November 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Aquatic Mammals 42.4 available online
by Kathleen - Aquatic Mammals 29 Nov '16

29 Nov '16

Dear MARMAM and ECS-talk subscribers, Apologies to those of you who will receive duplicate emails due to cross-posting. The following titles represent the contents of the most recent issue (Volume 42, issue 4, 2016) of Aquatic Mammals. The online issue is now available at this link: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=cate… <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=cate…> For individuals with a print subscription, the double print copy of 42.3/42.4 will be mailed in December. In January 2017, Aquatic Mammals will be launching a revised web site. Stay Tuned! Also in 2017, Aquatic Mammals will be increasing from four to six issues per year. We will publish online on January 15, March 15, May 15, July 15, September 15, and November 15, with hard copies printed in double three times a year for print subscribers. Aquatic Mammals is the longest running peer-reviewed journal dedicated to research on aquatic mammals and is published quarterly with manuscripts available as published PDFs in real time. Further information about the journal can be found at: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/> To submit a manuscript for publication consideration, please visit: http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php <http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php> If you subscribe to Aquatic Mammals online, you can visit the journal web site and sign in to download all articles from this volume: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/> Please do not contact the listserv editors for PDFs or copies of the articles. To obtain a PDF, please subscribe to Aquatic Mammals http://tinyurl.com/AMsubscribe <http://tinyurl.com/AMsubscribe> or contact the corresponding author for reprints. Links to a purchase page for each article are also included below. Please see list below for Volume 42, issue 4 contents. Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. With regards, Kathleen Dudzinski, Ph.D. Editor, Aquatic Mammals business(a)aquaticmammalsjournal.org <mailto:business@aquaticmammalsjournal.org> Elisa L. Bravo Rebolledo, Lonneke L. IJsseldijk, Liliane Solé, Lineke Begeman, Simon de Vries, Louis van den Boom, Jaime Camalich Carpizo, and Mardik F. Leopold. (2016). Unorthodox Sampling of a Fin Whale’s (Balaenoptera physalus) Diet Yields Several New Mesopelagic Prey Species. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 417-420. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.417 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Lori K. Polasek, Charles Frost, Jeremy H. M. David, Michael A. Meyer, & Randall W. Davis. (2016). Myoglobin Distribution in the Locomotory Muscles of Cape Fur Seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus). Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 421-427. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.421 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Lauren T. Harshaw, Iskande V. Larkin, Robert K. Bonde, Charles J. Deutsch, & Richard C. Hill. (2016). Morphometric Body Condition Indices of Wild Florida Manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris). Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 428-439. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.428 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Noel Y. Takeuchi, Michael T. Walsh, Robert K. Bonde, James A. Powell, Dean A. Bass, Joseph C. Gaspard III, & David S. Barber. (2016). Baseline Reference Range for Trace Metal Concentrations in Whole Blood of Wild and Managed West Indian Manatees (Trichechus manatus) in Florida and Belize. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 440-453. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.440 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Renée P. Koper & Stephanie Plön. (2016). Interspecific Interactions Between Cetacean Species in Algoa Bay, South Africa. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 454-461. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.454 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Anna Norliza Zulkifli Poh, Cindy Peter, Jenny Ngeian, Andrew Alek Tuen, & Gianna Minton. (2016). Abundance Estimates of Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in Kuching Bay, East Malaysia. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 462-465. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.462 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Letizia Fiorucci, Francesco Grande, Filippo Nespola, Roberto Macrelli, Laura Menchetti, Gabriele Brecchia, & Patrizia Casagrande Proietti. (2016). Microbiological Assessment of Some Culturable Microbiotafrom Clinically Healthy Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) Under Human Care. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 466-469. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.466 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Janet M. Lanyon & Heather Janetzki . (2016). Mortalities of Southern Right Whales (Eubalaena australis) in a Subtropical Wintering Ground, Southeast Queensland. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 470-475. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.470 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Eric A. Ramos, Delma N. Castelblanco-Martínez, Carlos A. Niño-Torres, Klavdija Jenko, & Nicole Auil Gomez. (2016). A Review of the Aquatic Mammals of Belize. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 476-493. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.476 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Yi-Lun Tsai, Shih-Yu Chen, Suen-Chuain Lin, & Jiun-Yuan Li. (2016). Effects of Physiological Factors and Seasonal Variations on Hematology and Plasma Biochemistry of Beluga Whales (Delphinapterus leucas) Managed in Pingtung, Taiwan. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 494-506. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.494 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Roanne Manzano-Roth, E. Elizabeth Henderson, Stephen W. Martin, Cameron Martin, & Brian Matsuyama. (2016). Impacts of U.S. Navy Training Events on Blainville’s Beaked Whale (Mesoplodon densirostris) Foraging Dives in Hawaiian Waters. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 507-518. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.507 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Thevarit Svarachorn, Jes Kettratad, Nuttakorn Thubthong, & Nantarika Chansue. (2016). Sound Characteristics and Primary Descriptions of Vocalizations Associated with Behaviours of Captive Irrawaddy Dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris). Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 519-530. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.519 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Rebeccah A. Hazelkorn, Bruce A. Schulte, & Tara M. Cox. (2016). Persistent Effects of Begging on Common Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Behavior in an Estuarine Population. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 531-541. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.531 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Claryana Araújo-Wang & John Y. Wang. (2016). Water Spouting by Botos (Inia geoffrensis): A Risky Behaviour? Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 542-544. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.542 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> Teresa M. Martin & Maja Nimak-Wood. (2016). The First Confirmed At-Sea Sighting of Longman’s Beaked Whale (Indopacetus pacificus) in Kenyan Waters. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 545-548. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.545 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…> E. Elizabeth Henderson, Stephen W. Martin, Roanne Manzano-Roth, & Brian M. Matsuyama. (2016). Occurrence and Habitat Use of Foraging Blainville’s Beaked Whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) on a U.S. Navy Range in Hawaii. Aquatic Mammals 42.4: 549-562. DOI: 10.1578/AM.42.4.2016.549 <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti…>

