April 2018 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication _ Tursiops truncatus resident population_central Chile
by Maria Jose Perez 12 Apr '18

12 Apr '18

Dear colleagues We are pleased to announce a new article related to the resident population of Tursiop truncatus off central Chile titled:" Home sweet home: social dynamics and genetic variation of a longterm resident bottlenose dolphin population off the Chilean coast" Highlights • We examined sociogenetic dynamics of a long-term bottlenose dolphin population. • Residents (RP) had lower genetic diversity than nonresidents (NRP). • We detected strong male-biased dispersal (10 M:1 F) from NRP to RP. • RP likely originated from NRP following a peripatric model. Abstract: Coastal resident and pelagic nonresident bottlenose dolphins, *Tursiops truncatus*, have been described in north-central Chile. Using long-term residence data (over 13 years of photo-identification) and genetic mtDNA information, we analysed the social dynamics through time and the genetic variation of this long-term resident population, and evaluated its sociogenetic interaction with nonresidents. Pelagic nonresident dolphins exhibited a higher level of genetic diversity than coastal residents and a significant difference in genetic structure was detected between them. Based on the difference in haplotype numbers and frequencies between resident and nonresident populations and between resident males and females, we propose a population dynamic model in which the resident population is composed of (1) resident females (founder lineages) and some of their female descendants that were born in and remained in the group, without effective female immigration from the nonresident population, (2) resident male descendants of the founder lineage that were born in and remained in the group and (3) resident males that were incorporated from the pelagic groups. Male-biased migration from nonresident pelagic groups into the resident population likely contributes to genetic variation and therefore may help limit inbreeding in the resident population. Finally, we propose that the peripatric model of population differentiation, where resident groups are sporadically connected to the pelagic population, may explain the origin of this unique resident population of bottlenose dolphins along the Chilean coast. *Pérez-Alvarez MJ*, R A. Vásquez, R Moraga, M Santos-Carvallo, S Kraft, V Sabaj, J Capella, J Gibbons, Y Vilina and E Poulin. Home sweet home: social structure dynamic and genetic variation of a long-term resident bottlenose dolphin population off north-central Chile. Animal Behaviour. 139 (2018) 81e89/ Volume 139 <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/00033472/139/supp/C>, May 2018, Pages 81–89 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2018.03.009 Best regards, MJosé Pérez-Alvarez

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New paper on beluga habitat use and exposure to shipping traffic
by Enrico Pirotta 12 Apr '18

12 Apr '18

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce that the following paper is now available online: Enrico Pirotta, Leslie New and Marianne Marcoux (2018). Modelling beluga habitat use and baseline exposure to shipping traffic to design effective protection against prospective industrialization in the Canadian Arctic. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. Abstract: 1. Global warming is predicted to reduce sea ice and thereby grant access to new shipping routes in the Arctic, leading to the expansion of human exploitation of natural resources in this region. The accompanying rise in boat numbers could impact the local populations of marine mammals by increasing collision rates and behavioural disturbance. It is therefore important to quantify the baseline exposure to current levels of shipping traffic and to understand how wildlife's important habitat overlaps with shipping lanes, in order to support appropriate spatial planning and management. 2. In this study, telemetry tracks from nine belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) tagged in Western Hudson Bay, which is home to the world's largest summer aggregation of this species, were used to estimate the habitat use of the animals and to map any overlap with current shipping activities. 3. Following a use–availability design, with spatially adaptive smooths fitted using generalized estimating equations, beluga habitat use was quantified, confirming that they aggregate in coastal areas in association with river estuaries. The baseline exposure is low, and is concentrated around major harbours in the region. 4. Rising levels of traffic will increase anthropogenic pressure on Western Hudson Bay belugas. The approach presented here informs the design of effective spatial protection measures to minimize any potential consequence on the population. A read-only version of the paper can be accessed from here: https://rdcu.be/Lk0W https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__em.rdcu.be_wf_click-3Fu… A PDF copy of the paper can be downloaded from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/aqc.2892 Please do not hesitate to contact me for any question regarding our work. Best Regards, Enrico Pirotta

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New publication on manatee papillomaviruses
by Dr. Antonio Mignucci 11 Apr '18

