April 2019 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: Behavioural and pathological insights into a case of active cannibalism by a grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) on Helgoland, Germany.
by van Neer, Abbo 03 Apr '19

03 Apr '19

Dear MARMAM community, on behalf of all authors, I would like to announce the publication of our new paper describing a case of active cannibalism by a grey seal including details on the behaviour as well as pathology. van Neer, A., Gross, S., Kesselring, T., Wohlsein, P., Leitzen, E., & Siebert, U. (2019) Behavioural and pathological insights into a case of active cannibalism by a grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) on Helgoland, Germany. Journal of Sea Research, 148–149, 12–16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seares.2019.03.004 Abstract: First reports on cases of grey seal predation on other marine mammals from different parts of Europe have been published in recent years, but few cases provide sufficient detail. Here we report a case of active cannibalism by a grey seal, which has been witnessed and recorded in detail on the German island of Helgoland, describing particular behavioural aspects and lesions. In March 2018, a subadult male grey seal was observed catching, killing and feeding extensively from a juvenile grey seal. The carcass showed severe cutaneous lacerations, starting in the head region and following around the trunk in a circular pattern. These results are discussed with regard to the previously reported cases to form a solid knowledge base for retrospective and future assessments of carcasses potentially subjected to grey seal predation. The correct assignment of predated seals is important to determine the potential influence this behaviour may have on seal populations. As this publication is open access, just follow the link below for a copy: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1385110118303368 If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with us. All the best on behalf of all authors Abbo van Neer ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Abbo van Neer University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW) Werftstr. 6 25761 Büsum Germany ☏ +49 5 11 - 8 56 - 81 62 Fax: +49 5 11 - 8 56 - 81 81 abbo.van.neer(a)tiho-hannover.de<mailto:abbo.van.neer@tiho-hannover.de> https://www.tiho-hannover.de/itaw SAVE FORESTS - Please do not print this e-mail unless absolutely necessary

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Seiche Environmental: Marine Environmental Consultant (Marine Mammals and Acoustics) Vacancy (Corrected closing date)
by Nick Robinson 03 Apr '19

03 Apr '19

In order to support Seiche Environmental Limited’s growth strategy and the delivery of expanding portfolio of services, an opportunity has become available for the position of Marine Environmental Consultant (Marine Mammals and Acoustics). The Marine Environmental Consultant will support the Marine Mammal Consultant to deliver desk-based projects and to develop a comprehensive client-base and promotion of Seiche’s environmental services The successful candidate will need to deliver desk-based work including Marine Mammal Impact Assessments, Mitigation Plans and Marine Mammal Risk Assessments. They will be expected to liaise with governmental bodies and different stakeholders in offshore developments and provide expertise on legislation and industry needs. They will support, develop and deliver marine mammal mitigation and observer training courses. The ability to provide advice to clients on marine mammal legislation and mitigation both nationally and internationally and produce and provide high quality desk-based works including peer-reviewing papers is essential. Previous relevant marine oil and gas or renewable energy industry experience is advantageous. This is an office-based position in Seiche’s Norwich office. Travel between the various company sites is to be expected and there may be the requirement to undertake occasional travel around the world. Also, attend conferences, meetings and promote Seiche’s environmental services will be available. As well as a competitive salary, that reflects experience and qualifications these roles will also offer annual holidays of 25 working days, plus UK Bank Holidays and a company pension contribution of 5% of gross salary. If you believe you have the experience and skills for this role, please e-mail your CV and covering letter to k.holder(a)seiche.com<mailto:k.holder@seiche.com>. Closing date: Noon on Sunday, 7th April, 2019. Nick Robinson Business Manager Seiche Environmental Ltd Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom T: +44(0)1409 404050 M: +44(0)7590 844363 Registered in England & Wales No. 10612696, Registered Office: The Custom House, The Strand, Barnstaple, Devon The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential, and solely intended for the use of the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents.

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Publication: glider based research on the west coast of Canada
by burnhamr＠uvic.ca 02 Apr '19

