by predation. In 3 of those 15 cases, at least 1 of the 2 LHX tags was ingested by a cold-blooded predator, and those tags recorded, immediately after the sea lion’s death, temperatures that corresponded to deepwater values. These tags were regurgitated or passed 5–11 days later by predators. Once they sensed light and air, the tags commenced transmissions as they floated at the ocean surface, reporting temperatures that corresponded to regional sea-surface estimates. The circumstances related to the tag in a fourth case were ambiguous. In the remaining 11 cases, tags sensed light and air immediately after the sea lion’s death and reported temperatures that corresponded to estimates of regional sea-surface temperatures. In these 11 cases, circumstances did not allow for inferences on the species of predator. Among reported poikilotherm predators of Steller sea lions, only the Pacific sleeper shark (Somniosus pacificus) is known to have body core temperatures that are near ambient. The data from this study indicate that Pacific sleeper sharks need to be considered as a possible source of mortality of juvenile Steller sea lions in the region of the Gulf of Alaska. 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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Correction: Ocean 180 Video Challenge Deadline
by Mallory Watson 02 Oct '14

02 Oct '14

Please note the message regarding the 2015 Ocean 180 Video Challenge posted on October 2nd listed an error. The correct deadline for video abstract submission is: December 1, 2014 (11:59pm PST) Thank you in advance for your understanding. We sincerely apologize for the mistake. Mallory Watson COSEE Florida Scientist Florida Institute of Technology 150 West University Boulevard Melbourne, Florida 32901 Phone: 732-996-5312 Email: mwatson(a)fit.edu<mailto:mwatson@fit.edu> Twitter: @Ocean180Video

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New Publication: Population genetics of Tursiops australis (Burrunan dolphin) in south-eastern Australia
by Kate Charlton-Robb 01 Oct '14

01 Oct '14

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the recent publication in Conservation Genetics, describing the genetic population structure of /Tursiops australis/ in south-eastern Australia. Charlton-Robb, K., Taylor, A.C., McKechnie, S.W. (2014) Population genetic structure of the Burrunan dolphin (/Tursiops australis/) in coastal waters of south-eastern Australia: conservation implications. Conservation Genetics. DOI 10.1007/s10592-014-0652-6 Abstract The Burrunan dolphin, /Tursiops australis/, is a newly described species endemic to southern Australian coastal waters. The current distribution ranges from South Australia, east to Victoria and south to Tasmania. In the eastern region of their range, only two known resident populations of /T. australis/ occur, Port Phillip Bay and the Gippsland Lakes. Little else is known about the population status and migration patterns of the species. Here we examine population genetics of /T. australis/ using ten microsatellite loci and two sequences of mitochondrial DNA, the control region (~450 bp) and cytochrome b (~1,200 bp). A total of 163 /T. australis/ samples were collected from various locations across the Victorian and Tasmanian coastlines. Genetic data showed the highest differentiation between the Port Phillip Bay and both Gippsland Lakes and Tasmanian samples. Network analysis, using concatenated mtDNA sequences, showed geographic segregation and Bayesian analysis, using microsatellite data, also supported the presence of two genetic clusters. Both microsatellite and mtDNA data indicated low genetic diversity when compared to levels reported for other dolphins. Maternal philopatry was suggested for Port Phillip Bay in particular. Our data suggest that /T. australis/ from coastal waters of south-eastern Australia consists of two populations with little or no contemporary gene ﬂow; one occurs in Port Phillip Bay; the second extends from the east coast of Tasmania across Bass Strait to Gippsland Lakes. /Tursiops australis/ appears to be characterised by small, localised, genetically distinct populations and should thus be further assessed under local, national and international threatened species criteria. The publication is available “Online First” via http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10592-014-0652-6 Kind Regards, Kate Charlton-Robb -- Dr Kate-Charlton-Robb Principal Researcher Australian Marine Mammal Conservation Foundation PO Box 2046 Hampton East VIC 3188 e: kcr(a)ammcf.org.au m: 0416227575 w: ammcf.org.au

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New paper on object manipulation using water flow in captive dolphins
by 山本知里 01 Oct '14

