September 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

PSO/MMO Training in Boston, MA September 24-25
by abostwick 06 Sep '16

06 Sep '16

There are a few spots available in the Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) training on September 24-25 in Boston Massachusetts. 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. Successful completion of this course provides professional Protected Species Observer Certification. This class will be visiting the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the top whale-watching destinations in the world. Lunch is provided and included in the course fee (college/recent graduate/military discounts available), along with various identification guides and regulatory documents (which will be yours to keep), the whale-watching vessel trip, and advice on applying to PSO positions. MPSC is also holding PSO training in Galveston, TX this November. For more information, please contact Angela at ABostwick(a)PSOCertifications.com <mailto:ABostwick@PSOCertifications.com> , by phone at 832-523-2402, or visit the website at 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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New publication on southern fur seals
by Silvina Botta 06 Sep '16

06 Sep '16

Dear MARMAM-readers, We are pleased to inform you that our paper ‘Ontogenetic and gender-related variation in the isotopic niche within and between three species of fur seals (genus Arctocephalus) by T.L. Albernaz, E.R, Secchi, L.R. Oliveira & S. Botta is now available online at Hydrobiologia DOI 10.1007/s10750-016-2950-0 http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10750-016- 2950-0?wt_mc=Internal.Event.1.SEM.ArticleAuthorOnlineFirst <http://jeb.biologists.org/content/early/2016/05/25/jeb.133116> Abstract: We used an isotopic approach to investigate the intra- and interspecific differences in spatial and trophic ecology of three species of the fur seal genus *Arctocephalus* that inhabit distinct climatic zones: subtropical (*A. australis *n=22), subantarctic (*A. tropicalis *n=8) and polar (*A. gazella *n=10). We obtained sequential *δ*13C and *δ*15N values in dentine from canine teeth of specimens found along the southern Brazilian coast. We calculated isotopic niches where axes where used as a surrogate for trophic (*δ*15N) and spatial (*δ*13C) dimensions of the ecological niche. Further, we adjusted generalized additive mixed models to chronological data of *δ*13C and *δ*15N to investigate the ontogenetic variation of the isotopic niche. The three species showed significant segregation both in spatial and the trophic dimensions as a result of foraging at different latitudes. Within *A. australis, *males occupied higher trophic positions than females. Furthermore, some isotopic niche overlap was found between sexes in *A. tropicalis* and *A. gazella,* though sample sizes preclude conclusive interpretation. Marked ontogenetic variation in the isotopic niche, especially in the early years, was observed in all species. Isotopic niche suggest that intra and interspecific competition in these otariids is minimized by different degree of spatial and trophic segregation. For any inquiries or requests please contact me at: silbotta(a)gmail.com Kind regards, Silvina Botta Labotatório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha Instituto de Oceanografia Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG Brasil

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The Gulf of Ambracia’s Common Bottlenose Dolphins: A Highly Dense and yet Threatened Population
by Joan Gonzalvo 06 Sep '16

06 Sep '16

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share with you the release of the following paper, which will be one of the chapters for the book “Mediterranean Marine Mammal Ecology and Conservation”, to be published at Advances in Marine Biology Volume 75. Editors: Giuseppe Notarbartolo di Sciara, Michela Podestà, Barbara E. Curry. It is now available on-line at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0065288116300062 <http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0065288116300062> Gonzalvo, J., Lauriano, G., Hammond, P.S., Viaud-Martinez, K.A., Fossi, M.C., Natoli, A., Marsili, L., 2016. The Gulf of Ambracia’s Common Bottlenose Dolphins, Tursiops truncatus: A Highly Dense and yet Threatened Population. In Advances in Marine Biology Volume 75; Mediterranean Marine Mammal Ecology and Conservation. doi:10.1016/bs.amb.2016.07.002 Abstract The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is the only cetacean present in the semiclosed waters of the Gulf of Ambracia, Western Greece. This increasingly degraded coastal ecosystem hosts one of the highest observed densities in the Mediterranean Sea for this species. Photo-identification data and tissue samples collected through skin-swabbing and remote biopsy sampling techniques during boat-based surveys conducted between 2006 and 2015 in the Gulf, were used to examine bottlenose dolphin abundance, population trends, site fidelity, genetic differentiation and toxicological status. Bottlenose dolphins showed high levels of year-round site fidelity throughout the 10-year study period. Dolphin population estimates mostly fell between 130 and 170 with CVs averaging about 10%; a trend in population size over the 10 years was a decline of 1.6% per year (but this was not significant). Genetic differentiation between the bottlenose dolphins of the Gulf and their conspecifics from neighbouring populations was detected, and low genetic diversity was found among individuals sampled. In addition, pesticides where identified as factors posing a real toxicological problem for local bottlenose dolphins. Therefore, in the Gulf of Ambracia, high dolphin density does not seem to be indicative of favourable conservation status or pristine habitat. A .pdf copy can be requested to joan.gonzalvo(a)gmail.com <mailto:joan.gonzalvo@gmail.com> Best regards, joAn ============================ Joan Gonzalvo, PhD Program Manager - Ionian Dolphin Project TETHYS RESEARCH INSTITUTE Viale G.B. Gadio 2, 20121 Milano, Italy Spanish Mobile: +34 650434808 Greek Mobile: +30 6979428717 Skype: idp_amvrakikos

