June 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication on southern right whale reproductive success
by Elisa Seyboth 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors I am pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in the Scientific Reports: Seyboth, E., Groch, K., Dalla Rosa, L., Reid, K., Flores, P.A.C., Secchi, E.R. Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis) Reproductive Success is Influenced by Krill (Euphausia superba) Density and Climate. Sci. Rep. 6, 28205; doi: 10.1038/srep28205 (2016). Abstract The reproductive success of southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) depends on body condition and, therefore, on foraging success. This, in turn, might be affected by climatically driven change in the abundance of the species main prey, krill (Euphausia superba), on the feeding grounds. Annual data on southern right whale number of calves were obtained from aerial surveys carried out between 1997 and 2013 in southern Brazil, where the species concentrate during their breeding season. The number of calves recorded each year varied from 7 to 43 (?=?21.11?±?11.88). Using cross-correlation analysis we examined the response of the species to climate anomalies and krill densities. Significant correlations were found with krill densities (r?=?0.69, p?=?0.002, lag 0 years), Oceanic Niño Index (r?=??0.65, p?=?0.03, lag 6 years), Antarctic Oscillation (r?=?0.76, p?=?0.01, lag 7 years) and Antarctic sea ice area (r?=??0.68, p?=?0.002, lag 0 years). Our results suggest that global climate indices influence southern right whale breeding success in southern Brazil by determining variation in food (krill) availability for the species. Therefore, increased frequency of years with reduced krill abundance, due to global warming, is likely to reduce the current rate of recovery of southern right whales from historical overexploitation. Full text and pdf file are available at http://www.nature.com/articles/srep28205 Cheers, Elisa Seyboth. M.Sc. Elisa Seyboth Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha - EcoMega Instituto de Oceanografia Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG Tel.: (53) 32336537 / 81093713

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Marine Mammal Research Internships in Hawai‘i
by PWF Research Department 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF), based in Maui, Hawai‘i, is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting whales and other marine life through research, education, and conservation. Our researchers have studied whales and dolphins throughout the Pacific for over 30 years and currently conduct projects in Hawai‘i, Australia, and Ecuador. We offer internships in our Marine Mammal Research Program year-round. We are currently recruiting interns for our September – December internship. The deadline for applications is June 30. *Commitment * PWF seeks performance-driven and dedicated individuals for long-term (approximately 4 month) internships. Successful applicants are expected to dedicate 30 - 40 hours per week working both in the office and on our research vessel. Applicants must be available to work Monday - Friday and be available for all field work. Some weekend work may also be required. *Responsibilities* Interns will be based at PWF’s headquarters on Maui, Hawaii and will participate with multiple projects involving mysticetes (humpback whales) and odontocetes (numerous species of toothed whales and dolphins). Primary responsibilities are office-based and include: - Photo-identification matching of whale flukes and/or dolphin dorsal fins; - Data entry and archival tasks; - Data processing and analysis; - General operational tasks. Additional responsibilities include field work: boat surveys within the four-island region of Maui, and land-based surveys using a theodolite. Each intern may be assigned to a specific cetacean project according to skill set and availability. Interns also assist staff with other projects, such as outreach events, as the need arises. *Requirements* Ideal applicants should: - Be advanced undergraduates or recent graduates in biology or a related field; - Be available to volunteer on a full-time basis and must be available for all field work; - Have a mature attitude towards research; - Be proficient with computers and data entry; specifically using PCs and the Microsoft Office suite of products; - Have a strong work ethic, attention to detail and superior organizational skills; - Have the ability to work well both in a team and independently; - Have the ability to admit to mistakes; - Be adaptable and a fast-learner; - Be able to collect data in a detail-oriented manner; - Have boating experience; - Speak, read and write English fluently. Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water and on shore in sometimes extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures. Field days typically exceed eight hours and occur approximately two times per week. *Compensation* There is no financial compensation for these positions and interns are responsible for their own living and transportation expenses. There is public transportation available on the island. Once accepted, the PWF staff will be able to assist in finding suitable housing options. *Application process* Applicants must be authorized to legally remain in Hawai’i for 4 months if they are not U.S. citizens or authorized to work in the U.S. Interested candidates should submit an application with the following: - A cover letter including your availability, i.e. preferred time period (1 page only); - A resume describing training, experience and relevant skills (2 pages only); - Names and contact information of three references. Please send these items as e-mail attachments (PDF preferred) to research(a)pacificwhale.org - No phone calls or drop-ins, please! *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793, USA Email: research(a)pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org -- <http://www.pacificwhale.org/content/ocean-camp> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission and any accompanying attachments contain information belonging to the sender which may be confidential and legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom this electronic mail transmission was sent as indicated above. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of the information contained in this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy all copies of this transmission and all attachments. Thank you!

