September 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

new paper on walrus demography
by Taylor, Rebecca 09 Sep '14

09 Sep '14

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of Taylor, R. L. and M. S. Udevitz. Demography of the Pacific walrus (*Odobenus rosmarus divergens*): 1974-2006. Marine Mammal Science DOI: 10.1111/mms.12156. This study provides the first rigorous estimates of Pacific walrus survival rates, in addition to updating decades old estimates of reproductive rates and population growth rates. We obtained these results by developing a hidden process Bayesian model that described demographic processes from 1974-2006, and combined information from five population size estimates, six standing age structure estimates, one estimate each of high and low reproductive rates, and annual age-specific harvest records. The article can be accessed via http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/enhanced/doi/10.1111/mms.12156/ or by requesting an electronic reprint from me at rebeccataylor(a)usgs.gov. Regards, Rebecca Taylor -- Rebecca Taylor Research Statistician USGS Alaska Science Center 4210 University Drive Anchorage, AK 99508 907-786-7004 rebeccataylor(a)usgs.gov

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MSc Opportunity
by Stephen Petersen 09 Sep '14

09 Sep '14

Dear MARMAM readers, We are looking for a M.Sc. student to start in January 2015 at University of Manitoba. The research project "Ringed Seal Trends in Abundance Inferred from Genetics" will involve identifying fluctuations in ringed seal (Pusa hispida) effective population size and determining how results can contribute to seal co-management in Nunavut, Canada. Applicants should be Canadian residents, highly motivated, independent, and have an excellent academic record. Students already with scholarships will be prioritized, but having funding is not a requirement. The Supervisory team consists of Dr. Stephen Petersen (Conservation and Research Department, Assiniboine Park Zoo) and Dr. Steve Ferguson (Arctic Aquatic Research Division, Fisheries and Oceans Canada). Interested applicants should submit a CV and brief letter (< 1 page) by October 15th 2014 explaining their interest in pursuing a M.Sc. in general, and in this project in particular, to Stephen Petersen (conservationresearch at assiniboinepark.ca).

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job opening: Bioacoustics Software Developer
by Dave Mellinger 09 Sep '14

09 Sep '14

Bioacoustics Software Developer: This fixed-term, 12-month position [meaning 12 months per year) within a NOAA-sponsored cooperative institute at Oregon State University in Newport, Oregon is responsible for software development for detection and localization of marine organisms and for other programming in support of funded projects. For full details and to apply see the following link: https://jobs.oregonstate.edu; posting #0012954. For questions, please email Jessica.Waddell(a)oregonstate.edu. OSU is an AA/EOE/Vets/Disabled.

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Last Call: CRRU GIS Field Course in Scotland, 6-16 Oct 2014
by Dr Kevin Robinson 09 Sep '14