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Publication on Southern right whale diving behavior and whale watching at Península Valdés
by Maria Belen Argüelles 06 Sep '16

06 Sep '16

My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the following papers: Argüelles, M.B., Fazio, A., Fiorito, C., Pérez-Martínez, D., Coscarella, M. y Bertellotti, M. 2016. Diving behavior of Southern right whales (*Eubalaena australis*) in a maritime traffic area in Patagonia, Argentina. Aquatic Mammals 42(1): 104-108, DOI 10.1578/AM.42.1.2016.104. Full text is available online here: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org Argüelles, M.B., Coscarella, M., Fazio, A., Bertellotti, M, 2016. “Impact of whale-watching on the short-term behavior of Southern right whales (*Eubalaena australis*) in Patagonia, Argentina”. Tourism Management Perspectives 18: 118–124. DOI 10.1016/j.tmp.2016.02.002. Abstract: In the last 30 years, whale watching tours in Patagonia, which are primarily based on viewing pods of Southern right whale, have become increasingly popular. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of whale watching boat trips on the behavior of whales. Data were analyzed by means of a Generalized Linear Model using a long-link function to categorical data. The model that best fitted the data had four selected first-order interactions among factors. Whales showed short-term reactions to boats, changing their behavior in response to the approaching boats. If the boat apporached appropriately (i.e. with the engines off) whales reacted positively by approaching the boat and seeking contact, whereas reacted negatively by moving away from the boat and avoiding contact. The results of this study may have significant implications for whale watching regulations and their enforcement. Full text is available online here: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211973616300125 Please contact me with any inquiries or requests for PDF copy: belenarguelles(a)gmail.com Best regards, María Belén Argüelles -- Lic. María Belén Argüelles Ecofisiología Aplicada al Manejo y Conservación de la Fauna Silvestre Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos (CESIMAR) CCT CENPAT - CONICET Blvd Brown 2915 (9120) Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina Tel: +54 280 4883184 interno: 1603 Fax: +54280 4883543 email: arguelles(a)cenpat-conicet.gob.ar www.cenpat-conicet.gov.ar

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PAM Training - New Orleans, Brazil & UK
by Sam Nichols 06 Sep '16

06 Sep '16

Seiche is pleased to offer its three day PASSIVE ACOUSTIC MONITORING (PAM) TRAINING through September, October and November 2016 in the USA, Brazil and UK. This internationally-respected PAM course provides the skills needed to become an offshore PAM operator. Run by Seiche's 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. A certificate for offshore work will be awarded upon successful completion of course. September 21-23 Devon, UK September 30-October 2 New Orleans, USA November 9-11 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil November 23-25 Devon, UK Course modules include: Sound In Water Marine Mammals Anthropogenic Noise in the Sea Effects of Anthropogenic Noise on Marine Mammals Local Mitigation Guidelines PAM Principles and the Role of the PAM Operator PAM Hardware & Operations PAM Software PAMGuard Workshops Set up and deployment of PAM systems and visual observer stations Troubleshooting Real-time mitigation and reporting Please go to www.seichetraining.com or contact training(a)seiche.com for more details on modules, costs and bookings.