11 Apr '18

Our co-authors and I are pleased to share our recently published article: Zahin M, Dean WL, Ghim S, Joh J, Gray RD, Gray RD, Khanal S, Bossart GD, Mignucci-Giannoni AA, Rouchka EC, Jenson AB, Trent JO, Chaires JB, Chariker JH. 2018. Identification of G-quadruplexes forming sequences in three manatee papillomaviruses. PLoS ONE 13(4): e0195625. This article can be found at online at http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0195625 <http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0195625> or by contacting me at the email address below. ABSTRACT—The Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirotris) is a threatened aquatic mammal in United States coastal waters. Over the past decade, the appearance of papillomavirus induced lesions and viral papillomatosis in manatees has been a concern for those involved in the management and rehabilitation of this species. To date, three manatee papillomaviruses (TmPVs) have been identified in Florida manatees, one forming cutaneous lesions (TmPV1) and two forming genital lesions (TmPV3 and TmPV4). We identified DNA sequences with the potential to form G-quadruplex structures (G4) across the three genomes. G4 were located on both DNA strands and across coding and non-coding regions on all TmPVs, offering multiple targets for viral control. Although G4 have been identified in several viral genomes, including human PVs, most research has focused on canonical structures comprised of three Gtetrads. In contrast, the vast majority of sequences we identified would allow the formation of non-canonical structures with only two G-tetrads. Our biophysical analysis confirmed the formation of G4 with parallel topology in three such sequences from the E2 region. Two of the structures appear comprised of multiple stacked two G-tetrad structures, perhaps serving to increase structural stability. Computational analysis demonstrated enrichment of G4 sequences on all TmPVs on the reverse strand in the E2/E4 region and on both strands in the L2 region. Several G4 sequences occurred at similar regional locations on all PVs, most notably on the reverse strand in the E2 region. In other cases, G4 were identified at similar regional locations only on PVs forming genital lesions. On all TmPVs, G4 sequences were located in the non-coding region near putative E2 binding sites. Together, these findings suggest that G4 are possible regulatory elements in TmPVs. Best regards, Antonio A. Mignucci-Giannoni, PhD <http://manatipr.org/>Director Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico <http://manatipr.org/> <http://manatipr.org/>mignucci(a)manatipr.org <mailto:mignucci@manatipr.org>

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Fwd: New article - Breathing synchrony in coastal dolphins.
by Pame Soledad Actis 11 Apr '18

11 Apr '18

### ### Dear MARMAM colleagues, My co-authors and I would like to share the our recent article (in early view) in Marine Mammal Science: *Actis P.S., Danilewicz D., Cremer M. & Bortolotto G.A. 2018. Breathing synchrony in franciscana (**Pontoporia blainvillei**) and Guiana dolphins (**Sotalia guianensis**) in Southern Brazil.** Marine Mammal Science**. DOI: 10.1111/mms.12480.* Abstract: Synchronous breathing may be a useful proxy for studying other, and perhaps more complex, aspects of cetacean behavior. Here we describe a study conducted in Babitonga Bay, southern Brazil, where we investigated the synchrony of breathing in two small populations of franciscana (*Pontoporia blainvillei*) and Guiana dolphins (*Sotalia guianensis*). The bay is affected by different sources of anthropogenic disturbances, such as boat activity and point-source pollution. We assumed breathing synchrony to be the inverse of the time between breathing surfacing displays of dolphins within a swimming pair, which we refer to as lag. The relationship between lag and anthropogenic and animal-related variables was evaluated with generalized additive models. For franciscana dolphins, breathing synchrony was only positively related to the proximity between animals. Breathing synchrony in Guiana dolphins was positively related to both the proximity between animals and to group size, and varied significantly depending on the research boat used. Proximal characteristics (i.e., of individuals or of the group) of these dolphin species seem to be more related to the synchronization in breathing than are the environmental variables assessed here. Results presented expand the current knowledge of these two dolphin species and provide general insights into the breathing synchrony for cetaceans. The early view article can be accessed here: https://onlinelibrary.wi ley.com/doi/full/10.1111/mms.12480 Alternatively, PDF requests may be made by emailing actispamela(a)gmail.com <actispamela(a)gmail.com>. All the best, Pamela S. Actis ### ### -- *Pamela Soledad Actis *

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Fall 2018 IMMS Research Internship
by Jessica Post 11 Apr '18

