March 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Program of the Pelagos Sanctuary Workshop "scientific progress on cetaceans and perspectives in the Pelagos Sanctuary"
by Fannie Dubois 19 Mar '14

19 Mar '14

Dear All, In the framework of the 28th ECS Conference, Pelagos Sanctuary organizes a workshop entitled "scientific progress on cetaceans and perspectives in the Pelagos Sanctuary", which will be held in Liège, the 5th of April 2014 during all the day. Click here to download the program. If you would like to attend the workshop, please fill in the registration form for participant and return it to secretariat(a)sanctuaire-pelagos.org. Please kindly note that number of places is limited. To plan your travel (travel and accommodation), please consult the ECS website. Thank you for your kind attention. Feel free to contact the Permanent Secretariat should you need any further information. Best regards, Fannie Dubois --- Fannie Dubois – Executive Secretary PELAGOS SANCTUARY Palazzo Ducale - Piazza Matteotti, 9 16123 Genova (ITALIA) Tel: +39 010 570 22 01 / +33 9771 9771 4 Email: fanniedubois(a)sanctuaire-pelagos.org Website: www.sanctuaire-pelagos.org

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EXTENDED DEADLINE: Abstract submissions for AFS symposium on Marine mammals & Fisheries interactions
by Lyne Morissette 19 Mar '14

19 Mar '14

Dear Marmam colleagues, We are responsible of a special symposium on Marine mammals & fisheries interactions during the American Fisheries Society 144th annual meeting, August 17-21 2014 in Québec City. A brief description of the symposia is provided below. EXTENDED DEADLINE: you can submit your abstract through the AFS system online at www.afs2014.org/symposia, and by selecting the "marine mammals & fisheries interactions" tab. Exceptionally, the system will be opened March 20 & 21 for those of you who haven't got the time to submit before the 14th. For any question, please contact me at lyne.morissette(a)globetrotter.net Hope to see you there! Lyne Marine mammal and fisheries interactions : management challenges in a changing world. Interactions between marine mammals and fisheries can be either direct (or operational), through bycatch, depredation and disturbance, or indirect (or ecological) through competition, trophic interactions, or habitat degradation. In both cases, this pose serious conservation challenges, and this has become an increasingly important topic in managing marine ecosystems and the species they support, resulting in new paradigms in fisheries management. Direct interactions between marine mammals and fisheries pose some of the most serious and immediate threats to the animals and thus represent some important conservation challenges. Giving the current status of global fisheries, the chances of having marine mammals interacting with fishing gear is increasing. There are various way marine mammals can directly interact with fisheries, such as bycatch and depredation, and a lot of research is done to mitigate the problem. Trophic interactions between marine mammals and fisheries have been the subject for considerable research during the last decade. However, the extent to which the issue is addressed in an ecosystem, a multi-species context, is still limited. Consequently, there is still a lack of unequivocal evidence for competition between marine mammals and fisheries on a global scale. This may be due to (1) the absence of appropriately scaled information on marine mammals’ diet and ecology; (2) the lack of consideration of all trophic groups in the ecosystems where these interactions might happen or (3) the indirect effects being more important than initially thought in foodwebs. The aim of this symposia is to present an update on our knowledge of direct and indirect interactions between marine mammals and fisheries, to bring fisheries scientists and marine mammal experts together and discuss ideas on how to adapt to these issues in a time of changing marine ecosystems. Lyne Morissette, Ph.D. Écologie des écosystèmes & mammifères marins Marine mammals & ecosystem ecology 418.750.5685 M(a)M-expertisemarine.com www.m-expertisemarine.com

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New publication on cultural hitchhiking in bottlenose dolphins
by Anna Kopps 19 Mar '14

19 Mar '14

Dear Marmamers, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our latest article "Cultural transmission of tool use combined with habitat specializations leads to fine-scale genetic structure in bottlenose dolphins" in Proceedings of the Royal Society, B. Abstract: Socially learned behaviours leading to genetic population structure have rarely been described outside humans. Here, we provide evidence of fine-scale genetic structure that has likely arisen based on socially transmitted behaviours in bottlenose dolphins (/Tursiops/ sp.) in western Shark Bay, Western Australia. We argue that vertical social transmission in different habitats has led to significant geographical genetic structure of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotypes. Dolphins with mtDNA haplotypes E or F are found predominantly in deep (more than 10 m) channel habitat, while dolphins with a third haplotype (H) are found predominantly in shallow habitat (less than 10 m), indicating a strong haplotype--habitat correlation. Some dolphins in the deep habitat engage in a foraging strategy using tools. These 'sponging' dolphins are members of one matriline, carrying haplotype E. This pattern is consistent with what had been demonstrated previously at another research site in Shark Bay, where vertical social transmission of sponging had been shown using multiple lines of evidence. Using an individual-based model, we found support that in western Shark Bay, socially transmitted specializations may have led to the observed genetic structure. The reported genetic structure appears to present an example of cultural hitchhiking of mtDNA haplotypes on socially transmitted foraging strategies, suggesting that, as in humans, genetic structure can be shaped through cultural transmission. The abstract can be viewed here: http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/281/1782/20133245.abstract For any questions or requests for the PDF, please email corresponding author Dr. Anna Kopps at: anna.kopps(a)gmx.com <mailto:anna.kopps@gmx.com>. Best, Anna