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Article: Experimental Challenge of Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) with a Brucella pinnipedialis Strain from Hooded Seal (Cystophora cristata)
by Ingebjørg Helena Nymo 06 Sep '16

06 Sep '16

Article: Experimental Challenge of Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) with a Brucella pinnipedialis Strain from Hooded Seal (Cystophora cristata) Authors: * Ingebjørg Helena Nymo, * Marit Seppola, * Sascha Al Dahouk, * Kathrine Ryvold Bakkemo, * María Pilar Jiménez de Bagüés, * Jacques Godfroid, * Anett Kristin Larsen Journal: PLoS ONE 11(7): e0159272. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0159272 Available here: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0159272 Abstract: Pathology has not been observed in true seals infected with Brucella pinnipedialis. A lack of intracellular survival and multiplication of B. pinnipedialis in hooded seal (Cystophora cristata) macrophages in vitro indicates a lack of chronic infection in hooded seals. Both epidemiology and bacteriological patterns in the hooded seal point to a transient infection of environmental origin, possibly through the food chain. To analyse the potential role of fish in the transmission of B. pinnipedialis, Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) were injected intraperitoneally with 7.5 x 107bacteria of a hooded seal field isolate. Samples of blood, liver, spleen, muscle, heart, head kidney, female gonads and feces were collected on days 1, 7, 14 and 28 post infection to assess the bacterial load, and to determine the expression of immune genes and the specific antibody response. Challenged fish showed an extended period of bacteremia through day 14 and viable bacteria were observed in all organs sampled, except muscle, until day 28. Neither gross lesions nor mortality were recorded. Anti-Brucella antibodies were detected from day 14 onwards and the expression of hepcidin, cathelicidin, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, and interferon (IFN)-γ genes were significantly increased in spleen at day 1 and 28. Primary mononuclear cells isolated from head kidneys of Atlantic cod were exposed to B. pinnipedialis reference (NCTC 12890) and hooded seal (17a-1) strain. Both bacterial strains invaded mononuclear cells and survived intracellularly without any major reduction in bacterial counts for at least 48 hours. Our study shows that the B. pinnipedialis strain isolated from hooded seal survives in Atlantic cod, and suggests that Atlantic cod could play a role in the transmission of B.pinnipedialis to hooded seals in the wild. Ingebjorg Helena Nymo DVM, PhD Post Doctoral Researcher Research Group of Arctic Infection Biology Department of Arctic and Marine Biology Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics University of Troms? - The Arctic University of Norway Phone: +47 918 38 421 / mail: ingebjorg.h.nymo(a)uit.no<mailto:ingebjorg.h.nymo@uit.no><mailto:ingebjorg.h.nymo@uit.no> https://uit.no/om/enhet/ansatte/person?p_document_id=360200&p_dimension_id=…

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New publication on gas dynamics in California sea lions
by Hodanbosi, Matt 05 Sep '16

05 Sep '16

Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are pleased to announce a modeling paper dealing with gas dynamics in California sea lions: Hodanbosi, M., Sterba-Boatwright, B., Fahlman, A. 2016. Updating a gas dynamics model using estimates for California sea lions (Zalophus californianus). Respiratory Physiology and Neurobiology. 234, 1-8. Abstract: Theoretical models are used to predict how breath-hold diving vertebrates manage O2, CO2, and N2 while underwater. One recent gas dynamics model used available lung and tracheal compliance data from various species. As variation in respiratory compliance significantly affects alveolar compression and pulmonary shunt, the current study objective was to evaluate changes in model output when using species-specific parameters from California sea lions (Zalophus californianus). We explored the effects of lung and dead space compliance on the uptake of N2, O2, and CO2 in various tissues during a series of hypothetical dives. The updated parameters allowed for increased compliance of the lungs and an increased stiffness in the trachea. When comparing updated model output with a model using previous compliance values, there was a large decrease in N2 uptake but little change in O2 and CO2 levels. Therefore, previous models may overestimate N2 tensions and the risk of gas-related disease, such as decompression sickness (DCS), in marine mammals. The full article is available online at http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.resp.2016.08.006 For re-prints, please e-mail Matt Hodanbosi: mhodanbosi(a)islander.tamucc.edu Thanks, Matt --------------------------------------------------------------------- Matthew Hodanbosi Comparative Physiology Lab Department of Life Sciences Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi 6300 Ocean Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78412

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New publication on marine debris found in sperm whales stranded along the North Sea coast in early 2016 (Bianca Unger)
by Unger, Bianca 05 Sep '16

