January 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Full-time Contract Employment - ATN Network Coordinator - Silver Springs, MD
by Weise, Michael J CIV ONRA, 322 29 Jan '16

29 Jan '16

Position Announcement - ATN Network Coordinator The IOOS Program Office seeks to recruit a Network Coordinator for the Animal Telemetry Network About the ATN The U.S. Animal Telemetry Network (ATN) will be an alliance among Federal and non‐Federal, state, regional, tribal, and academic tagging partners to maximize collaborations within the community and access to animal telemetry data, to generate information products, to provide science‐based information for species- and ecosystem-based management, and to promote economic, social, and environmental benefits nationally and globally. The ATN is designed as a distributed technology and information network that applies consistent international data standards and best practices to achieve seamless integration, not only among various ATN observing assets and animal telemetry efforts, but also with other observing systems. The ATN is supported by multiple Federal agencies, has worked through the Interagency Ocean Observation Committee (IOOC) - which operates under the National Ocean Council’s Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology (SOST) - and has determined that the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (U.S. IOOS) Program Office (U.S. IOOS PO) will implement the national ATN in partnership with the IOOC member agencies and in collaboration with the community of U.S. IOOS Regional Associations (RAs) and regional experts. A national ATN Steering Group (SG) will facilitate development and continuity of the ATN by representing RA and agency research interests, identifying and fostering coordinated long‐term strategies, and providing operational guidance and decision‐making for the overarching ATN. The Steering Group will include Regional Association representatives, independent subject matter experts, and Federal and non‐Federal entities that provide funding or in‐kind support to the ATN. Position Summary The ATN Network Coordinator will serve as the point of contact for the ATN through the IOOS program, facilitate communication and information exchange among parties involved, and coordinate overarching planning and resource management. In this capacity, the position facilitates, develops and supports multi-agency and institutional collaborations that conduct and/or promote animal telemetry. The Network Coordinator will work to harmonize the needs of the ATN Steering Group, the U.S. IOOS Program Office, Regional Associations (RA), and stakeholders. The Network Coordinator will report to the IOOS Operations Division Chief on administrative matters, and report to the SG on all programmatic related matters. The broad objectives for the ATN Network Coordinator are as follows: * Coordinate the overall network management, both programmatically and operationally, and serve as a point of contact for the SG, participating IOOC agencies, U.S. IOOS RAs, and other regional experts. Oversee administration of the ATN, including working with the SG in defining ATN scientific and operational objectives, and participating in the annual budget-planning process among participating agencies that fund animal tagging. * Review and provide input on ATN scientific and technical directions for the IOOC, U.S. IOOS, partner agencies, and the academic community. * Identify long‐term strategies to meet ATN goals and objectives outlined in the ATN Implementation, and work with the SG in the development of updates to the ATN Implementation Plan as needed. All updates will take into consideration Federal, tribal, non‐Federal, regional and other user needs. * Successfully create and maintain formal and informal collaborations with other research groups and institutions to facilitate and support baseline observations of the aquatic species movements and behaviors that are required to support resource and protected-species management, identify critical habitat and habitat use, engage in real‐time monitoring, contribute to our understanding of how disturbances affect these species and their habitats, and collect data to improve ocean modeling and forecasting. The Network Coordinator will also develop collaborations in an effort to coordinate, support, maintain, and enhance existing national infrastructure and capability, including activities coordinated through participating U.S. IOOS RAs. * Engage and lead communications regarding ATN activities and initiatives with the U.S. IOOS Program Office, RAs and regional experts. Serve as the ATN’s principal point of contact on issues related to animal telemetry research, and be responsible for communications with all ATN partners. * Identify resource requirements and work with the SG in the development of funding pathways, in cooperation with partnering organizations, and to achieve the annual operating plan goals. * Implement a national data management system in partnership with the SG and the ATN Data Assembly Center team to meet the needs of Federal and non-Federal entities by developing metadata standards, providing quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), archiving the data in standard formats, and making the data accessible through common web services. In coordination with the SG, the Network Coordinator will oversee the DAC operations and maintenance, which may be contracted to a third party. * Lead the integration of animal telemetry data more seamlessly into the ocean observing systems at both national and international levels. Qualifications Bachelor degree (Master's or Ph.D. preferred) in marine science or conservation with a demonstrated record of accomplishment in aquatic animal telemetry. Experience working with policy and advocacy players to apply science to conservation policy solutions. At least 2 years' experience in program administration, including personnel and budget management, short and long-term goal setting, program development and evaluation. Experience/Competencies Demonstrated capacity to enthusiastically communicate and execute a progressive science vision that advances the ATN’s long term goal of an alliance among Federal and non‐Federal entities. Outstanding oral and written communication skills with ability to convey animal telemetry science to the stakeholders and the public in a compelling fashion. Excellent leadership skills, with demonstrated ability to create and lead motivated and effective teams as well as work with colleagues in a team-oriented environment. Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to work effectively with a very diverse stakeholder group, including but not limited to IOOC, U.S. IOOS, partner Federal agencies, state and tribal agencies, and the academic community. To apply please go to the following website: https://issmgmt.catsone.com/careers/index.php?m=portal&a=details&jobOrderID…

