March 2015 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

URGENT - Research assistants (volunteer position only) needed for Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin study (photo-id + genetic sampling) in Perth, Western Australia, April and May 2015
by Delphine Chabanne 08 Mar '15

08 Mar '15

URGENT - Seeking field assistants for research on Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin in Perth, Western Australia Due to last minute change, I am seeking for 1 or 2 field assistants for April and May 2015. This position is only for volunteer (internship request limited). Project title: Assessment of the population of bottlenose dolphins within the Perth metropolitan waters. This project aims to assess dolphin abundance, residency, ranging patterns and genetic connectivity within an area encompassing over a four-year period. Sampling effort is stratified across four zones (Cockburn Sound, Owen Anchorage, Gage Roads, and the Swan-Canning Estuary) and across all four austral seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter). This will be our last season of fieldwork, so perhaps one of our busier and exciting with a lot of photo-id surveys and genetic sampling to do. Location: Cetacean Research Unit, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia. Duties: - Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys of bottlenose dolphins, including operating small vessel during surveys, collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data for dolphin groups. Expect early starts, hot weather, up to 11 hours on the water for multiple consecutive days, and up to a week between days off; - Photo-identification of dolphins in the lab. Prerequisites: - Enthusiasm for field work on a boat is essential (long hours and natural environment conditions); - Experience of working on and driving a small boat (essential); - Experience of photo-ID survey techniques (highly desirable); - No history of debilitation seasickness (essential). Expenses: This is an unpaid position. Travel to/from, accommodation, and food for applicants will be at their own charges. Please submit resume and cover letter to D.Chabanne(a)murdoch.edu.au<mailto:D.Chabanne@murdoch.edu.au>. Delphine Delphine Chabanne Ph.D. candidate Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University, Western Australia Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia http://mucru.org/group-members/delphine-chabanne/ http://mucru.org/research-projects/coastal-and-estuarine-dolphin-project/ [mucru-with-murdoch-WHITEBACKGROUND] Delphine Chabanne Ph.D. candidate Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University, Western Australia Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia http://mucru.org/group-members/delphine-chabanne/ http://mucru.org/research-projects/coastal-and-estuarine-dolphin-project/ [mucru-with-murdoch-WHITEBACKGROUND]

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new paper: genetic structure and hybridization in botos
by Waleska Gravena 07 Mar '15

07 Mar '15

Dear MARMAM Members We are pleased to announce that the following paper has been published in Biological Journal of Linnean Society Living between rapids: genetic structure and hybridization in botos (Cetacea: Iniidae: Inia spp.) of the Madeira River, Brazil Gravena, W., da Silva, V.M.F., da Silva, M.N. F., Farias, I.P. and Hrbek, T. Until the recent construction of hydroelectric dams, a series of 18 rapids divided the upper and lower Madeira River, and these rapids were thought to separate two species of Amazonian freshwater dolphins (boto): Inia boliviensis (above) and I. geoffrensis (below). Some reports and articles, however, mention the occurrence of botos within the rapids region and that they occasionally cross the rapids, but without mentioning the species concerned. Based on our previous studies, it is likely that I. boliviensis occurs in the region of the rapids. To test this supposition, we sampled 18 individuals from this region, and collected mitochondrial (control region, cytochrome b and cytochrome oxidase I) and nuclear (10 microsatellite loci) DNA data, in order to test if there is connectivity between the dolphins that were found within the rapids region and dolphins collected upstream and downstream of the rapids, and investigate population structuring between these localities. All animals in our study were molecularly identified using three mitochondrial markers as belonging to the species I. boliviensis. Animals upstream of the Teotônio waterfall, the main and highest waterfall of the region, had nuclear genome of I. boliviensis, while most dolphins downstream of the waterfall had nuclear genome of I. geoffrensis. Inia boliviensis collected in the rapids region above the Teotônio waterfall belong to a management unit (MU) distinct from the I. boliviensis MU occupying Bolivian rivers. Downstream of Teotônio waterfall most dolphins are I. boliviensis/ geoffrensis hybrids, with remaining individuals being migrant I. boliviensis http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bij.12463/abstract Please contact me for any more information. Best wishes -- Waleska Gravena, Dra. Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos - LMA Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia - INPA Laboratório de Evolução e Genética Animal - LEGAL Universidade Federal do Amazonas - UFAM www.evoamazon.net Associação Amigos do Peixe-Boi - AMPA www.ampa.org.br

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NOAA's Alaska Fisheries Science Center Marine Mammal Research Program Review
by Julie Speegle - NOAA Federal 06 Mar '15