05 Sep '16

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of a new article: Large amounts of marine debris found in sperm whales stranded along the North Sea coast in early 2016 Bianca Unger, Elisa L. Bravo Rebolledo, Rob Deaville, Andrea Gröne, Lonneke L. IJsseldijk, Mardik F. Leopold, Ursula Siebert, Jérôme Spitz, Peter Wohlsein, Helena Herr Abstract: 30 sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) stranded along the coasts of the North Sea between January and February 2016. The gastro-intestinal tracts of 22 of the carcasses were investigated. Marine debris including netting, ropes, foils, packaging material and a part of a car were found in nine of the 22 individuals. Here we provide details about the findings and consequences for the animals. While none of the items was responsible for the death of the animal, the findings demonstrate the high level of exposure to marine debris and associated risks for large predators, such as the sperm whale. The full article is available online at http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.08.027 or email me directly for a PDF copy Bianca.Unger(a)tiho-hannover.de<mailto:Bianca.Unger@tiho-hannover.de> Best, Bianca -- Bianca Unger Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation

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Job opening: “ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative” Project Officer
by Celia LE RAVALLEC 05 Sep '16

05 Sep '16

Dear MARMAM Community, Established under the auspices of the UNEP Convention on Migratory Species (UNEP/CMS), the Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and contiguous Atlantic area (ACCOBAMS) is an Intergovernmental Agreement aimed at achieving and maintaining a favorable conservation status for cetaceans though the implementation of coordinated measures. The ACCOBAMS Secretariat is seeking a Project Officer for the “ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative” (ASI). This is a pilot initiative aimed at establishing an integrated and coordinated monitoring system for cetaceans in the ACCOBAMS area, in coordination with the riparian countries and with their participation. One of the objective of the ASI is to establish a baseline framework to assess cetaceans abundance and distribution at the macroregional level. A synoptic survey will be carried out across the Agreement area combining visual survey methods (aerial- and ship-based surveys) and passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) with the participation of scientists of the whole area. When possible, data will be also collected for all species of species of conservation importance encountered (e.g. reptiles, fish, elasmobranchs…). The project will also provide capacity building and development of harmonized monitoring methodologies, with the view to establish a regional systematic monitoring program of cetaceans species. The overall coordination of the project is provided by the ACCOBAMS Secretariat, according to the mandate given by the Parties to ACCOBAMS, and under the guidance of a Steering Committee. A Scientific Coordinator will be involved in the project for specific tasks/actions related to the scientific aspects of the project. The Project Officer will ensure the overall coordination of the “ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative” project. He/she will provide operational management of the project, under the general authority of the ACCOBAMS Executive Secretary and the supervision of the ACCOBAMS Project and Fundraising Officer. He/she will also liaise with the Scientific Coordinator. This is a full-time position based in the Principality of Monaco, at the ACCOBAMS Permanent Secretariat. The ASI Project Officer position is a fixed-term contract corresponding to the duration of the project (42 months), starting as soon as possible. Remuneration will be dependent on the candidate’s experience. Minimum monthly take-home salary (before-tax payment) will be 2,400.00 Euros . The contract will cover basic national health insurance, pension and unemployment insurance. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The ASI Project Officer will be responsible for the management and the overall coordination of all operational matters of the project including (but not limited to) the following: Project development - Finalize the project documents based on the requirements of the funding partners, in liaison with the Project Steering Committee and the Scientific Coordinator; - Liaise with the national representatives to further define their contribution to the project. Project management and delivery - Ensure timely implementation/coordination of the project activities through systematic planning, monitoring and evaluation; - Liaise with the national representatives during all the project duration; - Prepare and monitor the implementation of contracts with experts/consultants and Memoranda with national partners; - Coordinate the organization and follow up of meetings and workshops; - Contribute to the liaison of the ACCOBAMS Secretariat with the different ACCOBAMS Bodies (Bureau of Parties, Scientific Committee) for the issues related to the project; - Contribute to the liaison of the ACCOBAMS Secretariat with the Project Steering Committee and the Project Scientific Coordinator; - Ensure the technical and financial reporting to funding partners; - Liaise with the funding partners to monitor the progress in the implementation of the project - Write communication material required by the project (outreach materials, website content); - Maintain an adequate paper and electronic filing system. ACCOBAMS regular activity - Attend, as representative of the ACCOBAMS Secretariat, national and international events (meetings, workshops, field surveys, etc.) and promote the interests of the Agreement in other fora, in relation to the project; - Contribute in servicing the ACCOBAMS institutional meetings; - Contribute to team and staff meetings. Other - Undertake other duties as required by the Executive Secretary in relation to the project. REQUIRED PROFILE AND QUALIFICATION All candidates for this position must provide evidence of the following: Education, knowledge and experience - Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental studies, biology or related field with specialization. A background in marine environment would be an advantage; - At least five years or relevant experience in management/development/monitoring of multi-partner conservation projects (delivery, budgeting, reporting, writing publications, organizing meetings and workshops) and environmental policy coordination and/or related field, including at least two years at the international level; - Previous experience in the ACCOBAMS area is desirable. Skills and competencies - Excellent project management skills; - Diplomatic skills; - Interest in nature conservation; - Ability to work independently, innovatively and collaboratively with colleagues in order to achieve organizational goals; - Ability to plan and prioritize workloads and capability of meeting deadlines; - Persistence when problems or challenges appear; - Excellent interpersonal skills, especially within multicultural/multilingual settings; - Ability to interact with tact and diplomacy; - Willingness to undertake travel abroad. Languages - Excellent written and oral communication skills in both English and French. Knowledge of other languages of the ACCOBAMS area is an asset. HOW TO APPLY Applicants are invited to submit the following items to prove their qualification to respond to the objectives of this position: - A cover letter - A two-page supporting document in which the applicant should answer the following questions: o What led you to apply for this position? o Why would you like to work for ACCOBAMS and its geographical area? o What are the two most important technical abilities that you would bring to the project? o What is the single most important technical ability that you would need in order to manage the project successfully? o What are the two most important personal characteristics that would help you to succeed in this job? - A CV - List of 3 referees. Applications should be submitted electronically, in English, with all the material in a single email, to Mrs. Florence DESCROIX-COMANDUCCI, ACCOBAMS Executive Secretary (fcdescroix(a)accobams.net<mailto:fcdescroix@accobams.net>). The deadline is 2 October 2016. A shortlist of qualified candidates will be formally invited for interview around mid-October 2016. Interviews will be conducted via Skype. For further information please go to: www.accobams.org<http://www.accobams.org> Thanks! Celia Celia LE RAVALLEC Project Officer ACCOBAMS Secretariat Jardin de l’UNESCO Terrasses de Fontvieille MC-98000 Monaco Tel : +377 9898 4074