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Join CIRCE to work on cetaceans of the Strait of Gibraltar
by CIRCE Philippe Verborgh 18 Mar '14

18 Mar '14

Dear MARMAMers, The research group CIRCE (http://www.circe.info) offers the possibility to take part in a field course on cetacean research techniques as a research assistant in the Strait of Gibraltar. CIRCE has been studying the seven species of cetaceans inhabiting the waters of the Strait of Gibraltar since 1999 and has already gained a lot of knowledge on these populations. The Strait of Gibraltar is an amazing place to study cetaceans since 4 species (long-finned pilot whales, bottlenose, common and striped dolphins) are resident and use a small area all year round at about 40 min from shore. In Spring-Summer killer and sperm whales also join the area for foraging purposes while fin whales are migrating through the Strait. We are offering you the opportunity to spend 12 days (or more) with our team of experts in the field and at the research station to learn all about the cetaceans of the Strait of Gibraltar. Activities will include but are not limited to: - Boat-based surveys and data collection at sea whenever the weather conditions are suitable - Personal work on photo-ID matching. - General presentations on the cetaceans inhabiting the Strait of Gibraltar - Presentation of the different methodologies to study these species (photo-ID, biopsy sampling, diet using stable isotopes, population genetics, satellite tracking…) - Presentation of the latest results from our research and their contribution to the conservation of the species of the Strait - Presentation of all the ongoing research projects No previous knowledge about cetacean and/or marine science is required as we will adapt the presentations and missions according to the level of knowledge of the participants. However a good mood and enthusiasm is welcome. Lectures will be available in English, French or Spanish. Prices are 990€ per trip (800€ for students) including housing, food, surveys at sea, training of research methods, transport and additional activities. This price does not include your trip to and from Algeciras or Tarifa, Spain. You will find all the information about dates, what is included in the price etc. on our website (available also in French and Spanish): http://www.circe.info/~circe/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9… Scientific publications can also be found on our website (available also in French and Spanish): http://www.circe.info/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=84&Itemi… Don’t miss this unique opportunity to meet researchers in the field and to enjoy the amazing wildlife of the Strait of Gibraltar! For more information you can contact us at: philippe(at)circe.info Philippe VERBORGH CIRCE (Conservation, Information and Research on Cetaceans) C/ Cabeza de Manzaneda, 3 11390 Pelayo-Algeciras Cádiz Spain www.circe.info facebook.com/Circe.org twitter.com/Circe_org philippe(at)circe.info

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Summer cetacean surveys between Barcelona and Balearic Islands
by info＠edmaktub.com 18 Mar '14

18 Mar '14

Dear all, EDMAKTUB Association is seeking volunteers for this year summer cetacean research trip in the Mediterranean Sea, Spain. Survey Date: From 21st to 27th of July 2014. DESCRIPTION: EDMAKTUB association for the study and disclosure of aquatic environment, specially focused in the study of cetaceans, offer places for volunteers for this year summer campaigns of BCNCET-CETCAT project. The aim of the project is to study the cetacean species in the Mediterranean Sea (Catalan-Balearic area). The association catamaran will sail around the Balearic Sea, between the Catalan coast and the Balearic Islands. It will departure from the Barcelona harbour the 21st of July (early morning) and will arrive to Barcelona the 27th of July. Visual and acoustical surveys, studying the distribution, behaviour, and sound production of the sighted species will be conducted from early morning to evening during the 7 days on board. The assistants will be able to learn: species identification, environmental and behavioural data collection, sound collection, sound tracking and basic marine navigating skills (Equivalent to MMO and PAM practices). Moreover an innovative and non-invasive methodology based on the use of remote control model airplanes or drones (multicopters) for the cetacean study is going to be used, as they transmit real-time images of animals and allow to capture these images, as well as, use it for possible biological-sampling. Accommodation and food is provided by the association during the 7 days, but assistants are required to contribute with 800 for general campaign expenses. Travel expenses are not included. No previous experience is required, as the scientists present in the campaign will provide all the necessary information and teach assistants. If you are interested or would like to have more information, please write us sending your curriculum vitae at: info(a)edmaktub.com Thanks! All the Edmaktub team

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Marketing, Sales & Events Manager/Director position
by Human Resources 17 Mar '14