06 Mar '15

On March 16-20, 2015, the Alaska Fisheries Science Center will be conducting a review of its marine mammal research program. The review will be held in Seattle, WA and is open to the public. For those who wish to listen remotely, webinar and teleconference information will be posted on the Alaska Fisheries Science Center website at www.afsc.noaa.gov/program_reviews/2015/default.htm This review is part of an ongoing effort by NOAA Fisheries to evaluate quality, relevence and performance to strategically position the science centers in planning future research. In previous years, reviews were conducted on the stock assessment process and stock assessment data. This year, the focus is on marine mammal research. To see a copy of the marine mammal science review agenda, documents given to reviewers and other background materials, please visit our website at: www.afsc.noaa.gov/program_reviews/2015/default.htm If you have any questions about this year's review, please feel free to contact us at NMML.Directorate(a)noaa.gov. -- Julie Speegle w: 907-586-7032 C: 907-321-7032

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New publication: SITE FIDELITY OF BRYDE'S WHALES (BALAENOPTERA EDENI) IN CABO FRIO REGION, SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL, THROUGH PHOTOIDENTIFICATION TECHNIQUE
by Rodrigo Tardin 06 Mar '15

06 Mar '15

Dear all, We are glad to announce the following publication on Brazilian Journal of Aquatic Science and Technology SITE FIDELITY OF BRYDE'S WHALES (BALAENOPTERA EDENI) IN CABO FRIO REGION, SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL, THROUGH PHOTOIDENTIFICATION TECHNIQUE Luciana D. Figueiredo, ; Rodrigo H. Tardin; Lilane Lodi; Israel S. Maciel; Maria Alice S. Alves & Sheila M. Simão Abstract: Photo-identification technique was applied to Bryde's whales off the coast of Cabo Frio region, south-eastern Brazil between December 2010 and November 2012. Twenty-five individuals were sighted on nineteen different days and, of these total, nine were individually identified using natural marks on the dorsal fin. Of these, two individuals were seen in four different days, and one was seen in two occasions. The mean interval between re-sighting was 133 days (minimum: one day, maximum: 431 days). Two different adult individuals that were previously identified were seen again accompanied by calves and one of these was also seen next to the Rio de Janeiro city coast (126 km apart). Most of the observations consisted of lone individuals (58.8% of sightings). The data reported here indicate that the Cabo Frio coast may be important for the studied species in Brazilian waters and indicated the possible site fidelity of Bryde's whales to this area. Requests, please contact ldsigue(a)gmail.com Rodrigo Tardin D.Sc. em Ecologia e Evolução - IBRAG - UERJ M.Sc em Biologia Animal - PPGBA - UFRRJ Especialista em Docência do Ensino Superior - IAVM Laboratório de Bioacústica e Ecologia de Cetáceos - UFRRJ/ IF/ DCA

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New publication: Marine Mammal Observer and Passive Acoustic Monitoring Handbook
by Jane Gardiner 06 Mar '15

06 Mar '15

Dear MARMAM Colleagues, We are pleased to announce that our book is out now: Todd, VLG, Todd, IB, Gardiner, JC, and Morrin, ECN (2015): Marine Mammal Observer and Passive Acoustic Monitoring handbook. Pelagic Publishing Ltd, UK. The ‘Marine Mammal Observer and Passive Acoustic Monitoring Handbook’ is the ultimate instruction manual for mitigation measures to minimise man-made acoustical and physical disturbances to marine mammals from industrial and defence activities. Based on more than two decades of offshore experience, and a decade of supplying MMO and PAM services (commercial and scientific), the Handbook is a long-overdue reference guide that seeks to improve standards worldwide for marine operations such as seismic and drilling exploration, wind farm piling, civil engineering, dredging, rock-dumping, and hydrographical surveys. By popular request, this manual will also form an accompaniment to MMO and PAM courses. The Handbook consolidates all aspects of this discipline into one easily accessible resource, to educate all stakeholders (e.g. MMOs, PAM operators, suppliers, recruitment agencies, clients, contractors, regulators, NGOs, consultants, scientists, academia and media), regardless of experience. Topics include worldwide legislation, compliance, anthropogenic noise sources and potential effects, training, offshore life, visual and acoustic monitoring (theory and practice), marine mammal distribution, hearing and vocalisations, and report writing. Advice is provided on implementing sensible and practical mitigation techniques, appropriate technologies, data collection, client and regulator liaison, and project kick-off meetings. A foreword is provided by Dr Phillip J. Clapham. Pelagic publishing: http://www.pelagicpublishing.com/the-marine-mammal-observer-and-passive-aco… NHBS: http://www.nhbs.com/the_marine_mammal_observer_and_passive_acoustic_monitor… Amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Observer-Passive-Acoustic-Monitoring-Handbook/dp/19… Kind Regards, Jane Gardiner -- Jane Gardiner Research Assistant OSC Ltd, Ocean House, 4 Brewery Lane Belhaven, Dunbar, East Lothian Scotland, EH42 1PD T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 M: +44 (0)7717 765 589 F: +44 (0)1368 865 729 W: www.osc.co.uk