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Risk Assessment of Environmental Noise Impacts
by Frank Thomsen 04 Sep '16

04 Sep '16

Dear Colleagues Sorry for cross postings DHI (dhigroup.com) is running a course in end of September on Risk Assessment of Environmental Noise Impacts, which is available for booking. The impacts of underwater noise on marine mammals have become an increasingly important issue for marine industries such as dredging, shipping, wind farm operations and oil and gas exploration and production. Noise assessments, investigating impacts on marine mammals are required for many marine activities with Regulators being increasingly aware of the issues as well. DHI has been on the forefront in researching noise impacts on whales dolphins, porpoises and other marine life, developing frameworks for assessing them and for providing real solutions that can be used as tools in EIAs. By combining ocean acoustics and marine mammal science, DHI developed its new risk based approach to noise assessment. Join us for a course to learn more. The course will cover the latest guidance on assessing impacts on marine mammals. We will also provide interpretation of the outputs of noise modelling and the subsequent biological impact and risk assessments on marine mammals. · 21st - 22nd of September in San Diego, CA - for further info and registration go to https://www.theacademybydhi.com/course-sessions/modelling-of-underwater-aco…) You can get an appetizer using this link https://www.theacademybydhi.com/research-and-publications/tech-talk/underwa…. Best regards, Frank Thomsen Ph.D. Senior Scientist , Group Executive - Marine Regulators and Authorities DHI Group Sales, Ecology and Environment [DHI logo] DHI Agern Allé 5 DK-2970 Hørsholm Denmark Tel: +45 4516 9200 Direct: +45 4516 9446 Mobile: +45 29404355 frth(a)dhigroup.com<mailto:frth@dhigroup.com> www.dhigroup.com<http://www.dhigroup.com/> The expert in WATER ENVIRONMENTS This message contains information which may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the intended recipient (or authorised to receive this message for the intended recipient), you may not use, copy, disseminate or disclose any information contained in it thereof. If you have received this communication in error, please advise the sender appropriately by reply e-mail, and then delete it. Thank you very much.

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