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Sei and Bryde's whale image request
by Caroline Weir 29 Nov '16

29 Nov '16

Dear MARMAM community, We are looking for good-quality images of the dorsal fins of Bryde's and sei whales (and other similar Balaenopterids) for inclusion in a study that will aim to determine whether there are inherent differences between the two species' dorsal fins (or other features) that will assist in reliable field-based identification. Confusion between Bryde's and sei whales occurred in whaling records and continues to persist today amongst many observers working in geographic areas where both species could potentially occur concurrently. Good-quality images will mean photographs taken while perpendicular to the animal and at sufficiently low eye height and proximity to the animal for the dorsal fin profile (i.e. shape, height) to be suitable for comparative purposes. We would also welcome photographs showing the bodies of surfacing individuals (i.e. perpendicular body shots that show the blowhole, flank and/or dorsal fin). We are looking for a selection of images acquired from different geographic areas worldwide. We will only be able to use images in which the species identification has been confirmed by the photographer (i.e. where key features such as rostral ridges were viewed at close range). Please limit the number of images per individual whale to no more than five. We would be glad to receive images relating to a single individual or multiple images comprising many different individuals, but please specify in the file/folder name whether images relate to the same or different animals. Please submit your images by 31 December 2016 to the following email address: brydeswhaleproject(a)gmail.com All contributors will be fully acknowledged. We look forward to hearing from you, Kind regards Caroline Weir and Gwenith Penry Caroline Weir Sei Whale Project Officer Falklands Conservation PO Box 26, Stanley, Falkland Islands. FIQQ 1ZZ www.falklandsconservation.com

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45th EAAM Symposium Announcement
by Javier Almunia 28 Nov '16

28 Nov '16

Please find the text below with the announcement of the 45th EAAM Symposium and details on key speakers ———————————————————————————— March 8-11, 2017 – Acquario di Genova will host the 45th Symposium of the European Association for Aquatic Mammals (EAAM) Professional experts, curators, veterinarians, trainers, researchers from all over Europe will get together to share experiences, protocols and research activities concerning the management and protection of aquatic mammals. Our Key note speakers: Diana Reiss, Vincent Jannik and Sandro Mazzariol, will disseminate sound scientific based knowledge on the biology and threats affecting marine mammal species and suggest mitigating actions to promote active conservation initiatives. Please visit the websites on: http://www.eaam.org/open-announcements/45o-eaam-annual-symposium-acquario-d… or http://www.acquariodigenova.it/eaam-the-45th-annual-symposium/#/eaam to make sure you submit your paper and take advantage of the early bird registration!!! ___________________________________________________ Dr. Javier Almunia Director de Asuntos Medioambientales Loro Parque Fundación Avda. Loro Parque, s/n 38400 Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife (Canary Islands) Tel: +34 922 37 40 81 - +34 922 37 38 41 Fax: + 34 922 37 31 10 Skype: javieralmunia www.loroparque-fundacion.org