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The Whale Museum's Soundwatch Boater Education Program Summer Internship!
by elizabeth＠whalemuseum.org 29 Jan '16

29 Jan '16

Be Part of the Soundwatch Boater Education Program: Summer Internships Available! Soundwatch is a successful and internationally acclaimed education and monitoring program working to reduce vessel disturbance to orcas and other marine wildlife in the Salish Sea region of Washington State (USA) and British Columbia (Canada). Soundwatch needs interns to help conduct seasonal vessel patrols, educate boaters on regional/federal guidelines and regulations and collect data while monitoring vessel activities around whales. Data from this critical program characterizes vessel activity trends around endangered orcas and other marine wildlife. The data is used to promote better boater compliance and to inform marine mammal management strategies such as state and federal vessel laws and guidelines. The Soundwatch program is operated by The Whale Museum (TWM), a not-for-profit organization located in Friday harbor on San Juan Island in Washington State. Interns Must: Commit to at least 12 weeks between May and September Be able to work approximately 30-40 hours per week, Mon-Sun Perform a variety of tasks both in the field, on the boat and in an office Have strong sense of responsibility, work ethic and attention to detail Produce high quality research efforts and exhibit strong interpersonal skills Field days: Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water sometimes in extreme seasonal conditions. Field days typically exceed eight hours and occur at least three or four times a week. Internship is located in Friday Harbor, Washington. This is an unpaid position and Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, TWM staff will be able to assist Interns in suggesting suitable housing options and locations. Applicant requirements: At least 18 years of age, physically fit (able to lift 40 lbs), must be able to swim, not easily susceptible to seasickness, and familiar with database spreadsheets. Preference will be given to undergraduates or recent graduates in the marine or wildlife sciences. Interns will need a valid US passport or an enhanced driver's license and CPR/First Aid certification. A state boater license/or equivalent safe boating card, not required, but is encouraged. HOW TO APPLY FOR INTERNSHIP POSITION: Please send a letter of interest, a resume, and contact information for three references. Be sure to include what dates you can start/end. Applications accepted until March 15th, 2016. Decisions will be made by April 1, 2016. PLEASE SEND APPLICATION MATERIALS TO: Elizabeth Seely Soundwatch Coordinator P.O. Box 945 Friday Harbor, Washington 98250 Or email (preferred) to: [ soundwatch(a)whalemuseum.org ]( mailto:soundwatch@whalemuseum.org ) Please visit The Whale Museum’s Web site for more information on Soundwatch: [ http://www.whalemuseum.org/programs/soundwatch/soundwatch.html ]( http://www.whalemuseum.org/programs/soundwatch/soundwatch.html )