17 Mar '14

The Alaska SeaLife Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems is seeking applications for the following: *Marketing, Sales and Events Manager/Director* This position is responsible for marketing, sales, communications, advertising and events at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Serves as co-chair of the cross-functional Visitor Team. Must believe in the core values of the ASLC and be driven by the mission. *Education and Experience Requirements:* Bachelor's degree in a related field and seven years' experience in similar position (ten years preferred) with a minimum of three years supervisory experience (five years preferred) or the equivalent. *Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):* 1. Serves as the Center's lead on marketing and sales activities with various professional tourism companies and marketing associations. Develops annual sales initiatives, visitor projections and makes presentations to potential customers, both at the ASLC and in external venues. Monitors and provides analysis of marketing and sales effectiveness. Implements corrective measures, when necessary. Oversees the creation, placement and tracking of advertising as well as develops strategic plans, policies and advertising strategies. 2. Manages the "public face" of the Center and key interactions with media, members and friends - leads development of written materials for public relations events, press releases, feature articles, annual reports and all media-related requests. Communicates to the media and general public in a timely and positive manner. Oversees the Center photo and presentation database. Oversees the ASLC Facebook account and other social media programs (e.g. Twitter); establishes protocols for their use and limitations. Enhances branding and manages the use of the Center's logo. 3. Works with ASLC staff, within their areas of expertise, to help provide supporting materials for web updates, proposals, exhibits and communications. Ensures accuracy in all written and media representations of the Center's work and operations. 4. Coordinates with all departments to facilitate events, including fundraising events, member events, staff events, and facility rentals. Works closely with the Development Department to create a seamless plan for all fundraising events, maintaining primary responsibility for decorations, logistics, food & beverage, venue, and staffing. 5. Conducts VIP, media and FAM facility tours as needed. 6. Ensures proper control and administration of all assigned resources including annual budget allocations, capital improvements, fixed assets, equipment, supplies, and purchasing authorities. Maintains cost-effective oversight of expenditures. 7. Supervises personnel matters within the department. Assigns and checks work, establishes schedules, sets deadlines, and delegates authority. Sets performance standards for staff. Prepares annual performance evaluations. Makes department related personnel recommendations. 8. Ensures all department personnel are properly trained and equipped for their assigned tasks, and conducts or arranges for training as necessary to carry out the department's objectives. 9. Assists the President and CEO with formulating the Center's policies and procedures as they relate to Sales, Marketing and Events and ensures they are accurate, current, and in compliance with federal, state and local regulations. Reviews and updates policies as laws change. 10. Coordinates resources with the Development, Husbandry, Research, Education, Facilities and Operations Directors to ensure that projects are completed in a timely manner to support the Center's mission and success. 11. When requested by the President and CEO, communicates with members of the Board of Directors and their assigned committees concerning matters affecting the Center. 12. Keeps the President and CEO informed of the Department's status and problems. 13. Innovates ways to enhance and improve Center operations, within budgetary resources. 14. Maintains official ASLC records in accordance with the current Records Retention Policy and Schedule. This is a full-time position. ASLC offers a competitive wage (DOE) and benefits package. *Apply by:* Open until filled *Start Date:* ASAP Send resume & application (downloadable at www.alaskasealife.org) to HR(a)alaskasealife.org. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. *EO/AA** Employer* Human Resources Alaska SeaLife Center

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Registration for the 3rd International Marine Conservation Congress is Now Open
by jake levenson 17 Mar '14

17 Mar '14

Registration for the 3rd International Marine Conservation Congress is Now Open Share with friends, colleagues, organizations & listservs! The 3rd International Marine Conservation Congress will be held from 14-18 August 2014 at the Scottish Exhibition & Conference Centre, Glasgow, Scotland, UK. Registration for the congress is now open, and information on registering can be found one the Meeting Registration page of the IMCC3 website: http://www.conbio.org/mini-sites/imcc-2014/registration-participation/meeti…. (A pdf of registration fees is available here: http://www.conbio.org/images/content_conferences/IMCC3_VAT_Reg_Form_15_Marc….) To take advantage of reduced early registration rates, you must register for IMCC3 by 22 April 2014. SCB Marine Section members received reduced rates on IMCC3 registration! In fact, the money you save from becoming an official member is greater than the cost of membership. Joining is easy and can be done at the SCB Membership website: http://www.conbio.org/membership/become-a-member. Check your membership renewal by logging in to yourmembership page. Click "Join a Section" under My Society Involvement to become an official member of the Marine Section. (You can be a member of up to two sections.) The review process is underway for submitted abstracts, and decisions are coming soon. Jacob Levenson Ecologist, Educator, All-Around Good Guy http://www.JacobLevenson.com

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Development Manager position open, Marine Mammal Care Center at Fort MacArthur
by forums＠marinemammalcare.org 17 Mar '14