01 Oct '14

Dear MARMAM subscribers, I'm pleased to announce the following paper on object manipulation using water flow in captive dolphins: Yamamoto C, Furuta K, Taki M, Morisaka T (2014) Captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) spontaneously using water flow to manipulate object. PLos ONE 9 (9): e107796. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107796 [Abstract]　Several terrestrial animals and delphinids manipulate objects in a tactile manner, using parts of their bodies, such as their mouths or hands. In this paper, we report that bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) manipulate objects not by direct bodily contact, but by spontaneous water flow. Three of four dolphins at Suma Aqualife Park performed object manipulation with food. The typical sequence of object manipulation consisted of a three step procedure. First, the dolphins released the object from the sides of their mouths while assuming a head-down posture near the floor. They then manipulated the object around their mouths and caught it. Finally, they ceased to engage in their head-down posture and started to swim. When the dolphins moved the object, they used the water current in the pool or moved their head. These results showed that dolphins manipulate objects using movements that do not directly involve contact between a body part and the object. In the event the dolphins dropped the object on the floor, they lifted it by making water flow in one of three methods: opening and closing their mouths repeatedly, moving their heads lengthwise, or making circular head motions. This result suggests that bottlenose dolphins spontaneously change their environment to manipulate objects. The reason why aquatic animals like dolphins do object manipulation by changing their environment but terrestrial animals do not may be that the viscosity of the aquatic environment is much higher than it is in terrestrial environments. This is the first report thus far of any non-human mammal engaging in object manipulation using several methods to change their environment. This is an open-access and everyone can download this paper from the following site: http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0107796 Please email me at "kurousagi0914(a)gmail.com" if you have any trouble to download it. All the best, Chisato Yamamoto

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Bio-Waves Passive Acoustic Technology Training Course - early registration extended to Oct 8
by Julie Oswald 01 Oct '14

01 Oct '14

Due to popular demand, early registration for the 4-day Bio-Waves Passive Acoustic Technology training course has been extended to *Wednesday October 8, 2014*. After this date, a $100 late registration fee will be applied to the cost of tuition. The course scheduled to occur Tuesday, November 11th through Friday November 14th, 2014 at the San Diego Supercomputer Center at the University of California, San Diego. Spaces are limited and filling quickly, so registering as soon as possible is highly recommended. To register or obtain more information about the course please visit *www.bio-waves.com <http://www.bio-waves.com/> *and click on the "Passive Acoustic Technology Training Course" button on the bottom of the main page. [image: Inline image 1] The 4-day Passive Acoustic Technology training course combines lectures covering concepts, theory and methods with hands-on hardware demonstrations and computer training. The aim of the course is to give participants a working knowledge of passive acoustic hardware, software and methods used to study and monitor marine mammals. The training course will familiarize individuals with passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) equipment and best practices, as well as offer instruction on troubleshooting and field repairs. We will teach the basic skills required to prepare individuals for work in the field as well as post processing in the lab. We will cover methods used for research as well as mitigation and monitoring. This course will be held at the University of California, San Diego Supercomputer Center in La Jolla, California. The training course will include the following: - An introduction to the physics of underwater sound (lectures) - An introduction to marine mammal acoustics (lectures) - An introduction to PAM hardware such as hydrophones, sonobuoys and autonomous recorders (lectures and demo) - Instruction on the design, setup, troubleshooting and repair of towed hydrophone array systems (Demo and hands-on training) - Training in software used to detect, localize, and classify sounds produced by marine mammals (lectures, computer laboratory work and demos) - Training in software used to review and post-process acoustic data (lectures and computer laboratory work) - Lectures on the role of passive acoustic methods in mitigation and marine mammal monitoring - Lectures on best practices for effective acoustic data collection and management - Guest lectures from subject area experts (e.g., scientists from local research institutes such as UCSD’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography) At the conclusion of the course, participants will have gained a working knowledge of the theoretical and practical aspects of passive acoustic system design, operation, and maintenance. They will have had hands-on experience with a variety of software programs commonly used during real-time field operations and for data review and analysis. Additionally, participants will have performed specific hardware tasks (e.g. repairing cables, troubleshooting acoustic systems etc.), and will receive a set of materials for reference in the field. For those participants that are interested, we are pleased to offer course credit for the training course through the University of California, San Diego's Extension Program. Four quarter units are available via a separate UCSD application and fees. To register or obtain more information about the course please visit *www.bio-waves.com <http://www.bio-waves.com/>* and click on the "Passive Acoustic Technology Training Course" button on the bottom of the main page. A $300 non-refundable deposit towards the $1,450 total fee will be required to secure your position in the course. This cost includes a light breakfast and catered lunch each day. Early registration ends on *Wednesday October 8th*, after which a $100 late registration fee will be applied to the total. Limited space is available at a discounted rates for groups of three or more or graduate students; discounts are available on a first come, first served basis. Also, while lodging is not available on UCSD campus, we have a list of local hotels, some of which provide discounts if attending events on campus, and will assist in coordinating room and ride share between registrants via email prior to the training. Please contact education(a)bio-waves.net with any questions. We look forward to seeing you this fall! -- "If you have the desire for knowledge and the power to give it physical expression, go out and explore" -Apsley Cherry-Garrard