11 Apr '18

The IMMS Research Internship Program is designed as a way for students interested in a career in marine science to gain valuable research experience in a real-world setting. Interns may participate in projects involving bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and diamondback terrapins. As an intern, you will be trained in all aspects of dolphin photo-ID research as well as any other current research projects at IMMS. Interns will also participate in other operations at IMMS including stranding response, education, and animal care. Our goal is to give interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience in marine science research. Principle Duties and Requirements Interns must: · Commit to a minimum of 12 weeks. The internship can be extended depending on work performance · Be available to work Mon-Fri and must be available for all boat trips. Some field days may fall on the weekends. · Have a strong sense of responsibility, work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to admit mistakes. · Produce high quality research efforts and exhibit strong interpersonal skills · Principle Duties include: data entry, learning all research protocols, cropping and sorting photo-ID fin images, learning to use photo-ID programs such as Darwin (fin matching software) and FinBase (Microsoft Access), boat based field research (21' and 31' boats), and learn how to use ArcGIS · Secondary Duties include: assisting animal care staff, attending marine mammal necropsies, responding to marine mammal and sea turtle strandings, and assisting with educational tours · Field Days: Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water and on shore in sometimes extreme seasonal conditions. Seasonal temperatures range from over 100 °F in summer to 30 °F in winter. Field days typically exceed eight hours and occur at least two or three times a week. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must be 18 or older and must have a genuine interest in marine research. Applicants should be actively pursuing a college degree or be a recent graduate in oceanography, marine science/biology, biology, or a related field. Previous research experience in any capacity is a plus. Applicants must be able and willing to fulfill all duties outlined for this internship program. This is an unpaid position and interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, IMMS staff will be able to assist interns by suggesting suitable housing options and locations. The deadline to apply for the fall session (Aug 6-Oct 26, 2018 or Sept 24-Dec 4, 2018) is June 1, 2018. For application and full details on how to apply please visit our website at https://www.imms.org/internship.php Jessica Post Jessica Post Research Assistant Research Intern Coordinator The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies 10801 Dolphin Lane Gulfport, MS 39503

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Humpback whales in Ecuador Volunteer and Workshop opportunity
by Ana Eguiguren 11 Apr '18

11 Apr '18

*Volunteer program with Proyecto CETACEA on humpback whales * Hi All, Proyecto CETACEA, in association with Universidad San Francisco de Quito (Ecuador) is dedicated to the research and conservation of humpback whales that visit the northern coasts off Ecuador, since 2006. Between June and September, we study the demography and bioacoustics of humpback whales so that we can better understand their population dynamics and behaviour and inform conservation actions in the region. As we do every year, we offer volunteering opportunities for people interested in assisting in fieldwork and learn about cetacean research. Our volunteer program includes the following benefits: · Participate in approximately 4 field trips lasting between 3-5 hrs per week · Assist in behavioural, social, and photo-id data collection · Assist in song recording · Participate and contribute to existing environmental education projects in the community Proyecto CETACEA is funded primarily through volunteer contributions. We ask for a weekly contribution of 290 to covers the cost of transportation from Quito to the field site, fieldtrips (gas and vessel captain), stay at Hostería El Acantilado, food, and a one-time only 200 contribution to cover project administration. If you are interested, please contact Dr. Judith Denkinger jdenkinger(a)usfq.edu.ec for more information. Please attach a short interest letter, CV, and potential assistance dates by May 10, 2018. *Research workshop on humpback whales with Proyecto CETACEA* As a part of our research project, we also offer training opportunity for those who wish to gain more experience in cetacean research methods. Two one-week training sessions will take place in June. During this time, trainees will assist in up to 4 field trips, assist in data collection, song recording, and data analysis using specific software for photo-id (I3s), bioacoustics (Raven Pro), and basic statistics and spatial analysis (R). Tentative dates: Workshop 1: June 16- June 22 Workshop 2: June 23 – June 29 Cost: 720 USD –includes the cost of transportation from Quito to the field site, fieldtrips (gas and vessel captain), stay at Hostería El Acantilado, food, project administration, and specific training. If interested, please contact aeguigurenb(a)usfq.edu.ec and ecujavier10(a)gmail.com with a short interest letter, CV, and attendance dates by May 10, 2018. Thanks for your time! best, Ana Eguiguren

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Seal Rescue Ireland: Animal Care and Education Internship
by Media Coordinator 11 Apr '18