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LAST CALL FOR MARINE MAMMAL VOLUNTEERS AND TEACHING COURSES IN MONTENEGRO
by aylin akkaya 26 Nov '16

26 Nov '16

We have two places left for a marine mammal placement under the Marine Mammals Research Association and National History of Montenegro in Montenegro, starting from December 2016. Montenegro Dolphin Project is the first year round study and aim to address the questions on cetacean abundance, distribution and behaviour through boat and land surveys. The 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, with courses on ArcGIS, theodolite operation, DISCOVERY and behavioural sampling. VOLUNTEERS are primarily responsible for behavioural data collection, theodolite operation, photographing cetacean individuals and cataloging dolphin pictures, data entry. Training will be provided beforehand. The land surveys will be min of twice a week and boat surveys will be once a week, depending on the weather. There will be an opportunity to undertake a personal research project and write a publication supervised by the project director. REQUIREMENTS Knowledge on marine mammal species 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 minimum duration of the placements is normally 2 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 550 euro per month, which covers the accommodation, equipment, training and working expenses for the participants. Participants should cover their own travel expenses to Montenegro where all projects start/end. To follow our activities online please follow us in facebook; https://www.facebook.com/DMAD-Marine-Mammals-Research-Association-157422324… TO APPLY Send CV and cover letter by e-mail to akkayaaylinn(a)gmail.comDr. Aylin Akkaya BaşProject DirectorDeniz Memelileri Araştırma Derneği (DMAD)Marine Mammals Research Association+90 5337739867info@dmad.org.trthttp://www.dmad.org.tr/

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International Journal of Comparative Psychology: Special Issue - A Tribute to Dr. Stan Kuczaj
by Hill, Heather 25 Nov '16