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The Whale Museum 2016 Stranding Network Internship
by Jennifer Olson 29 Jan '16

29 Jan '16

The Whale Museum's Stranding Network Program: Summer Internship 2016 The San Juan County Marine Mammal Stranding Network (SJCMMSN), a program of The Whale Museum established in 1980, is authorized by NMFS to respond to all marine mammal strandings in San Juan County, WA. We typically respond to more than 200 calls of both live and deceased animals a year. SJCMMSN is currently recruiting a San Juan Island-based intern to help respond to marine mammal strandings during our busy season. Interns and volunteers of this critical program serve as ambassadors between humans and marine mammals as well as contribute scientific data that is crucial to both human and animal health. Internship is based in Friday Harbor, WA: approximately 35-40 hours per week, June-August; variety of tasks both in the field and in an office setting. Schedule may vary and involve "on call" time. Intern will receive a small stipend. Shared housing at reasonable cost is likely available. KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Assist with stranding response including: health assessments of live seal pups in the field; tagging harbor seals that are not collected for rehabilitation; transfer of harassed or injured pups to a local rehabilitation center; Level A examinations of dead marine mammals * Perform first mate duties on board The Whale Museum's stranding boat, the R/V Buzzard * Assist with necropsies of fresh dead marine mammals including: transfer of carcass to the lab space; preparation, set-up, and take-down of necropsy supplies; organizing and archiving biological samples * Assist with data entry and analysis REQUIREMENTS: At least 18 years of age, physically fit (able to lift 40 lbs), possess a valid US driver's license. Preference will be given to undergraduates or recent graduates in the marine or wildlife sciences. Animal handling and/or boating experience is preferred but not required. HOW TO APPLY FOR INTERNSHIP POSITION: Please send a letter of interest, a resume, and contact information for three references. Be sure to include what dates you can start/end. Applications accepted until March 1, 2016. Decisions will be made by April 1, 2016. Please send application materials to: ATTN Jennifer Olson The Whale Museum, P.O. Box 945, Friday Harbor, Washington 98250 Or email (preferred) to: jennifer(a)whalemuseum.org Jennifer Olson Data Specialist - Stranding Coordinator - Collections Curator The Whale Museum Office: (360) 378-4710 ext. 27 Stranding hotline: 1-800-562-8832

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Fish and marine mammal bioacoustic internship at USCB
by MONTIE, ERIC 29 Jan '16

29 Jan '16

USCB Bioacoustic Spring/Summer Research Experience Need: Two fish/marine mammal bioacoustic interns for spring and summer 2016. Organization: Marine Sensory and Neurobiology Lab at USCB, Dr. Eric Montie, Department of Natural Sciences, University of South Carolina Beaufort. Salary: Unpaid internship. Position Information: 25 hrs minimum per week; Monday through Friday. 30 - 40 hrs per week is preferred. Position is for 6 months from March 1st to August 31st. Location: This position is located at the University of South Carolina Beaufort at the Bluffton campus. Bluffton, SC is located only 20 minutes from Hilton Head Island, SC. The campus is 10 minutes from the May River and 15 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean. About Our Lab: Our research lab strives to understand the sensory and neurobiology of marine organisms. Specifically, we are interested in brain architecture, hearing of fish and marine mammals, and acoustic communication of aquatic vertebrates. The more applied part of our research program focuses on studies that investigate how natural and man-made stressors impact the brain, hearing, and acoustic communication. These stressors include man-made chemicals, harmful algal blooms, noise pollution, and climate change. We use techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging, auditory evoked potentials, and passive acoustics using long-term monitoring devices. This research involves work on biomedical models such as zebrafish, as well as wild marine organisms like spotted seatrout, red drum, and bottlenose dolphins. Duties Include: (1) Sound production studies with fish and bottlenose dolphins. (2) Larval and juvenile fish sampling using plankton tows, fyke nets, and beam trawls. (3) Bottlenose dolphin abundance, distribution, and photo-identification. (4) Managing our Adopt a Dolphin program. The internship will focus on analyzing and interpreting previously collected acoustic data using our DSG-Ocean Recorders. In addition, interns will participate in larval and juvenile fish sampling through the use of plankton tows, fyke nets, and beam trawls. There will be some opportunities for additional field work, including dolphin surveys, as well as deployment and retrieval of stationary and drifting acoustic recorders. Qualifications: The internship is designed for undergraduates who have recently graduated and are interested in gaining experience in marine bioacoustics. Experience with Adobe Audition, Excel, and MATLAB preferred. Students in computational science majors are urged to apply. Boat experience is preferred but not mandatory. Evidence of good communication skills through interaction with public is also a bonus. Good organizational skills are a necessity. How to Apply: Please email a C.V. with GPA and two reference contacts to Dr. Eric Montie (emontie(a)uscb.edu<mailto:emontie@uscb.edu>). If you have questions concerning the position, please email or phone (843) 208-8107. Eric W. Montie Assistant Professor of Biology Department of Natural Sciences University of South Carolina Beaufort Science and Technology Building Office: Room 103 Lab: Room 116 One University Boulevard Bluffton, SC 29909 Office Phone: (843) 208-8107 Fax: (843) 208-8294 Email: emontie(a)uscb.edu