11 Apr '18

Seal Rescue Ireland: Animal Care and Education Internship Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) is a very busy marine animal rescue and rehabilitation facility located in Courtown, Co. Wexford. It is the only seal rehabilitation facility in the Republic of Ireland and is responds to strandings nationwide. Most distressed seal calls are for Grey and Common Seal pups which have become injured, orphaned or sick. In addition, SRI promotes public engagement in sustainability and ocean conservation through active education, outreach and research activities. The facility is accepting applicants for positions in their challenging and exciting internship program for start dates in Summer, Autumn and Winter. This is a full-time position for a minimum of 12 weeks, however priority will be given to candidates who can stay longer. *Reports to: *Animal Care Manager *Job Summary:* The position provides the intern with hands on rescue and rehabilitation experience with stranded marine mammals. The candidate is responsible for assisting in the daily care and maintenance of rehabilitation animals as well as providing educational tours to the public. Interns will spend half their time in the hospital and the other half of their time assisting with education, fundraising and clerical tasks. The variation of responsibilities allows interns a broad understanding of what it takes to operate a wildlife hospital and charity organization. Each intern will be responsible for independently planning one fundraiser project. Interns that excel may be offered additional levels of responsibility as specialized program coordinators to develop further skill sets. Promoted interns who can commit to longer terms can potentially lead to compensation of room and board. *Requirements: *For consideration, applicants must have a background or interest in areas of study such as Pre-Vet, Biology, Zoology, Marine Biology or other animal related field. Applicants must have the ability to understand and follow written and oral instruction, and have effective communication skills. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, and must be physically fit and able to lift 25 kg. Applicants must possess the ability to adapt to a high paced, ever-changing work environment, possess a good work ethic and positive attitude. They must also be available to work long hours, nights, weekends and holidays. Previous animal care and handling experience as well as public speaking skills are preferred, however interns will be trained to develop skills in these areas. *Duties Include:* ● Daily animal diet preparations and routine cleaning of enclosures and work areas. ● Assist with rescue and release of stranded animals. ● Take shifts overseeing the stranding hotline and coordinating seal rescue and transport. ● Assist in the care and maintenance of the Centre’s rehabilitation animals (feeding, restraining, medical treatment, daily care). ● Help ensure that the clinical areas are stocked, hygienic and prepared to receive animals. ● Maintain and update medical records. ● Provide assistance to management and rehabilitation staff as needed. ● Assist with fundraisers and educational events. ● Assist with clerical duties and office work as needed (you will gain experience in all aspects of how a rehabilitation centre operates) ● Participate in educational talks and tours. ● Performs other duties relating to the Centre’s goals and mission statement as required. *This is an unpaid position. Intern housing is available for 85 Euro/week for a first come first serve basis (including food). Interns are responsible for all travel expenses.* *Send a resume and cover letter and available dates to:* Attention: Animal Care and Education Internship info(a)sealrescueireland.org <sealrescueireland(a)gmail.com> Telephone: 087 461 3798 www.sealrescueireland.org Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sealrescueireland

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Join the Blue World Institute and discover wild bottlenose dolphins!
by tihana vučur 10 Apr '18

10 Apr '18

Join the Blue World Institute and discover wild bottlenose dolphins! Blue World Institute (BWI) is an NGO set up with the intention to carry out scientific research and conservation of the marine environment as well as educational activities, with the aim to secure the future of the Adriatic Sea. One of the interests of the BWI is monitoring and conservation of wild bottlenose dolphins. The monitoring program in the North Adriatic Sea is running for more than 30 years. Each year during the summer season BWI accepts eco-volunteers to help with the data collection on this endangered species. By joining BWI you get to observe the local population of wild bottlenose dolphins around the Cres-Lošinj archipelago. As an eco-volunteer you will discover their social connections, how big their home ranges are. You will be able to hear the sounds, which they produce while preforming different behaviors. You will find out who are the mothers, which are the dominant males and a lot more. This year the program starts from 7th May and lasts until 21st September. You can pick one of 10 stages, and join BWI for 2 weeks. It is important that you know English, that you are above 18 years old and able to tolerate hot weather and boat trips for several hours. If you are curious about this eco-volunteering position, please visit BWI web page https://www.blue-world.org/get-involved/eco-volunteer/ or send an e-mail on tihana.vucur(a)blue-world.org. Kind regards, Tihana Vučur Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation Kastel 24 Veli Lošinj Croatia *tihana.vucur(a)blue-world.org <tihana.vucur(a)blue-world.org>* mob. *+385 91 211 2226* www.blue-world.o <http://www.blue-world.org/>

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Position Announcement for Manatee Program Associate
by Debbie Wingfield 10 Apr '18