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Humpback Whale Research Internship Opportunity
by Jooke Robbins 06 Mar '15

06 Mar '15

The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) has three summer research internship openings in its Humpback Whale Studies Program. CCS is a nonprofit institution dedicated to understanding and conserving coastal and marine resources. Our longitudinal studies of whale populations have advanced science, improved understanding of human impacts and aided in the protection of critical habitats. Many CCS research interns have gone on to productive careers in science or conservation. We are seeking highly motivated, independent individuals with a career interest in marine mammal science. Applicants must have completed at least their sophomore year in college with a major in a relevant scientific discipline. Post-grads and graduate students are welcome to apply. Summer interns must make a full-time commitment from June 1 through August 31, but we will consider starting dates as early as May and ending dates as late as November. Interns would participate in humpback whale field research in the near- and offshore waters of the Gulf of Maine, including a multiple week survey of US and Canadian waters. They would gain exposure to a range of field research techniques, such as photo-identification, biopsy sampling and tagging. In the office, interns would learn data management and analysis skills and undertake tasks such as data entry, photographic matching and cataloging. They would also perform assigned scientific readings and assist with project analyses. An independent project may also be undertaken, depending on the length of the internship. Candidates must be able to live and work well in close quarters, be able to swim and not be prone to serious seasickness. They should be prepared to work long days in the field, including weekends and holidays as needed. Interns will be required to provide evidence of health coverage during the internship period. This is an unpaid internship based in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Interns must arrange for their own housing, transportation and living expenses. Applicants are advised that the cost of living on Cape Cod is high, particularly during the summer. We do not offer college credit but will assist qualified interns in applying for credit from their home institution. International applicants must secure their own Visas or other required documentation. *How to Apply* Application materials must be e-mailed to internships(a)coastalstudies.org with the following text in the subject line: “2015 HW RESEARCH INTERNSHIP” The application package should include the following: 1) A letter of interest (500 words or less) describing your specific interests in marine mammal science, what qualifies you for this internship and how it would advance your career. Please provide this as an attachment and not in the body of the e-mail. 2) A 1-2 page curriculum vitae emphasizing relevant experience and coursework, including grades and overall GPA (note that a transcript may later be requested). 3) The names and contact information of two references (professors or supervisors). Application materials should be submitted as soon as possible and no later than March 31, 2015. For more information, please visit us at http://coastalstudies.org/ -------------------------------------------- Jooke Robbins, Ph.D. Senior Scientist Center for Coastal Studies 5 Holway Avenue, Provincetown, MA 02657 ph: 508-487-3623 x116, fax: 508-487-4695 www.coastalstudies.org

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eco-volunteers and/or internships available for large marine vertebrates surveys in Berau, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
by Danielle Kreb 05 Mar '15

05 Mar '15

Dear all, We have still positions open for our surveys as described below: We are looking for motivated volunteers/ students that are willing to engage in the Berau marine vertebrates program, which aims to protect a high diversity of large marine vertebrates including cetaceans, turtles, whale sharks and manta rays in the Marine Park of Derawan Archipelago, East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Besides raising awareness, engaging local communities in sustainable handycraft and ecotourism activities, part of the conservation program includes a long-term monitoring program of marine vertebrates in the area. Surveys are being conducted by the local NGO Yayasan Konservasi RASI (Conservation Foundation for Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia) under guidance of Dr. Danielle Kreb and Ir. Budiono. The research team involves experienced RASI staff, trained local fishermen as well as local and overseas (student) volunteers. We are looking for motivated volunteers/ students that are willing to engage in the program through a seven or eight-days monitoring survey in the beautiful landscape of the Berau archipelago.We will collect data to determine relative abundance, core area mapping, assessing seasonal species diversity and site fidelity as well as habitat usage of large mafine vertebrates. Through earlier surveys it was found that the highest relative abundance of ceteaceans was within 5km radius of islands or reefs, and therefore we also conduct coral reef monitoring at several locations by snorkling to asses its health. Volunteers will have the opportunity to learn theory and practice of Reefcheck monitoring for the Indo-Pacific taught by a certified ecodiver that will join the survey.There will be an opportunity to do recreational things such as snorkling in the stingless jelly fish lake of Kakaban and snorkling near Manta Rays and/or whale sharks following good practice protocols. Underwater photo-id will be attempted as well of whale sharks.. Dates: 17-28 Mai (2 positions); 6-16 June (1 position); 14-25 August (2 positions); 12-23 October 2015 (2 positions). Deadlines for applying for the April and May surveys are 1 March, for June & August, 15 March and for October, 1 July 2015. Please apply by sending us an email with CV and motivation. Day by day schedule, qualifications for volunteers and costs involved can be downloaded from a flyer posted on our website at: http://www.ykrasi.org/coastal.html We are looking forward to your participation! Regards, Danielle and Budiono -------------------------- Danielle Kreb (Ph.D.) Scientific Program Advisor Yayasan Konservasi RASI Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia Komplek Pandan Harum Indah (Erlyza) Blok C, No. 52 Samarinda 75124 Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia Tel/ fax: + 62.541.744874 Mobile: 081346489515 http://www.ykrasi.org Facebook group/page: Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia