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FWC Manatee Photo-identification Internships
by Johnson, Jennifer 29 Jan '16

29 Jan '16

Manatee Photo-identification Internships The manatee photo-identification program is based in St. Petersburg, Florida at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI). FWRI is the research arm of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), a state agency. For more information about FWRI, please visit: www.MyFWC.com/research/<http://www.MyFWC.com/research/>. FWRI's manatee photo-identification research focuses on long-term monitoring of Florida manatees in southwest Florida. The program's primary goal is to document individual manatees, which allows us to estimate annual adult survival and reproductive rates and to model population dynamics for state and federal assessments of Florida manatee status and recovery. Photo-identification data also provide insight regarding manatee movements, site fidelity, habitat use and behavior. Interns will primarily assist staff members with photographing manatees and collecting behavioral and environmental data at sites around Tampa Bay. Interns will also be responsible for a number of lab-based photo-identification tasks, such as downloading images, entering information into databases, scanning data sheets and matching images to known animals. Interns often collect data independently in the field, thus responsible, detail oriented applicants are encouraged to apply. Most field work is land-based; however, during the winter session opportunities are available to assist with boat-based manatee photo-identification. Other responsibilities may include but are not limited to data entry, assisting with manatee genetics research, special projects and outreach activities. This internship provides a great opportunity to gain valuable field and lab experience at a government agency. Two positions are available each year: one in winter (November to March) and one in summer (May to September). Start and end dates are flexible; however, a minimum commitment of four weekdays per week for four months is required. Work hours are typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own housing and transportation to and from the institute. Positions are open until filled, and priority will be given to candidates who can commit for longer periods. Qualifications: * Computer proficiency; Microsoft Access literacy preferred. * Working knowledge of SLR digital cameras, filters and lenses preferred but not required. * The ability to lift approximately 50 pounds of equipment. * A valid U.S. Driver's License. * Enthusiasm and willingness to learn field and lab based research methods. If you are interested in applying for an internship with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, the following information is required: * A cover letter describing the internship you are applying for; area(s) of academic/research interest; and the dates, days, and hours of availability. * A resume (or curriculum vitae) describing your relevant training and experience. * Current academic transcripts. (unofficial are sufficient) * Names and contact information for three references. Please submit application items as an e-mail attachment to: Interns(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Interns@MyFWC.com> If electronic submission is not possible, hard copies can be mailed to: Internship Coordinator FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute 100 Eight Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5020 Applicants may contact FWRI's Manatee Photo-identification Project Manager, Kari Rood, (Kari.Rood(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Kari.Rood@MyFWC.com>, 727-502-4737) with questions regarding the internship.