25 Nov '16

Dear Readers: International Journal of Comparative Psychology has just published its latest issue on www.eScholarship.org<http://www.eScholarship.org> Including several new research papers, we would also like to draw attention to the first part of a Special Issue dedicated to Dr. Stan Kuczaj and his influence on the study of marine mammals. Respectfully, Dr. Heather M. Hill Heather M. Hill, PhD, Editor-in-Chief Associate Professor Department of Psychology St. Mary's University hhill1(a)stmarytx.edu<mailto:hhill1@stmarytx.edu> International Journal of Comparative Psychology Vol 29, Iss 1 (2016) Table of Contents https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/issue/view/1899 Letters -------- Memories - Stanley "Stan" A. Kuczaj, II Heather M Hill Stan Kuczaj Tribute -------- A Legacy of Research Inspired by Dr. Stan Kuczaj (1950 - 2016) A Special Issue - Part 1 Heather M. Hill, Marie Trone, Rachel Walker, Holli C. Eskelinen Neither Toy nor Tool: Grass-wearing Behavior among Free-Ranging Bottlenose Dolphins in Western Florida Ann Weaver, Stan Kuczaj Variety and use of objects carried by provisioned wild Australian humpback dolphins (Sousa sahulensis) in Tin Can Bay, Queensland, Australia Tamzin M Barber Behavioral lateralization in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) Kara Tyler-Julian, Kate M Chapman, Candice Frances, Gordon B Bauer Lateralized Behavior of Bottlenose Dolphins Using an Underwater Maze Fay E Clark, Stan A Kuczaj II Mating Behaviors Exhibited by a Captive Male Pacific Walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) Jessica M McCord, Erin E. Frick, Dianne Cameron, Stan A Kuczaj, II The Development of Echolocation in Bottlenose Dolphins Jennifer Hendry Harder, Heather M. Hill, Kathleen M. Dudzinski, Karissa Tranel Sanabria, Sara Guarino, Stan A. Kuczaj, II Chickadee behavioural response to varying threat levels of predator and conspecific calls Jenna V. Congdon, Allison H. Hahn, Neil McMillan, Marc T. Avey, Christopher B. Sturdy Perspectives on the Function of Behaviors Synchronized with Calling in Female Killer Whales, Orcinus orca: Patterns of Bubbling and Nodding in Bouts Ann E. Bowles, Whitney B. Musser, Samuel L. Denes, Dawn M. Grebner, Kelly Flaherty Clark Dolphins signal success by producing a victory squeal Dianna Samuelson Dibble, Kaitlin Rhianna Van Alstyne, Sam Ridgway Flexibility and Use of a Novel Tool in Asian Small Clawed Otters (Aonyx cinerea) Erin Elizabeth Frick, Leor Friedman, Jessica Peranteau, Kaitlyn Beacham, Stan A Kuczaj II Performance on a Means End Task by Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus) in a Positive Reinforcement-Based Protected Contact Setting Lauren Highfill, Jessica M. Spencer, Otto Fad, Ann Marie Arnold Investigating the Effects of Applied Learning Principles on the "Create" Response in Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) Mary Katherine Lawrence, Jill L. Borger-Turner, Ted N. Turner, Holli C. Eskelinen Mirror perception in mice: Preference for and stress reduction by mirrors and stress reduction by mirror Shigeru Watanabe Responses to Familiar and Unfamiliar Humans by Belugas (Delphinapterus leucas), Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), & Pacific White-Sided Dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens): A Replication and Extension Heather M. Hill, Deirdre Yeater, Sarah Gallup, Sara Guarino, Steve Lacy, Tricia Dees, Stan Kuczaj Research Article -------- Spatial overshadowing in pigeons: Evidence for an acquisition deficit Jared Wong, Kenneth J. Leising, Aaron P Blaisdell Animal Communication and Human Language: An overview Leonardo Barón Birchenall Pinning in the play fighting of rats: A comparative perspective with methodological recommendations Stephanie M Himmler, Brett T Himmler, Rafał Stryjek, Klaudia Modlińska, Wojciech Pisula, Sergio M Pellis Ring-tailed coatis anointing with soap: a new variation of self-medication culture? Aline D. C. Gasco, Andrés M. Pérez-Acosta, Patrícia Ferreira Monticelli Orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus) and children (Homo sapiens) use stick tools in a puzzle box task involving semantic prospection Ashlynn M. Keller, Caroline M. DeLong

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BC Marine Mammal Symposium online
by David Rosen 25 Nov '16

25 Nov '16

On-line Marine Mammal Symposium -- Saturday Nov 26 The 24th Annual BC Marine Mammal Symposium will be streamed on YouTube Live this Saturday, November 26 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Join us for short presentations as well as discussion on issues pertaining to killer whales, porpoise, sea lions and other marine mammals. This all-day event is open to students, researchers, educators, businesses and others involved with marine mammals. Anyone in one or more of these categories is welcome to attend. There are no more seats available to attend the Symposium in person. However, the entire event is being broadcast live on YouTube, where you are welcome to ask questions and join the discussion. Tune in at any time during the event. Please bookmark or go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tu-Zm6b_pA We hope you will join us on line! UBC Marine Mammal Research Unit The Pacific Wildlife Foundation Pacific Whale Watching Association

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Faculty Research Assistant position available, University of Maryland
by Jess Wingfield 25 Nov '16

25 Nov '16

Faculty Research Assistant The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL), is accepting applications for a Faculty Research Assistant to assist with a passive acoustic monitoring study for marine mammals of Maryland. This position is a contractual position for 3 months with the possibility of extension dependent upon successful performance. Duties will include deployment and recovery of acoustic equipment at sea, and processing and analysis of acoustic data. The project involves the use of SM3M hydrophones and C-PODs. Experience with these devices, or similar types, will be preferable. Applicants should be familiar with Excel and have experience with ambient and marine mammal sound analysis, including software such as PAMGUARD and Raven. Experience with the R software package and GIS mapping is also desirable. For more details about the position, please contact Dr. Helen Bailey ( hbailey(a)umces.edu) Minimum requirement is a B.S. degree with more than 2 years research experience, which should include marine mammal acoustic applications. Salary dependent upon qualifications and experience. Anticipated start date is 1 February 2017. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information of three references (including email and phone) to be received by 12/15/16 by email to personnel(a)cbl.umces.edu with FRA-HB in the subject line. *UMCES is an EOE/affirmative action employer. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women, and minorities are encouraged to apply.*