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New publication on Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II sequence polymorphism in long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas) from the North Atlantic
by Silvia Monteiro 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

Dear Marmam Readers, I am very pleased to announce the following publication: Sílvia S. Monteiro , José V. Vingada , Alfredo López , Graham J. Pierce , Marisa Ferreira , Andrew Brownlow , Bjarni Mikkelsen , Misty Niemeyer , Robert J. Deaville , Catarina Eira , Stuart Piertney (2016). Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II sequence polymorphism in long-finned pilot whale (*Globicephala melas*) from the North Atlantic. Marine Biology Research doi: 10.1080/17451000.2016.1174266 Abstract Determining how intra-specific genetic diversity is apportioned among natural populations is essential for detecting local adaptation and identifying populations with inherently low levels of extant diversity which may become a conservation concern. Sequence polymorphism at two adaptive loci (MHC DRA and DQB) was investigated in long-finned pilot whales (*Globicephala melas*) from four regions in the North Atlantic and compared with previous data from New Zealand (South Pacific). Three alleles were resolved at each locus, with trans-species allele sharing and higher levels of non-synonymous to synonymous substitution, especially in the DQB locus. Overall nucleotide diversities of 0.49 ± 0.38% and 4.60 ± 2.39% were identified for the DRA and DQB loci, respectively, which are relatively low for MHC loci in the North Atlantic, but comparable to levels previously described in New Zealand (South Pacific). There were significant differences in allele frequencies within the North Atlantic and between the North Atlantic and New Zealand. Patterns of diversity and divergence are consistent with the long-term effects of balancing selection operating on the MHC loci, potentially mediated through the effects of host-parasite coevolution. Differences in allele frequency may reflect variation in pathogen communities, coupled with the effects of differential drift and gene flow. For an early view of this paper, please visit: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17451000.2016.1174266 If you are unable to download the article, please contact me by email and I will be happy to send you a copy: s.monteiro(a)ua.pt Best wishes, Silvia Monteiro ---------------------------------------- Postdoctoral researcher CESAM (Centro de estudos do ambiente e do Mar) University of Aveiro Portugal s.monteiro@ <http://www.bio.ua.pt/>ua.pt www.cesam.ua.pt/silvia.monteiro <http://www.cesam.ua.pt/index.php?tabela=pessoaldetail&menu=95&user=1040> Sociedade Portuguesa de Vida Selvagem/Portuguese Wildlife Society University of Minho Portugal www.socpvs.org

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Re: [MARMAM] Job Posting for the RIverhead FOundation
by Daniella Ferina 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