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Protected Species Observer Training - Galveston, TX Feb 26-27
by abostwick 29 Jan '16

29 Jan '16

There are a few spots left in the MPSC Protected Species Observer training course February 26-27 in Galveston, TX. This BOEM/BSEE-compliant PSO certification course covers the regulations for reducing seismic survey impacts to marine mammals and sea turtles, and how to visually locate and identify the animals. Course comprehension is measured with examinations on regulations and animal identification. Lunch is provided and included in the $800 course fee (college/recent graduate and group discounts available), along with various identification guides, regulatory documents, admission to Moody Gardens Aquarium, and advice on applying to PSO positions. The registration form may be found here: http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/MPSC_Registration-February2016.pdf <http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/MPSC_Registration-February2016.pdf> MPSC is also holding PSO training at Mote Marine Lab Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida on April 9-10. For more information or to register, please contact Angela at ABostwick(a)PSOCertifications.com <mailto:ABostwick@PSOCertifications.com> , by phone at 832-523-2402 <tel:832-523-2402> , or visit the website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/ <http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/> . Thank you, Angela Bostwick / Founder Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com <http://www.ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com> https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/

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MARINE MAMMAL PLACEMENTS IN ARCHIPELAGOS, GREECE
by Aylin Akkaya 28 Jan '16

28 Jan '16

MARINE MAMMAL VOLUNTEER POSITIONS IN THE AEGEAN SEA ARE AVAILABLE Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is currently seeking for volunteers, based in beautiful island of Samos, Greece. The project is focused on the conservation of marine mammals through combining research and education. Therefore, while marine mammal abundance, distribution, behaviour and threats will be monitored through boat and land surveys, active involvement of stakeholders to the projects will also be supported. This project provides an excellent opportunity for post-grads, students and individuals interested in getting more experience and knowledge in the field of marine mammal research. Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation (www.archipelago.gr) is a Greek non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to the conservation of the marine and terrestrial environments of the Greek seas and islands for over a decade. Previously, bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, striped dolphins, Risso's dolphins, sperm whales, beaked whales, fin whales, false killer whale, harbour porpoises and Mediterranean monk seals were documented in the Aegean Sea. VOLUNTEERS are primarily responsible for behavioural data collection, theodolite operation, photographing individuals and cataloguing dolphin/monk seal pictures, data entry. Training will be provided beforehand. In addition, there will be ArcGIS and SPSS courses running which will be free for volunteers during their stay. There will be an opportunity to undertake a personal research project supervised by the project director. The base of project activities will be in Samos however there will be an opportunity to join the cetacean surveys in Fethiye and Antalya, Turkey carried by Marine Mammals Research Association. The enrolment on these surveys depends on the volunteer background and on the time of the year when they will participate. REQUIREMENTS Applicant are expected to be graduates or students of a BSc degree in biology, marine biology or zoology and able to demonstrate previous experience in the field of research and conservation. Knowledge on marine mammal species of Mediterranean is advantage. Practical experience of photo-identification (both photography and matching) and theodolite operation is desirable. The applicant must be fluent in English, proficient with database and word processing software and be willing to learn new software applications. Volunteers must be self-motivated, with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly, and with a true interest in marine conservation. The position is open starting from March 7th throughout the year. The minimum duration of the placements is normally 3 complete months. We may make exceptions for potential participants to apply for a shorter placement. PROJECT FEE This position is unpaid and requires a contribution fee of 650 euro per month, which covers the accommodation, meals, equipment, training and working expenses for the participants, as well as work insurance and Greek language lessons. Participants should cover their own travel expenses to Samos island where all projects start/end. TO APPLY Send CV and cove rletter by e-mail to a.akkaya(a)archipelago.gr Deadline for Applications: Monday 15th February 2016. Dr. Aylin Akkaya Bas Marine Mammal Research Coordinator Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation Marine Research Base: P.O. Box 42, Pythagorio, Samos 83102 www.archipelago.gr Tel. +30 2273061147, +30 2273061191