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Re: [MARMAM] MSc and PhD opportunity to study acoustic ecology of coastal dolphins and whales in Brazil
by Marcos Rossi-santos 25 Nov '16

25 Nov '16

Dear marmam students, The Animal Behavior and Acoustic Ecology Laboratory of the Universidade Federal do Reconcavo da Bahia is opening applications for high motivated students to work in: (1) A MSc Project to study the acoustic ecology of Guiana Dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) in the Baia de Todos os Santos and coastal waters of Salvador, Bahia state (2) A PhD project to study the acoustic ecology of Humpback whales in the Bahia state waters (core area for this breeding ground) The positions are part of the collaboration between this Lab and the Graduation Program in Ecology at the Universidade Federal da Bahia (Qualis Level 6). We also encourage applications of non-Brazilian students. Interested candidates should send me a private message (m.rossisantos(a)yahoo.com.br) stating their reasons to apply, with an attached CV and two names for references, preferably before Dec 20th. Best regards, Marcos R. Rossi-Santos, PhD Coordinator - Animal Behavior and Acoustic Ecology Laboratory - Universidade Federal do Reconcavo da Bahia Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Ecologia e Biomonitoramento - Universidade Federal da Bahia Em Quinta-feira, 24 de Novembro de 2016 17:17, Marcos Rossi-santos <m.rossisantos(a)yahoo.com.br> escreveu: Dear Marmam Editor, could you please post the following announcement: Dear marmamers students, The Animal Behavior and Acoustic Ecology Laboratory of the Universidade Federal do Reconcavo da Bahia is opening applications for high motivated students to work in: (1) A MSc Project to study the acoustic ecology of Guiana Dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) in the Baia de Todos os Santos and coastal waters of Salvador, Bahia state (2) A PhD project to study the acoustic ecology of Humpback whales in the Bahia state waters (core area for this breeding ground) The positions are part of the collaboration between this Lab and the Graduation Program in Ecology at the Universidade Federal da Bahia (Qualis Level 6). We also encourage applications of non-Brazilian students. Interested candidates should send me a private message (m.rossisantos(a)yahoo.com.br) stating their reasons to apply, with an attached CV and two names for references, preferably before Dec 20th. Best regards, Marcos R. Rossi-Santos, PhD Coordinator - Animal Behavior and Acoustic Ecology Laboratory - Universidade Federal do Reconcavo da Bahia Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Ecologia e Biomonitoramento - Universidade Federal da Bahia

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New publications on the use of PCBs as tracers of feeding ecology and biopsy sampling in contamination assessment studies
by Paula Mendez Fernandez 24 Nov '16