[cid:image003.jpg@01D1C7D6.65449FE0]Job Announcement Rescue Program Supervisor Date: June 13, 2016 Department: Rescue and Rehabilitation Reports To: Rescue Program Director Available: Immediately Position Location: Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, Riverhead, NY Hours: Full Time salary position (inclusive of weekends and holidays). Hotline coverage required. The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation ("RFMRP") is excited to announce an opening for an experienced Rescue Program Supervisor. If you are passionate for the rehabilitation and preservation of marine mammals and sea turtle, if you are interested in managing their care and the team that supports that effort, we look forward to speaking with you. Duties: * Provide liaison between veterinarian staff and animal care/husbandry staff * Provide clinical management as prescribed by RFMRP veterinary staff * Oversee all aspects of health assessments and medical procedures as directed by veterinary staff including, but not limited to, performing physical examination and conducting blood draws, and administering IV fluids and medication to pinnipeds, sea turtles, and cetaceans * Respond to calls reporting stranded marine mammals and sea turtles and provide education to the public via "Hotline" coverage. * Prepare, organize, manage and provide training programs for volunteer staff * Manage all maintenance of data records and databases * Oversee maintenance programs for all medical and water quality equipment * Provide liaison with the Regional and National Stranding Networks, interact with state (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation) and local municipalities in all matters relating to the operation of the Stranding Investigations Program * Provide liaison to Riverhead Foundation's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). * Provide support to educational outreach programs and assist with the instruction of local university marine mammal and sea turtle rehabilitation class. * Assist with and/or perform post mortem examinations inclusive of field necropsies of marine mammals and sea turtles. * Manage and provide response, husbandry and medical care for pinniped, cetacean and sea turtle species recovered by the RFMRP's Rescue and Rehabilitation Program * Provide assistance with grant writing, final and departmental report publications. * Assist with production and publication of data originating from the Stranding Investigations Program via professional meetings. Qualifications: * Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in Biology, Marine Science or related field. * Minimum of 3 years experience in marine mammal and sea turtle stranding, species identification or other related marine mammal and sea turtle activities. * Minimum of 2 years of animal triage and husbandry of marine mammal and sea turtle species. * Understanding and application of veterinary technology inclusive of sampling procedures, diagnostic techniques and clinical laboratory equipment. Working knowledge of pharmacology and diagnostic imaging (radiograph, ultrasound) a plus. * Veterinary Technician preferred. * A valid driver's license with a clean driving record. * Experience driving large trucks * Strong written and verbal communication skills. * Strong leadership skills in routine and emergency situations. * Strong organizational and time management skills. * Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, GIS and Access software. * Working knowledge of life support systems and equipment used within aquariums (pumps, filtration units, ozone generators) Typical Physical Demands: Candidate will engage in moderate to a high level of physical activity daily (i.e., performing husbandry duties). Position will require work within extreme weather conditions for long hours, sometimes overnight. Candidates should be able to lift 50 pounds and otherwise be is good physical condition. About the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation (RFMRP) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization whose mission is to protect our marine environment through education, rehabilitation, and research. The RFMRP is a member of the Greater Atlantic Region Stranding Network and is located within the Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center in Riverhead, New York. The RFMRP is dedicated to the response, rehabilitation and release of pinnipeds, sea turtles and cetacean species. The rehabilitation facility is the largest pinniped rehabilitation facility and the only long-term cetacean rehabilitation facility within Northeastern United States. The RFMRP's Rescue and Rehabilitation Program responds to approximately 250 stranded marine mammals and sea turtles annually. The RFMRP's Aquatic Animal Health and Conservation Program is dedicated to providing educational outreach programs to the public to further conservation and promote environmental stewardship of the coastal and marine environment. To Apply: Please send your cover letter and resume to careers(a)riverheadfoundation.org<mailto:careers@riverheadfoundation.org> Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Daniella Ferina Rescue Program Supervisor Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation 467 E. Main Street Riverhead, NY 11901 631-369-9840 631-369-9829 Hotline www.riverheadfoundation.org<http://www.riverheadfoundation.org/> [logo no words] From: Daniella Ferina Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2016 11:22 AM To: 'marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca' Subject: Job Posting for the RIverhead FOundation Please post the following job if you can. Thank you Daniella Ferina Rescue Program Supervisor Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation 467 E. Main Street Riverhead, NY 11901 631-369-9840 631-369-9829 Hotline www.riverheadfoundation.org<http://www.riverheadfoundation.org/> [logo no words]

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Cetacean Acoustics position at NMFSs Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center
by Erin Oleson - NOAA Federal 15 Jun '16

15 Jun '16

Aloha. The Cetacean Research Program within the Protected Species Division at NOAAs Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center will soon be recruiting for a bioacoustician to join our group. This note is to provide advanced notice to interested candidates as the application period is expected to be short, and it can take several days to weeks to acquire some of the documents required to apply for US Government positions. The position will be open to US citizens only. Although the position advertisement is not yet available, the positions is expected have the following major duties: - Lead and coordinate passive acoustics research that supports cetacean stock assessment, including evaluation of occurrence, abundance, stock structure, and human impacts. - Conduct multi-variate statistical analyses to understand the relationship between cetacean occurrence and behavioral, environmental or anthropogenic factors. - Identify appropriate passive acoustic instrumentation, algorithms, and data processing approaches for detection, classification, and localization of cetaceans across a broad range of geographic and temporal scales. - Draft manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication and reports of research findings for scientific or regulatory needs. If think you may be interested in applying for this position, you may want to visit https://my.usajobs.gov/Help/faq/application/documents/ <http://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/414908700> to consider what documents you may need to assemble. In particular, those candidates with education at a foreign college or university may wish to explore this site <https://my.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/account/documents/resume/build/education/>: https://my.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/account/documents/resume/build/education/ . When the application period opens for this position, I will post the link to the advertisement to this forum. Cheers, Erin -- Erin Oleson Leader, Cetacean Research Program Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center NOAA Fisheries erin.oleson(a)noaa.gov www.pifsc.noaa.gov/cetacean Mailing address: NOAA IRC NMFS/PIFSC/PSD/Erin Oleson 1845 Wasp Blvd., Building 176 Honolulu, HI 96818 (808) 725-5712 <http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/cetacean>