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Graduate position: Marine mammal ecological and evolutionary genomics at University of Groningen
by Michael GMAIL 01 Oct '14

01 Oct '14

(Sorry for the duplicate. Here is the PhD advertise with the correct link to apply) The Marine Evolution and Conservation (MarECon) group at the Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies (CEES) has a vacancy for a (funded) PhD position. CEES is placed within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the University of Groningen (RUG) in The Netherlands. The research conducted by the members of MarECon is primarily aimed at understanding the ecological and evolutionary genomics of pelagic marine organisms, in particular marine mammals. Our primary research approach is to leverage population genetics and genomics techniques to uncover the processes that partition genetic variation within the species that inhabit this comparatively open marine environment. This research is conducted with a global network of collaborators who collect data and tissue samples in the field. Job description The research project is flexible and the successful candidate will have the choice to focus on some ongoing projects in the lab. Most of these projects include a major component of (genetic) data analyses and bioinformatics, some include the production of genomic data in the lab (using Next Generation Sequencing Technologies, NGS), and on rare occasion field sampling trips. Comparative genomics in marine mammals Our lab is actively engaged in the production and analyses of whole genomes from marine mammals using NGS technologies. The ultimate goal is to analyze the molecular evolution of genes across the genome of the three marine lineages of mammals that came back to an aquatic existence and identify candidate genomic regions that could have been involved in this major transition. This project will consist of primarily bioinformatic, population genetic and genomic approaches. Evolution of marine trophic networks Climate change and human activities have deeply impacted the evolution and functioning of marine ecosystems. Using a number of model systems, we are exploring how environmental and human perturbations have actually impacted various species at different trophic levels, and further understand the link between them. To make inferences about past and recent evolution of these ecosystems, and make predictions about their future evolution we will be combining ecological, historical and population genetic modeling. Statistical phylogeography, demographic history and evolution in marine mammals Our lab has a long standing interest in understanding the factors and processes involved in the partitioning of individuals and thus the genetic variation within and among populations, ecotypes and subspecies. This is fundamental to understand key evolutionary and ecological processes, such as adaptation, behaviour, and speciation. This is also crucial for many conservation issues. Therefore, our approach is multidisciplinary and combines population genetics/genomics, geo-statistical probabilistic modeling with ecological approaches such as (paleo-) habitat modeling, feeding ecology, etc. Our research focuses on various (pelagic) species, particularly for marine mammals. For example, we are currently developing projects on the demographic history and evolutionary genomics of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) and the comparative phylogeography of marine mammals, among other projects. Qualifications We seek a bright and highly motivated and enthusiastic person able to work both as part of a team and independently. The ideal candidate would have a master degree in ecology and evolutionary biology, with good background in population genetics, bioinformatics, genomics and computational biology. Candidates from other programs such as computational sciences, bioinformatics, and mathematics with a strong interest in ecology and evolution are also invited to apply. Proficiency with R statistical language, Linux/UNIX shell scripting, and (at least) a high level programming language (e.g. Python) is recommended. Experience with NGS technologies, Geographic Information System, SQL data bases is a plus, but full training will be provided. The language in the lab is English. A high standard of spoken and written English is required. Conditions of employment The University of Groningen offers a salary of € 2,083 gross per month in the first year up to a maximum of € 2,664 gross per month in the final year (salary scale Dutch Universities). Initially, the position will be for 1 year with possible extension of another 3 years, depending on performance during the first year. The PhD candidate will be evaluated after the first year in order to determine the likelihood of a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the following three years. If a successful completion is deemed unlikely, the employment will not be extended. The main objective of the position is to conduct original research published as research articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals. These publications will form the basis of the doctoral thesis that will lead to obtaining a PhD degree (Dr) at the University of Groningen. The candidate will be enrolled in the RUG Graduate School of Science, and attend graduate courses within the Research School Ecology and Evolution. The PhD student will be supervised by Dr Michael C. Fontaine. Application To apply for the position, please provide: (i) a letter of maximum 2 pages describing your personal motivation for applying for this position, outlining skills and experience pertinent to the position and past experience. In addition, please include a brief explanation of what you think the main research questions in evolution and conservation are today for marine mammals and that you would like to develop during your PhD; (ii) a complete curriculum vitae including publication list; and (iii) names and contact details (addresses, emails, and telephone numbers) for three referees willing to write confidential letters of recommendation. Complete applications should be submitted before 14 November 2014, Dutch local time by means of the application form (“Apply” link) on the university website : http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us/job-opportunities/overview?details=… Interviews will be planned shortly after November 2014. The ideal starting date would be around January 2015. Information Advertise and “apply” link for the application on the university website: http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us/job-opportunities/overview?details=… Information on the PhD, contact Dr Michael C. Fontaine (m.c.fontaine(a)rug.nl, do not use for applications) Groningen, Netherlands: http://www.rug.nl/education/why-choose-groningen The University of Groningen (RuG): http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us CEES: http://www.rug.nl/research/cees MarECon: http://www.rug.nl/research/marine-evolution-and-conservation -- ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º>¸. `·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸¸·´¯`·.. ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º> Marine Evolution and Conservation Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies University of Groningen Nijenborgh 7 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands Email: m.c.fontaine(a)rug.nl Google scholar profile: http://scholar.google.nl/citations?hl=en&user=rvFE0t4AAAAJ&view_op=list_wor… http://michaelcfontaine.wordpress.com