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New Publication: Blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) behavior and group dynamics as observed from an aircraft off Southern California
by Kate Lomac-Macnair 28 Jan '16

28 Jan '16

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of a new paper: Lomac-MacNair, K., & Smultea, M. A. (2016). Blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) behavior and group dynamics as observed from an aircraft off Southern California. Animal Behavior and Cognition, 3(1), 1-21. doi: 10.12966/abc.02.01.2016 ABSTRACT Group behavior and interactions of endangered blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) have not been systematically studied. Such behavioral data are often overlooked when assessing anthropogenic effects. Yet behavioral data are necessary to compare “normal” behaviors with behavior affected by anthropogenic factors of concern relative to effective management and recovery of blue whales. For a baseline study, we hypothesized that the response variables sighting rate, group size, calf presence and group cohesion (i.e., spacing between individuals within a group) differed according to the spatio-temporal explanatory variables behavioral state, time of day, season, water depth and distance from shore. To address our hypotheses, we flew systematic line transect surveys in southern California and collected focal group data. Two sets of data were separately analyzed using different sampling approaches: (1) point sample data associated with the first sighting of a blue whale(s), and (2) extended all-occurrence focal group behavioral sampling data (i.e., focal follows) collected on a subsample of all sightings while the aircraft circled at a radial distance of approximately 0.5-1 km and an altitude of 1,500 m for extended periods of 5 – 60 minutes. Chi-square contingency table and G² analyses were used to assess statistical relationships between response and explanatory variables. We conducted 18 one-week-long aerial surveys spanning October 2008 through May 2013 (at least once during every month except December), totaling 87,555 km of observation effort. Seventy blue whale sightings (117 individuals) were seen, ranging in size from 1 – 6 whales, and focal follow was performed on over half (55%) of these sightings. Results supported our hypotheses that blue whale group characteristics were related to behavioral state and spatio-temporal variables. Sighting rates were significantly highest during summer followed by spring, fall, and winter. Group type differed significantly by season: groups (at least three individuals) were seen only during summer but singles and pairs were seen from spring through fall. Noncalf groups and mother/calf pairs engaged predominantly in mill and slow travel/rest, while singles and pairs were only observed in medium/fast travel. Behavioral state differed significantly by time of day, group type, water depth and distance from shore. On average mother/calf pairs (n = 3) and singles (n = 43) were found in deeper offshore waters than groups (n = 8) and pairs (n = 16). Group cohesion and group size were negatively correlated: as group size increased whales became less cohesive and more spread out. Our study suggests that group characteristics and behavior are sensitive to spatio-temporal factors. These data are important in providing the first systematic quantitative study of blue whale behavior, providing a baseline against which to assess potential impacts of increasing anthropogenic marine activities in the study area and elsewhere. Results further indicate that social, behavioral and spatio-temporal factors influencing blue whales must be considered when attempting to differentiate potential impacts of anthropogenic activities. We thus suggest that our study parameters be applied as behavioral indices of anthropogenic disturbance to blue whales. To identify effective management and conservation actions to assist in recovery of the blue whale population, it is imperative to describe and quantify natural behavior and habitat use patterns. Our paper is available online at: http://static1.squarespace.com/static/55d8cdaee4b02c0cfcea3dc6/t/56a963041c… Or via e-mail request to kate(a)smulteasciences.com Cheers, Kate Lomac-MacNair COO/Senior Research Scientist Smultea Environmental Sciences kate(a)smulteasciences.com

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Annoucement: [PRACTICAL INTENSIVE CETACEANS COURSE] - Madeira Island, 17-19th March
by Filipe Alves 28 Jan '16