09 Sep '14

Teaming up with GIS In Ecology once again in 2014, the Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit (CRRU) is offering a 10 day residential GIS course at their field base in Gardenstown in northeast Scotland from 6 to 16 October. The course will incorporate a custom-designed 4-5 day GIS module (including course manuals and materials) from GIS In Ecology ( <http://www.gisinecology.com/> www.GISinEcology.com) taught by Dr. Colin MacLeod/Dr. Michael Tetley, both renowned experts in using GIS in ecological research. It will consist of a series of background and practical sessions covering the use of GIS in cetacean and marine research. Practical elements will include learning how to collect field data at sea and how to import this data into a Geographic Information System to investigate the spatial and temporal distribution of identified species and analyse the home ranges of known individual animals. A combination of ESRI's ArcGIS 10.1 software and an open-source (and licence free) alternative will be used in this regard, and a uniquely numbered and verifiable certificate of completion for this GIS module of the course will be provided. Additional aspects of this course will include basic instruction in power boat handling, safety at sea and competent crew ability; cetacean identification, taxonomy and nomenclature; photo-identification procedures and mark capture-recapture analyses for bottlenose dolphins and minke whales; an introduction to relational databases and computer-assisted matching software; assessment, first aid administration and methods used in the care, transport and rescue of stranded cetaceans; and practical methods for the re-floatation of live stranded whales and dolphins In short, you will have the opportunity to learn about these mammals and their dynamic marine environment first hand, working closely alongside a dedicated and knowledgeable research team. As you participate in the CRRU's ongoing field studies, you will learn and apply the principles of field research design, data collection and analyses, undertake training in marine mammal rescue techniques, and gain a personal understanding of the conservation issues which drive current research, rescue and conservation activities by cetacean biologists. The cost for this internship course is £1,250 [ <http://www.xe.com/> for a currency converter, click here], which includes full board (i.e. all accommodation and food costs), your full equipment needs (immersion suits, wet boots etc for boat trips), associated course materials and hand-outs, and all associated field costs during your stay with the CRRU team. You will simply need to arrange your own travel itinerary to Banff in northeast Scotland (nearest airport Dyce, Aberdeen, approx. 1½ hours from the field base by coach) plus any personal spending money. For further details and conditions, please visit <http://www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp> http://www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp. Just 10 places are available for each of these exclusive GIS field teams, so immediate booking is advised. To request a booking form etc, email <mailto:kev.robinson@crru.org.uk> info(a)crru.org.uk. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Founded in 1997, the CRRU boasts over 70 scientific publications to date ( <http://www.crru.org.uk/publications.asp> 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 the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and the minke whale –providing robust scientific data for the adoption of management measures and effective conservation strategies for their future protection. Dr. Kevin Robinson Director, CRRU <mailto:kev.robinson@crru.org.uk> kev.robinson(a)crru.org.uk Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit, PO Box 11307, Banff, AB45 3WB, Scotland, UK | ( +44 (0)1261 851696 | <http://www.crru.org.uk/> www.crru.org.uk Whale and Dolphin Research | Environmental Educational Outreach | Marine Wildlife Rescue | Consultancy | MMO Services Recognised Scottish Charity No. SC 035473

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Reminder: Nat'l Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Policy, comment by 9/12
by Jonathan Shannon - NOAA Federal 08 Sep '14

08 Sep '14

Good afternoon, A reminder, NOAA Fisheries is seeking your thoughts on the National Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Policy online <http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/management/recreational/policy/index.html> until *Friday, September 12th*. Please contact nmfs.recfishpolicy(a)noaa.gov with any questions. Best regards, Jonathan Shannon *Outreach Specialist* NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources U.S. Department of Commerce Office: 301-427-8431 jonathan.shannon(a)noaa.gov *Webhttp://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/pr/ <http://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/pr/>Facebookwww.facebook.com/noaafisheries <http://www.facebook.com/noaafisheries>Twitterwww.twitter.com/noaafisherie <http://www.twitter.com/noaafisheries>sYouTubewww.youtube.com/usnoaafisheriesgov <http://www.youtube.com/usnoaafisheriesgov> *

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New Seiche Dubai PSO & PAM course, December 2014
by Sam Nichols 08 Sep '14

08 Sep '14

Please could you add this to your list: ................................................... Seiche is heading to Dubai in December to run its respected PSO & PAM course. Comprehensive training from experts in their field for those who wish to pursue a career in marine mammal observation and mitigation for the offshore seismic industry. It includes one day on board a vessel to allow you to gain experience with marine mammal identification while at sea. Day 1 (classroom) Introduction to Marine Mammals & Sea Turtles Legislation within the Gulf of Mexico & Global Oceans Introduction to Seismic Surveys Permitting Requirements Role of the PSO Data Collection & Reporting Day 2 (classroom) Clues & Search Methods for Marine Mammals & Sea Turtles Species Identification Testing & Certification Day 3 (classroom) Sound In Water Marine Mammals Anthropogenic Noise in the Sea Effects of Anthropogenic Noise on Marine Mammals Local Mitigation Guidelines PAM Principles and the Role of the PAM Operator Day 4 (classroom) PAM Hardware & Operations PAM Software PAMGuard Workshop Day 5 (on a vessel) Set up and deployment of PAM systems and visual observer stations Troubleshooting Real-time mitigation and reporting Costs: PSO Module (2 days): USD 800 or AED 2,940 PAM Module (3 days): USD 800 or AED 2,940 For more details, please contact Sarah Hancock at s.hancock(a)seiche.com.