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New publication on right whale vocal compensation and communication range in noise
by Jennifer Tennessen 15 Jun '16

15 Jun '16

Dear MARMAM readers, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Endangered Species Research. This paper is part of a Theme Section on "21st Century paradigms for measuring and managing the effects of anthropogenic ocean noise." Tennessen JB, Parks SE (2016) Acoustic propagation modeling indicates vocal compensation in noise improves communication range for North Atlantic right whales. Endang Species Res 30: 225-237. doi:10.3354/esr00738 Abstract: Sound from transoceanic shipping is a major component of ocean noise budgets. Baleen whale communication may be particularly vulnerable to shipping noise impacts due to overlap in the frequencies of signals and noise. Baleen whales rely upon acoustic signals to mediate a variety of social interactions when separated beyond visual range. We investigated the potential for noise to interfere with critical reunion events between mother-calf pairs of Endangered North Atlantic right whales *Eubalaena glacialis*, and whether vocal compensation can improve or maintain communication space between the sender and receiver. This information is necessary to inform future conservation efforts. We used acoustic propagation modeling to predict the transmission loss of the primary tonal communication signal used during mother-calf communication, the ‘upcall’, to (1) estimate over what ranges a receiving whale can detect a signal in anthropogenic noise, and (2) determine the effects of vocal compensation on detection range. Our results indicate that both point-source noise from nearby container ships and increased background noise from distant shipping may significantly limit communication space. Additionally, we show how amplitude and frequency compensation can increase the likelihood of detecting communication signals in masking noise under present conditions. We discuss these impacts of ship noise on communication, as well as the evidence that documented noise compensation behaviors of right whales can improve communication range in the presence of low-frequency ship noise. Please find the full text available at: http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v30/p225-237/ Or email me directly for a pdf copy: jennifer.tennessen(a)gmail.com Best wishes, Jennifer Tennessen -- Jennifer B. Tennessen, Ph.D. Research Associate Department of Biology Western Washington University Bellingham, WA, 98225

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New Publication: Polar bear behavior near icebreaker operations in the Chukchi Sea, 1991
by Frances Robertson 15 Jun '16

15 Jun '16

Dear Colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors I am pleased to announce the following publication in this month’s volume of Arctic. *Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) behavior near icebreaker operations in the Chukchi Sea, 1991. * Mari A. Smultea, Jay Brueggeman, Frances Robertson, Dagmar Fertl, Cathy Bacon, Richard A. Rowlett and Gregory A. Green. (2016) Arctic, 69 (2): 177 – 184 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.14430/arctic4566 *Abstract* Increasing interactions of polar bears (*Ursus maritimus*) with human activity, combined with impacts of climate change, are of critical concern for the conservation of the species. Our study quantifies and describes initial reactions and behaviors of polar bears observed from an icebreaker during summer 1991 at two exploratory drilling sites (near sites drilled in 2015) located in the Chukchi Sea 175 km and 312 km west of Barrow, Alaska. Polar bear behavior was described using continuous sampling of six predetermined focal group behavior states (walking, running, swimming, resting, feeding or foraging, unknown) and six behavioral reaction events (no reaction, walking away, running away, approaching, vigilance [i.e., watching], unknown). Forty-six bears in 34 groups were monitored from the *Robert LeMeur* (an Arctic Class 3 icebreaker) for periods of five minutes to 16.1 hours. Significantly more bear groups reacted to icebreaker presence (79%) than not (21%), but no relationship was found between their reactions and distance to or activity of the icebreaker. Reactions were generally brief; vigilance was the most commonly observed reaction, followed by walking or running away for short (< 5 minutes) periods and distances (< 500 m). Eleven percent of bear groups approached the vessel. No significant difference was found between reactions when cubs were present and those when cubs were absent. Despite the limited sample sizes, these findings are relevant to assessing potential impacts of resource development and shipping activities on polar bears, especially given the sparsity of such information in the face of growing human activity in the Arctic offshore areas. Overall, climate change is leading to longer and more extensive open-water seasons in the Arctic and therefore to increasing marine traffic—more vessels (including icebreakers) for a longer time each year over a wider area. For those with access the paper is available at: http://arctic.journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/arctic/index.php/arctic/article/vi… Otherwise please direct all requests for copies of the paper to Mari Smultea mari(a)smulteasciences.com Cheers Frances -- Frances C. Robertson, PhD *Marine Mammal Biologist* Canada (+1) 604 339 4967 frances.c.robertson(a)gmail.com www.distantfin.net www.coastalconnectionvancouver.com