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Whale Watching Captain/Naturalist Job Opportunity
by Ocean Ecoventures 05 Mar '15

05 Mar '15

Job Opportunity for a whale watching Captain/Naturalist for our 2015 Whale Watching season April-October. We are located in Cowichan Bay on Vancouver Island and we are seeking an enthusiastic and conscientious captain/naturalist. Full time and part time positions available. A small, owner-operated family business, Ocean EcoVentures is committed to providing intimate and informative whale watching tours. Small tour groups ensure personalized service, while your Transport Canada certified captain provides a safe and knowledgeable tour of the scenic Canadian Gulf Islands and U.S. San Juan Islands.Whales are our passion! We love sharing Vancouver Island's marine ecosystem and all that inhabits it. We are dedicated to responsible and ethical whale watching and wildlife viewing. We consider our vessels floating classrooms. Our captains/naturalists are expected to provide a vast amount of knowledge of Vancouver Island's and the Gulf Islands' local natural history. As well as the most up to date science regarding our local orcas, humpback whales, gray whales and the rest of marine ecosystem. Please email for more information or check out our employment page on our website - http://oceanecoventures.com/employment Please email your c.v., covering letter and three references. Email - tours(a)oceanecoventures.com

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Announcement: Two Positions in NMFS Office of Protected Resources
by Benjamin Laws - NOAA Federal 05 Mar '15

05 Mar '15

There are two positions open in the National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources. These positions are with the Incidental Take Program, which processes incidental take authorization requests pursuant to Section 101(a)(5) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The positions will open on USAJOBS from 3/5/2015 to 3/18/2015. Below is the link to the full text vacancy announcement. http://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/394437100 Please share with qualified applicants. Thanks! -- ------------------------------ Ben Laws Office of Protected Resources NOAA Fisheries U.S. Department of Commerce (301) 427-8425 Benjamin.Laws(a)noaa.gov National Marine Fisheries Service <http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/> Incidental Take Program <http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental/>

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seeking live dolphin barnacle (Xenobalanus) samples
by John Zardus 05 Mar '15

05 Mar '15

Dear Marmam community, For the last few years at this time of year I have sent requests for live samples of the barnacle Xenobalanus which lives in association with dolphins. It is that time of year again. Many thanks to those who have supplied samples in the past. My primary objective is to obtain barnacles bearing eggs so that the larval stages can be reared in the laboratory. It may be a little early for their reproduction in the northern hemisphere right now but I suspect they will be reproducing in the next month (and throughout the summer) if not now. If you encounter in the next few weeks or months individuals that seem large (about 4cm or larger) and plump then they might very well contain eggs. I do not need large numbers and even one individual with eggs would be useful. I have copied my collection protocol below but am happy to send a PDF version on request along with my NMFS Parts Authorization letter. In brief, the barnacles should be collected live and shipped overnight wrapped in a moist paper towel inside a ziplock bag. Prior to shipping do not keep the animals immersed in seawater. They do best wrapped loosely in moist paper towel and kept in the refrigerator. They can survive for several days this ways. Freshly dead individuals are useful as well as long as they are sent right away. I would appreciate advance notice if you have material to send and I will pay for shipping by FedEx with prior arrangement. It is preferable to keep the samples under refrigeration for several rather than sending them to arrive on a Friday or Saturday. They should be sent to my address listed below. Kind thanks, John Zardus PROTOCOL Tassel barnacles attach by embedding their small shell into host tissue and can be cut with shell intact from dead cetaceans with a sharp blade. Barnacles on living cetaceans can be clipped at the base, leaving the embedded shell behind without injury to the host. SHIPPING LIVE SPECIMENS 1) Remove from host as described above. 2) Loosely wrap specimen(s) in paper towel moistened with seawater but not dripping wet. Individuals can remain refrigerated for several days (maybe as long as a week if uninjured and if separated and given occasional fresh ventilation and re-moisturization) until ready to ship. 3) For shipping, place barnacles in a ziplock bag with some airspace and ship overnight. No more than 3-4 individuals per ziplock bag. If weather is hot include an ice pack if possible. 4) Host cetacean species name, case ID number, locality, and date should all be included. 5) Send samples to the address listed below (be sure to include 'Biology Department' in the address) ____________________ John D. Zardus Associate Professor Department of Biology The Citadel 171 Moultrie Street Charleston, SC 29409 ph. 843-953-7511 fx. 843-953-7264 e. john.zardus(a)citadel.edu

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