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New Publication on density and abundance of bottlenose dolphins
by Serrano Solis Arturo 08 Sep '14

08 Sep '14

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce our new publication: LAURA VÁZQUEZ-CASTÁN, ARTURO SERRANO, MARISELA LÓPEZ-ORTEGA, JOSÉ A. GALINDO, MIGUEL A. DÍAZ-ARREDONDO & ASENCIÓN CAPISTRÁN-BARRADAS. 2014. IS THE NORTHERN-CENTRAL COAST OF VERACRUZ, MEXICO AN IMPORTANT AREA FOR BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS (Tursiops truncatus Montagu, 1821)? Thalassas. 30(2): 57-64. Abstract: The northern and central coasts of the state of Veracruz are inhabited by a great variety of organisms due to its high primary productivity. The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus Montagu, 1821) is one of the most charismatic species of this area. The purpose of this study was to determine the density and abundance of bottlenose dolphins on the northern and central coasts of Veracruz. The study area was subdivided into three zones, each housing a bottlenose dolphin population: Tamiahua, Tuxpan and Nautla. Distance sampling methodology was used to estimate dolphin density and abundance. In total, 89 surveys were conducted, totalizing 392.5 h of survey effort and an area sampled of 7,430 km2. Dolphins were sighted during 59 surveys, and of the 950 animals observed, 532 were determined to be unique individuals based on photo-identification. The abundance estimated for the entire study area is 2,632 dolphins (CV= 10.37%), with a density of 0.35 dolphin/km2 (CV= 10.37%), and density group of 0.35 group/km2 (CV= 10.37%). The results indicate that even though the study area is small it supports a larger density of bottlenose dolphins than the surrounding waters and may represent an important bottlenose dolphin conservation area in the Gulf of Mexico. Best, Arturo ____________________ Arturo Serrano, Ph.D. Director Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias Universidad Veracruzana Campus Tuxpan Tel.: (783) 834 4350 Ext. 46103 [http://www.uv.mx/imagenes/principal/70-aniversario_Banner2-izquierda-logo-t…]

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Master Thesis on Antimicrobial resistance of the upper respiratory tract commensal microbiota, in bottlenose dolphins, under human care (Machado, C., 2014)
by Catarina Machado 08 Sep '14

08 Sep '14

I am pleased to announce that my master thesis is available in the University of Lisbon Repository: https://www.repository.utl.pt/handle/10400.5/6754 Title: Antimicrobial resistance of the upper respiratory tract commensal microbiota, in bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*), under human care ABSTRACT: Respiratory affections, especially bacterial pneumonia, are a major cause of death in dolphins, both free-range individuals and those under human care. Animals affected by stress, immunocompromised or with underlying affections are more likely to be infected by opportunistic agents, usually present in the host in the commensal microbiota. Several colonizing microorganisms were recovered from the upper respiratory tract of nine healthy bottlenose dolphins, living under human care at the entertainment and educational oceanographic park Zoomarine - Mundo Aquático, S.A., Portugal. The isolated bacteria belonged to the species Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Morganella morganii, Klebsiella oxytoca, Staphylococcus hominis, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus simulans e Staphylococcus delphini group A. Disk diffusion method and genotypic characterization through PCR were the techniques performed in order to evaluate the antimicrobial resistance of these strains, regarding different families of antibiotics. The presence of resistance genes to β-lactams was investigated in the E. coli isolates through PCR, in order to identify β-lactamases’ producing strains (TEM, SHV, OXA- 1, CTX-M, AmpC), as well as the resistance genes to aminoglycosides (aaC(3’)-IV and aaC(6’)-Ib). The mecA and mecC genes were investigated in the Staphylococcus spp. isolates. The results demonstrated that the majority of the isolates were multidrug-resistant, 76% of the isolates were considered clinically resistant to more than three antibiotic families (R>3), followed by 17% of resistant strains (1≤R≤3) and a small representation of 7% of fully susceptible bacteria (R=0). Resistance genes were detected in all the E. coli isolates, most frequently the blaTEM, followed by blaOXA-1, blaCTX-M-15 and aaC(6’)-Ib and less frequently the blaDHA-1.. The mecA gene was identified in one S. aureus and in the S. hominis isolates. The isolation of multidrug-resistant bacteria from the commensal microbiota is relevant in that these microorganisms are capable of inactivating a wide spectrum of antibiotics, limiting the therapeutic options. Associated with the colonization of the respiratory tract of dolphins by these organisms, the question arises of the potential risk of colonization and transmission between these animals and humans. Keywords: bottlenose dolphin, pneumonia, commensal microbiota, antimicrobial resistance, resistance genes, Methicillin-resistant S. aureus Machado, C., DVM, MSc

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Bio-Waves Passive Acoustic Technology Training Course, November 2014
by Julie Oswald 07 Sep '14

07 Sep '14

[image: Inline image 1] Bio-Waves, Inc. is pleased to announce that registration is now open for our Passive Acoustic Technology training course, scheduled to occur Tuesday, November 11th through Friday November 14th, 2014 (www.bio-waves.com) This 4 day 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 Friday October 3rd, 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!