10 Apr '18

The County of Volusia Environmental Management Division is seeking a candidate for the position of Manatee Program Associate. This is a 40hr/week contract position, located in DeLand, FL. Overview: The Manatee Protection Program Associate conducts environmental education with a focus on conservation of the Florida manatee, manatee habitat, and marine mammals in general. The Associate is responsible for teaching environmental education programs and for providing education and outreach activities at events. The Associate is responsible for coordinating the Manatee Watch, and Monofilament Line Recycling programs. They are also a member of the county’s Marine Mammal Stranding team and, as scheduled, will be on-call to respond to manatee and cetacean strandings. The Associate must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays. Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field, or a Veterinary Technology/Technician degree. Previous experience with manatees, marine mammals, marine mammal strandings, or other related work is essential. Must possess a valid Florida Driver’s License. The applicant must have a working knowledge of digital cameras, good writing skills, computer skills, and the ability to manage databases. Boat operating experience and a diving certification are preferred. For more information please contact Debbie Wingfield (VCMPP Manger). dwingfield(a)volusia.org

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Volunteer required: Whale Heritage Sites Programme Assistant
by Dylan Walker 10 Apr '18

10 Apr '18

Dear Marmamers, We would like to request applications for the role of Whale Heritage Sites Programme Assistant (volunteer internship); 30 April – 29 June 2018. *Overview* An initiative of the World Cetacean Alliance, Whale Heritage Sites (WHS) are aimed at increasing the protection and conservation of cetaceans and their habitats while contributing to sustainable livelihoods, the arts, science and education. Whale Heritage Site status is granted to those places around the world where cetaceans are celebrated through art, education, research and cultural events; where sustainable practices and livelihoods are continually improved to ensure the health of cetacean habitats and the long-term economic health of human communities; and where respectful coexistence with cetaceans is supported through law, policy and cooperation. The person in this role will report directly to the CEO, receive in-situ training, and work closely with colleagues at WCA Headquarters. The internship will begin with a one week certified Responsible Whale Watching Guides training course, which will provide training on responsible cetacean tourism and marine education, both of which are key elements of the Whale Heritage Sites initiative. The role is available from 30 April – 29 June 2018, and will take place at WCA Headquarters, Brighton, United Kingdom. The WCA is unable to cover personal expenses. *Responsibilities* 1. Build relationships, engage community stakeholders working to meet the WHS criteria, and represent the WHS Programme. 2. Encourage and support collaborations between prospective WHS stakeholders and experts and advisors from within and outside the World Cetacean Alliance. 3. Develop and provide resources to assist stakeholders in applicant sites. 4. Further develop the charter of shortlisted sites. 5. Communicate progress across the WHS network through media and social media. 6. Work alongside WCA staff to set strategy and guide the programme. 7. Liaise with WCA staff to ensure coordinated planning, collaborative work efforts, integrated programming and shared success towards agreed goals. *Knowledge* 1. Experience and knowledge of cetaceans and marine conservation issues. 2. Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team to advance the mission. 3. Highly organized and detail-oriented with a strong ability to prioritize and deliver against responsibilities and duties. 4. Ability to thrive in a multi-tasking, high energy environment. 5. Ability to excite and engage stakeholders through meetings and personal outreach. *Qualifications* 1. Degree or higher qualification in environmental / biological / educational subject. 2. Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to multitask. 3. A proven track record of communicating with different audiences. TO APPLY: Please send your C.V. and a cover letter to: dylan(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org Applications must be sent in electronic form no later than 20 April 2018. For more information go to http://whaleheritagesites.org/ Dylan Walker Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance * *T *+44 (0)1273 355011 <+44%201273%20355011>* M *+44 (0)7900 471490 <+44%207900%20471490>* S *dylan.wca *E *dylan(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org* W *worldcetaceanalliance.org *W2 *whaleheritagesites.org *W3 *worldwhaleconference.org <http://www.worldwhaleconference.org> *A *Studio 3, Lower Promenade, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK *The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 90 non-profit organisations, whale and dolphin watching tour operators and individuals in 40 countries worldwide working collaboratively to protect cetaceans and their habitats. World Cetacean Alliance, the Secretariat to the Partnership, is a UK registered Charity no. 1160484. * *The content of this e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you have received this communication in error, be aware that forwarding it, copying it, or in any way disclosing its content to any other person, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the author by replying to this e-mail immediately.* *Please consider the environment before printing this email or it's attachments. *

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