24 Nov '16

Dear MARMAM colleagues, It is with great pleasure that my co-authors and I would like to share our most recent publication in Ecological Indicators and a less recent publication in Marine Pollution Bulletin: Méndez-Fernandez P, Simon-Bouhet B, Bustamante P, Chouvelon T, Ferreira M, López A, Moffat CF, Pierce GJ, Russell M, Santos MB, Spitz J, Vingada JV, Webster L, Read FL, González AF, Caurant F (2017). INTER-SPECIES DIFFERENCES IN POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS PATTERNS FROM FIVE SYMPATRIC SPECIES OF ODONTOCETES: CAN PCBS BE USED AS TRACERS OF FEEDING ECOLOGY? Ecological Indicators, Volume 74, March 2017, Pages 98-108. Abstract Concentrations of thirty two polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in the blubber of five sympatric species of odontocetes stranded or by-caught along the Northwest coast of the Iberian Peninsula: common dolphin (_Delphinus delphis_), long-finned pilot whale (_Globicephala melas_), harbour porpoise (_Phocoena phocoena_), striped dolphin (_Stenella coeruleoalba_) and bottlenose dolphin (_Tursiops truncatus_). Multivariate analyses were applied to evaluate the ability of PCB patterns to discriminate these sympatric species and to determine which eco-biological factors influence these patterns, thus evaluating the relevance of PCB concentrations as biogeochemical tracers of feeding ecology. The five species could be separated according to their PCB patterns. Different exposure to these contaminants, a consequence of their different dietary preferences or habitats, together with potentially dissimilar metabolic capacities, likely explain these results; sex, age, habitat and the type of prey eaten were the most important eco-biological parameters of those tested. Although, no single congener has been specifically identified as a tracer of feeding ecology, 4 congeners from the 22 analysed seemed to be the most useful and around 12 congeners appear to be enough to achieve good discrimination of the cetaceans studied. Therefore, this study suggests that PCB patterns can be used as tracers for studying the feeding ecology, sources of contamination or even population structure of cetacean species from the Northwest Iberian Peninsula. Méndez-Fernandez P, Galluzzi Polesi P, Taniguchi S, Santos MC de O, Montone RC (2016). VALIDATING THE USE OF BIOPSY SAMPLING IN CONTAMINATION ASSESSMENT STUDIES OF SMALL CETACEANS. Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 107, Issue 1, 15 June 2016, Pages 364-369. Abstract Remote biopsy sampling is the most common technique for acquiring samples from free-ranging marine mammals. However, such techniques may result in variable sampling being sometimes superficial skin and blubber biopsies. For decades, blubber has been used to monitor the exposure of marine mammals to persistent organic pollutants (POPs), but little is known regarding the variability of POPs as a function of blubber depth in small cetaceans and the available literature offers variable results. Thus, the aim of the present study was to validate biopsy sampling for monitoring contaminant concentrations in small, free-ranging cetaceans. Samples from the dorsal blubber of 10 incidentally captured Atlantic spotted dolphins (_Stenella frontalis_) were separated into two different layers (outer and inner) to investigate the influence of sampling depth on POP concentrations. POP concentrations were compared to those of the full blubber layer. The results revealed no significant differences in lipid content between males and females or among the inner, outer and full blubber layers (p > 0.05). Moreover, the wet and lipid weight concentrations of all POP classes analysed [i.e. polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs), chlordanes (CHLs) and mirex] did not differ significantly with blubber depth (p > 0.05). POP classes followed the same decreasing order of wet weight concentrations in blubber layers and full blubber: PCBs > DDTs > PBDEs > mirex > HCB > HCHs > CHLs. Moreover, there was a low degree of differentiation in the accumulation of POP congeners. The present findings indicated that the distribution of contaminants was homogenous with blubber depth, which validates the use of biopsy sampling for the assessment of contaminants in small cetaceans. Full text and PDF files can be downloaded here https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1U5cJ,XRNLRQ55 [1] and here http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X16302223 Alternatively, please send PDF requests to paula.mendez_fernandez(a)univ-lr.fr All the best Paula Links: ------ [1] https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1U5cJ,XRNLRQ55

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Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program 2017 Summer Field Positions
by Thea Johanos-Kam - NOAA Federal 23 Nov '16