17 Mar '14

The Marine Mammal Care Center at Fort MacArthur (MMCC/FM), a hospital for sick and injured seals and sea lions, is seeking a Marketing and Development manager with a strong background in fundraising, outreach and non-profit management. A degree in marketing or business management is required, as well as four years experience working in non-profit fundraising. The ideal candidate will be adept at working with and balancing the needs of several affiliated organizations. Applicants should be able to demonstrate knowledge of tax and nonprofit requirements, have the ability to maintain copious donation records and possess a track record of moving smaller organizations toward large-scale capital growth. This position may require travel throughout the Southern California area for networking and outreach duties. Individuals local to the San Pedro/Southern California area (or willing to relocate) are preferred. We are an equal employment opportunity employer and participate in E-Verify. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race/ethnicity, protected veteran status, disability, or other protected group status. Please send cover letter and Cv to: Marine Mammal Care Center at Fort MacArthur 3601 South Gaffey Street, #8 San Pedro, CA 90731 Attn: David Bard www.marinemammalcare.org

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New Publication on Caribbean orcas
by Jaime Bolanos 17 Mar '14

17 Mar '14

Dear MARMAMers: On behalf of senior authors Jolanda Luksenburg and Antonio Mignucci and our coauthors, I am very happy to announce the publication online of our article: Bolaños-Jiménez, J., Mignucci-Giannoni, A., Blumenthal, J., Bogomolni, A., Casas, J.J., Henríquez, A., Iñíguez, M., Khan, J., Landrau-Giovannetti, N., Rinaldi, C., Rinaldi, R., Rodríguez-Ferrer, G., Sutty, L., Ward, N. & Luksenburg, J. 2014. Distribution, feeding habits and morphology of killer whales Orcinus orca in the Caribbean Sea. Mammal Review. doi:10.1111/mam.12021 Abstract below. PDFs available upon request, from Jaime Bolaños, bolanos.jimenez(a)gmail.com, Jolanda Luksenburg, j.luksenburg(a)yahoo.com and Antonio Mignucci, mignucci(a)manatipr.org Abstract 1. Killer whales Orcinus orca are found in all oceans of the world, but most of our knowledge on the species comes from studies conducted at higher latitudes. Studies on killer whales in the Caribbean have been scarce. 2. We compiled 176 records of killer whales from the Caribbean, including 95 previously unreported records and 81 records recovered from the literature, consisting of 27 capture or kill records, 4 stranding records and 145 sighting records. 3. Our results indicate that killer whales are widespread in the Caribbean Sea and can be found year-round in the region. Mean group size was 3.7 animals. A diversity of prey items was recorded, including sea turtles and marine mammals and possibly fish. We cannot exclude ecotype or morphotype-specific dietary specialization in the Caribbean population. A preliminary morphological analysis of 10 characters in 52 individuals from 21 different groups suggests that Caribbean killer whales do not represent any of the four Antarctic and subantarctic types, type 1 from the northwest Atlantic, or ‘resident’ and ‘transient’ killer whales from the northwest Pacific. Some Caribbean killer whales share a combination of characters typical of type 2 in the North Atlantic, whereas others share those typical of ‘offshore’ killer whales in the northwest Pacific. The significance of this is unclear. Comparison of Caribbean killer whales to previously described morphotypes and ecotypes is hampered by the lack of detailed, quantitative data on variation within other types, as well as by the lack of comparisons of genetic diversity. 4. Our study adds to the growing knowledge of the diversity of killer whales worldwide, but underscores that additional research is warranted in the tropics. With warm regards, Jaime Bolaños-Jiménez

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JOBS: Aquarium of the Pacific Marine Mammal Photo ID internship
by Fundy Art 17 Mar '14

17 Mar '14

Join the Boats Coordinator on data collection for blue whales, fin whales, and humpback whales during our daily whale watching cruises, as well as interpreting data to guests at the Aquarium. This is a great opportunity for college students and recent graduates to gain valuable experience. * * *Commitment: 15-20 hours/week for 15 weeks starting beginning on September* * * *Responsibilities include, but are not limited to* * Taking dorsal fin photos of animals encountered during daily whale watching cruises (these are opportunistic sightings as we are a public whale watching boat) * Maintain detailed data logs of sightings and enter them into ACCESS databases * Answer questions and interpreting for guests on board. * Photo processing and IDing individual whales seen during daily trips * Create a project to display to Aquarium guests using whale data * Maintain Whale App database For more information and the online application, visit http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/volunteer/college_internships/ Application deadline is March 31, 2014 Kera Mathes Education Specialist Aquarium of the Pacific (562) 951-1651 KMathes(a)lbaop.org <mailto:KMathes@lbaop.org> "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead _______________________________________________ MARMAM mailing list MARMAM(a)lists.uvic.ca https://lists.uvic.ca/mailman/listinfo/marmam

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