28 Jan '16

Dear collegues, we are pleased to annouce a special edition of a practical intensive course on cetaceans, in Madeira Island (Portugal), between 17-19th March, after the 30th ECS. INCLUDES:four lectures, three pelagic trips , a visit to the Whale Museum, a look-out post experience, insurance and certificate. TARGET PARTICPANTS:undergraduate / recente graduated students and naturalists. ORGANIZED BY:Ventura | nature emotions, in partnership with the Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Envirnomental Research (CIIMAR-Madeira) and the Madeira Whale Museum, with the participation of Madeira's Regional Agency for the Development of Research Technology and Inovation (ARDITI) and the Oceanic Observatorium of Madeira (OOM).Lectures will be given by researchers with experience on the field, and the pelagic trips guided by an experienced tour leader. GOALS:to provide the participants thechance to learn more about the marine life in general, covering aspects of the biology,species identification, and standard research techniques applied to the studyof whales and dolphins, as well as of other associated megafauna inhabiting theMadeiran waters such as sea birds, turtles and the endangered Mediterraneanmonk seal. To provide the participants anintensive sea life watching experience during the week, covering: datacollection (visual and photographic data) and the chance to discuss real lifedifficulties in data collection and species identification; adequateapproaching procedures / best practices when near the animals; and ‘reading’animals signs of stress.PRICE:290€ (early registration: 261€, untill 15 February). 10% discount for students. INFORMATION and BOOKING:please contact the responsibles for the course: Luís Dias / Filipe Alves at ventura(a)venturadomar.com with the subject 'Whales & Dolphins Practical Course'.A brochure with more details is available upon request. Best regards, Filipe Alves Marine biologist, PhDCIIMAR-Madeirahttp://home.ciimarmadeira.org/index.php?page=filipealves Ventura | nature emotionshttp://www.venturadomar.com/team

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New fossil mysticete Metopocetus hunteri
by Felix G. Marx 28 Jan '16

28 Jan '16

Dear colleagues, please find below the abstract of a newly published article describing a new fossil mysticete, Metopocetus hunteri, from the Late Miocene of the Netherlands. Marx, F.G., Bosselaers, M.E.J., and Louwye, S. 2016. A new species of Metopocetus (Cetacea, Mysticeti, Cetotheriidae) from the Late Miocene of the Netherlands. PeerJ 4:e1572. The family Cetotheriidae has played a major role in recent discussions of baleen whale phylogenetics. Within this group, the enigmatic, monotypic Metopocetus durinasus has been interpreted as transitional between herpetocetines and other members of the family, but so far has been restricted to a single, fragmentary cranium of uncertain provenance and age. Here, we expand the genus and shed new light on its phylogenetic affinities and functional morphology by describing Metopocetus hunteri sp. nov. from the Late Miocene of the Netherlands. Unlike the holotype of M. durinasus, the material described here is confidently dated and preserves both the tympanic bulla and additional details of the basicranium. M. hunteri closely resembles M. durinasus, differing primarily in its somewhat less distally expanded compound posterior process of the tympanoperiotic. Both species are characterised by the development of an unusually large fossa on the ventral surface of the paroccipital process, which extends anteriorly on to the compound posterior process and completely floors the facial sulcus. In life, this enlarged fossa may have housed the posterior sinus and/or the articulation of the stylohyal. Like other cetotheriids, Metopocetus also bears a well-developed, posteriorly-pointing dorsal infraorbital foramen near the base of the ascending process of the maxilla, the precise function of which remains unclear. The article is open access and can be freely read and downloaded here: https://peerj.com/articles/1572/ Kind regards, Felix Marx ________________________________ Felix G. Marx PhD Marie Sklodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellow *Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium *Monash University, Melbourne, Australia *Museum Victoria, Melbourne, Australia Address: School of Biological Sciences, Monash University 25 Rainforest Walk, VIC 3800, Australia Tel. +61 (0)3 9905 1190 (Monash University) or +61 (0)3 8341 7733 (Museum Victoria)

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