23 Nov '16

The Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR) works with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center through a cooperative agreement with the University of Hawaii to conduct research and recovery activities on Hawaiian monk seals. JIMAR hires program staff through the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH) and is currently seeking applicants for *Biological Research Technicians and Biological Research Assistants *for the 2017 field research season. Selected individuals will study the endangered Hawaiian monk seal in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This work is part of a long-term annual Hawaiian monk seal population monitoring and conservation program by NMFS and includes: conducting trend counts, tagging seals, identifying individual seals by tags, scars, natural markings, and applied bleach marks, monitoring reproduction, survival, injuries, entanglements, migration, performing necropsies, collecting scat & spew samples for food habitat, parasite load, and hormonal analysis, collecting tissue samples for DNA analysis, and collecting and removing debris capable of entangling seals and other wildlife. Behavior data are also collected at some sites. Researchers at some sites may participate in shark mitigation activities. General information about the program can be found at: http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/hawaiian_monk_seal/ The number of positions and/or continuation of the program are subject to funding. These positions will be for all or a subset of the 6 major monk seal sub-populations in the NWHI. Fieldwork is accomplished by 2-4 member teams in remote camps. Researchers live in either wall tents or buildings at the various sites. All sites are accessible by ship (2-8 day travel; 830-2,300 km from Honolulu), and one is accessible by plane. Few (if any) supply opportunities exist and outside communication is limited. The employment period will include ~3-4 weeks of training and packing in Honolulu. Once the field season is over, an additional ~1-3 weeks of employment will take place in Honolulu to clean up gear and summarize data. Dates are subject to change, but the positions are tentatively scheduled to begin late March to early April with a field deployment date in early May. Field staff will be deployed approximately 4 months with a tentative return date in late August. The position end date is tentatively scheduled for some time in September. Those assigned to the field camp at one site (French Frigate Shoals) will likely not return to Honolulu until mid-October so the end date for them will be extended to reflect a later return date, likely from mid to late October. Travel to and from Honolulu and food, lodging, and transportation in Honolulu before deployment are not provided. Transportation between Honolulu and field sites and food and lodging in the field are provided. Due to unforeseen circumstances, departure delays could result in longer periods in Honolulu that may result in additional uncompensated living expenses. Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien, and must be able to meet both the U.S. Department of Commerce and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access the work location, and also the health requirements to board a NOAA vessel. Instructions to apply for both positions are in the job postings below. *Please clearly address each qualification in your cover letter. * *JIMAR PIFSC Biological Research Technician* *Job ID# 16608* Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. *MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY:*$2,695/Mon. *DUTIES: *Performs daily maintenance and operation of field camp in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands or on remote shorelines in the main Hawaiian Islands. Collects census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals. Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls. Required to lead other field personnel. Responsible for returning and storing all field equipment and supplies at the end of field season. Collaborates with scientists within NMFS to conduct and analyze field studies on the Hawaiian monk seal. *PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING: *Associate's Degree from an accredited community college in Marine Biology, Biology, Fisheries Oceanography, or other related field. *EXPERIENCE: *One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings. Experience conducting research on Hawaiian monk seals. Experience handling monk seals. *ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS: *Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must be able to meet and maintain United States Department of Commerce (DOC) and NOAA security requirements to access work location. Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien. Good communications skills (both written and oral). Leadership and decision-making skills. Ability to perform data entry. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, must be NOAA certified for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training). Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to meet and maintain US Department of Commerce (DOC), NOAA security requirements for working in a federal facility, which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed prior to date of hire and maintained throughout duration of employment. Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote island. *PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: *Ability to swim. Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods of time. Must be able to work long hours in the sun. Must be able to walk long distances (up to seven (7) miles) in the sand carrying twenty-five to thirty-five (25-35) pounds of field gear unassisted. Must be able to obtain and maintain medical clearance for embarking/working on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels, which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations. *POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS: *As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies and procedures. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). *SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS: *Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp. Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience. Prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammalogy or related field. Ability to perform basic data analysis. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats. *INQUIRIES: *Nicole Wakazuru-Yoza (808)956-5018 (Oahu). *APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: *Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_employment(a)rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 or (808)956-0872. *CLOSING DATE: December 5, 2016.* *JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT* *Job ID# 16614**.* Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries (NMFS),Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. *MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY:*$2,491/Mon. *DUTIES: *Under guidance of field camp leader and/or NMFS personnel, assists in camp preparations, daily maintenance and operation of field camp, and collection of census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands or on remote shorelines in the main Hawaiian Islands. Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls. Assists with return, repair, and cleanup of field equipment and supplies at the end of camp and with the processing of field data. *PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:* *EDUCATION/TRAINING: *High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. *EXPERIENCE: *One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings. Experience with handling of wildlife. *ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:*Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must be able to meet and maintain the United States Department of Commerce (DOC) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access work location. Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien. Good communication and team skills. Ability to perform data entry. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, must be NOAA certified for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training). Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to meet and maintain US Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements for working in a federal facility, which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed prior to date of hire and maintained throughout duration of employment. Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote islands. *PHYSICAL/MEDICAL* *REQUIREMENTS: *Must have ability to swim. Must be able to work in remote locations for extended periods of time. Must be able to work long hours in the sun. Must be able to walk long distances (up to seven (7) miles) in the sand carrying twenty-five to thirty-five (25-35) pounds of field gear unassisted. Must be able to manually restrain immature seals (up to two hundred (200) pounds assisted). Must be able to obtain and maintain medical clearance to work on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels, which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations, and maintain throughout duration of employment. *POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS: *As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies and procedures. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). *SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS: *Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp. Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience. Prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammalogy or related field. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess prior experience operating small boats and/or the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats. *INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru-Yoza (808)956-5018 <%28808%29956-5018> (Oahu). * *APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: *Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_employment(a)rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 or(808)956-0872. *CLOSING DATE: December 5, 2016.*

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