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publication on new dolphin morbillivirus molecular technique
by Sandro Mazzariol 14 Jun '16

14 Jun '16

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the following publication: *Molecular analysis of dolphin morbillivirus: A new sensitive detection method****based on nested RT-PCR.* Centelleghe C, Beffagna G, Zanetti R, Zappulli V, Di Guardo G,Mazzariol S. Abstract: Cetacean Morbillivirus (CeMV) has been identified as the most pathogenic virusfor cetaceans. Over the past three decades, this RNA virus has caused several outbreaks of lethal disease in odontocetes and mysticetes worldwide. Isolationand identification of CeMV RNA is very challenging in whales because of the poor preservation status frequently shown by tissues from stranded animals. Nestedreverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (nested RT-PCR) is used instead of conventional RT-PCR when it is necessary to increase the sensitivity and thespecificity of the reaction. This study describes a new nested RT-PCR technique useful to amplify small amounts of the cDNA copy of Cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV)when it is present in scant quantity in whales' biological specimens. This technique was used to analyze different tissues (lung, brain, spleen and otherlymphoid tissues) from one under human care seal and seven cetaceans stranded along the Italian coastline between October 2011 and September 2015. Awell-characterized, 200 base pair (bp) fragment of the dolphin Morbillivirus (DMV) haemagglutinin (H) gene, obtained by nested RT-PCR, was sequenced and used to confirm DMV positivity in all the eight marine mammals under study. In conclusion, this nested RT-PCR protocol can represent a sensitive detectionmethod to identify CeMV-positive, poorly preserved tissue samples. Furthermore, this is also a rather inexpensive molecular technique, relatively easy to apply. . The paper is available online at the following page: *http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166093416300350* Kind Regards, Sandro Mazzariol

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PhD Project on Sperm Whale Bioacoustics in Australia
by C Erbe 14 Jun '16

14 Jun '16

The Centre for Marine Science & Technology at Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, is looking for a PhD student to study sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) off Australia. Sperm whales exist all around Australia, in deep water, along the continental shelf. They were hunted to near extinction; in particular the number of adult males was reduced by 90%. We have little understanding of population size, demographics and recovery in Australia. Curtin University’s Centre for Marine Science & Technology has 20 years of underwater acoustic recordings from around Australia, many with high enough sampling frequencies to detect sperm whale clicks. We are looking for a PhD student to study the bioacoustics of Australian sperm whales, to develop passive acoustic tools for their monitoring, and to estimate sperm whale occurrence based on primarily acoustic data. We have logistical support for additional field work, including acoustic and visual data collection. However, we do not have a student stipend available; i.e., the student would have to cover their own living expenses. Australian and New Zealand students do not pay tuition fees but are encouraged to apply for Australian Postgraduate Awards that cover living expenses. International students would need to source their own funding or scholarship to cover international tuition fees (about 35,000 AUD/year = 26,000 USD/year). This project will start in very early 2017. The student will be supervised by Robert McCauley, Christine Erbe and Chandra Salgado Kent. If you’re interested, please contact us as soon as possible and attach your CV. Email: director(a)cmst.curtin.edu.au <mailto:director@cmst.curtin.edu.au> http://cmst.curtin.edu.au <http://cmst.curtin.edu.au/>

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JNCC MMO and PAM courses, UK - starting 20 June 2016
by Sam Nichols 14 Jun '16

14 Jun '16

Seiche Training is running MMO and PAM courses next week in Devon: *JNCC MMO course - 20-21 June 2016* Okehampton, Devon, UK This two day JNCC-accredited MMO course provides the skills needed to become a Marine Mammal Observer. Highest quality training, both in the classroom and on board a vessel, allows delegates to gain experience with marine mammal identification while at sea. Certificate for offshore work awarded upon successful completion of the course. *PAM Level 1 course - 22-25 June 2016* Okehampton, Devon, UK This three day PAM course provides the skills needed to become an offshore PAM operator. Run by Seiche's highly experienced team with thorough support material, interactive PAMGuard workshops and a boat session, this course will expand delegates' knowledge of acoustic monitoring and provide insight into industry requirements for environmental mitigation. Certificate for offshore work awarded upon successful completion of the course. Please contact us for further information by email (training(a)seiche.com) or look at our website ( *www.seichetraining.com <http://www.seichetraining.com/>* ). Thanks and Regards The Team at Seiche Training

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