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Ocean 180 Video Challenge- Now accepting submissions
by Mallory Watson 01 Oct '14

01 Oct '14

The 2015 Ocean 180 Video Challenge is now accepting submissions! Sponsored by the Florida Center for Ocean Science Education Excellence (COSEE Florida) and funded through a grant from the National Science Foundation, Ocean 180 challenges scientists to create a 3 minute video abstract that effectively communicates the meaning, significance, and relevance of published ocean science research to general audiences. Videos must be related to a scientific paper that the submitting scientist has published within the past five years. Entries are initially screened and evaluated by a team of science and communication experts to determine the top ten finalists, but the winners are ultimately selected by student judges from 6th-8th grade classrooms around the world. Over 22,000 students in 16 countries will participate in evaluating the finalists this year, selecting the videos they feel best communicate the results and implications of the research. A total of $9,000 in cash prizes will be awarded to the winning entries. This is a fantastic way to practice your communication skills and provides a significant opportunity to broaden the impact of your research efforts. We hope to see your entry submitted to Ocean 180 this fall! Submissions will be accepted until December 1, 2015 (11:59pm PST) using our online form here: http://ocean180.org/for-scientists/video-abstract-submission.html Information, previous winners, and full contest guidelines can be found at http://ocean180.org All questions may be directed to info(a)ocean180.org<mailto:info@ocean180.org> Who is eligible to submit an entry? Ocean scientists of all career stages, including undergraduate and graduate students, are eligible to submit. Entries can be submitted by individuals or teams. Individual entrants or team leaders must be (1) a coauthor of the original published paper and (2) affiliated with a U.S.-based institution at the time of submission and/or a U.S. citizen. There are no restrictions on the affiliations and nationalities of the remaining team members. There is no limit to the number of entries that may be submitted by a single scientist, but an individual entrant cannot submit more than one video entry per publication. Mallory Watson COSEE Florida Scientist Florida Institute of Technology 150 West University Boulevard Melbourne, Florida 32901 Phone: 732-996-5312 Email: mwatson(a)fit.edu<mailto:mwatson@fit.edu> Twitter: @Ocean180Video

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