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Humpback Whale Field Intensive Program, Puerto Rico, USA
by Mithriel MacKay 07 Sep '14

07 Sep '14

*Humpback Whale Field Intensive Program at MCERC in Puerto Rico, USA: * *1 week “Shorty” programs * The Marine and Coastal Ecology Research Center (MCERC) is inviting interested adults to participate in the fifth season for 7 day field intensive programs focused on cetacean behavioral ecology in Puerto Rico. *No experience is necessary to participate!* All sessions for the 2015 season will include the 8 hour MCERC personal marketing course, “Is Your Resume Working for you?” free for Humpback Whale Field Intensive program participants. Join our research team studying humpback whales *(Megaptera novaeangliae*) wintering off Puerto Rico. *Space is limited to 4 students in each 7 day session* for boat and land based research platforms during the field season January 18, 2015- April 25, 2015. We are offering this "shorty" format (by request!) to fill the need for less expensive programs fitting into work and class schedules. Gap year students are welcome to inquire about programs lasting multiple weeks, including in-depth analysis of data. This field intensive training program is well suited for people with a university degree seeking field experience and students (undergraduate and graduate) of all skill levels interested in cetacean behavioral ecology and conservation. The program culminates in a certificate acknowledging training including theodolite tracking of whales and boats from land, boat based behavior and acoustic data collection, analysis of acoustic files and software, and photo identification of flukes and fins for cetaceans. Nightly roundtable meetings are open discussions of relevant peer reviewed publications selected to cover humpback whale life history and behavioral ecology. Participants are directly involved in data collection and analysis for PhD dissertation related research for Seasonal Occurrence Patterns and Social Behaviors of Humpback Whales *(Megaptera novaeangliae)* Wintering off Puerto Rico, USA as well as an examination of reaction to human activity near shore. Each week long field intensive session is $1500.00USD. Program fees include a week at the field house in Puerto Rico, USA: travel between field stations, training program in scientific methods, room and meals at the project field station in San German, reference materials related to the project, field methods for data collection and analysis, and a certificate of completion. Fees *do not include* travel to and from Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA and compulsory health and travel insurance (usually purchased with air travel). Students must bring a working or collar-type PFD during all boat operations. Options for acquiring a pfd for the program session are sent with application packets. All spaces in the program sessions will be on a first-come-first-served basis. On line registration is integrated with Pay Pal, and confirmation is instantaneous! MCERC has provided documentation of study for students working with their advisers at universities resulting in up to 4 undergraduate and graduate university credit hours. Please *meet with your adviser in advance* and send us an e-mail with your application if you are considering this option and we will be happy to send you information helpful to your adviser. To participate in any of the week long field intensive sessions; 1. Download the *Simple Application Form*, instructions, and information packet from MCERC’s Education Hub at http://www.marine-eco.org/mcerc-moodle orthe MCERC website ( www.Marine-Eco.org) Thank you for supporting humpback whale research and education! Questions? Send us a note! The MCERC website has a “Contact Us” option at http://www.marine-eco.org/contact/ and we are happy to answer your questions. 2015 Humpback Whale Field Intensive Project Sessions January 18 -24 January 25-31 February 01-07 February 08-14 February 15-21 February 22-28 March 01- 07 March 08-14 March 15-21 March 22-28 March 29- April 04 April 05 - 11 April 12- 18 April 19-25 See you in the tropics! -- Mithriel M. MacKay Ph.D. Candidate Marine Mammal Research Program Department of Marine Biology Texas A&M University, Galveston and Director of Research and Education Marine and Coastal Ecology Research Center San German, Puerto Rico, USA and Pipe Creek, Texas 78063 www.Marine-Eco.org <http://www.marine-eco.org/> M ithriel(a)Marine-Eco.org <MCERC.mail(a)gmail.com> Education Hub: www.Marine-Eco.org/mcerc-moodle

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