02 Apr '19

My co-authors and I are happy to share our new publication: Burnham, R.E., Duffus, D.A., Mouy, X. 2019. The presence of large whale species in Clayoquot Sound and its offshore waters. Continental Shelf Research. 177: 15-23 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.csr.2019.03.004 Abstract: Large whale populations in the northeast Pacific were severely reduced by whaling, with many showing limited recovery. Their use of offshore waters and limited knowledge of life histories has hindered studies focused on estimating population numbers and mapping habitat use. Acoustic recordings, using vocalizations as a marker of whale presence, may be the first step in re-establishing baseline knowledge of species presence over time and space. Recordings from both stationary and mobile platforms, covering waters from coastal to shelf-break and offshore waters, show spatial segregation in the dominant species recorded. Inshore recordings are dominated by more coastally-focused species, whereas fin (Balaenoptera physalus) blue (Balaenoptera musculus) and sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) are primarily heard in the shelf-break zones. Calls tentatively described for sei whales (Balaenoptera borealis) are also noted. Calls matching those previously described to these species as breeding and foraging calls were found. Acoustic monitoring surveys like this study are needed to better map presence and habitat use of these rare and endangered species, ultimately leading to the identification and protection of areas important to population recovery. The publication is available here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278434318304412?via%3Di… or I am happy to provide a PDF Thanks Rianna Burnham, PhD

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Gray whale paper announcement
by burnhamr＠uvic.ca 02 Apr '19

02 Apr '19

My co-author and I are pleased to present our latest paper that synthesizes our ecological findings from our gray whale study over the last 20 years. Burnham, R. and Duffus, D. 2018. Patterns of predator-prey dynamics between gran whales (Eschrichtius robustus) and mysid species in Clayoguot Sound. J. Cetacean Res. Manage. 19: 95-103. Abstract The patterns of foraging intensity of gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) over a 17-year period (19972013) in Clayoquot Sound, Vancouver Island are examined. In this area, epibenthic mysid species are gray whales primary prey. The analysis indicates a top-down modification on habitat quality by this apex predator. Intense foraging in one or two summer season contributes to reduced prey resources available in the following summer. Years of heavy predation pressure were followed by at least one year of reduced foraging, probably allowing a reprieve in which the mysids could repopulate. Over the time span several patterns were noted including: boom-bust cycles; extended periods of reduced foraging; an overall declining trend of foraging whales using Clayoquot Sound, followed by a significant prey recovery in 2010. Life history patterns of mysids are discussed in the context of their ability to recover from predation, and how this recovery during a reprieve may buffer the intensity of foraging from the previous year. The continuing ability of mysids to recover from repeated and persistent removal will determine the use of Clayoquot Sound as a gray whale foraging area in the future. The link to the paper is: https://archive.iwc.int/?r=7931 Or you can email me for copy of the PDF Thanks Rianna Burnham, PhD

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BDRI Marine mammal internship Summer 2019
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 02 Apr '19

02 Apr '19

On behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) <http://www.thebdri.com/>, I am pleased to announce that we are currently accepting new applications for our Summer-Fall Internship Program. BACKGROUND - The mission of the BDRI since 2005 has been to study marine biodiversity and to educate students, decision-makers, and the public on scientific research and how to contribute to marine conservation. BDRI scientists conduct research across a wide range of subject areas such as the link between marine predators (cetaceans, otters, and marine birds) and their environment, cetacean society and population dynamics, the interaction between marine megafauna and human activities, and cetacean behaviour and acoustic communication. The BDRI performs systematic surveys to monitor charismatic marine mega-fauna (marine mammals and marine birds) in one of the most productive oceanic regions in the world (Galician waters, NW Spain), as it is a place with a great array of research questions to be answered regarding these animals and their environment. Surveys are carried out both from the coast and on-board the BDRI's research vessels in coastal and pelagic waters. BDRI’s reputation for success rests solidly on its ability to carry out scientific studies published in prestigious scientific journals, international conferences, and workshops. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION- An internship period at the BDRI offers an excellent opportunity for interested and motivated people to obtain field and laboratory experience in marine megafauna (cetaceans, marine birds, and otters) field research methodology and data analysis under the mentorship of experienced marine scientists. Lasting between one and six months, there’s a variety of research projects that will prepare participants for a professional career in the research of marine mammals, and conservation of the marine environment. With state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, participants will be trained to get involved with multiple research projects involving a combination of boat-based surveys onboard research vessels, land-based observations, laboratory work (photo-identification, GIS, bioacoustics, diet analysis, diving behaviour, video analysis, database work, etc), and strandings (response, rescue, necropsy, and data collection). The BDRI office is located in a pleasant research centre located in O Grove, Galicia (Spain). The BDRI is a very international environment, and the everyday working language is English. The institute and research vessels are equipped with the state-of-the-art technology, and the study area has especially good conditions for marine mammals and marine birds research. The incredible diversity of cetaceans present in these waters (up to 22 different species recorded) allows the BDRI team to have several ongoing research projects focused on the study of the ecology and behaviour of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises, Risso’s dolphins, common dolphins, pilot whales, humpback whales, minke whales, sei whales, fin whales, and blue whales. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! BDRI internships are not paid and this training experience requires a tuition fee which is used to off-set the cost of training, use of research equipment, facilities and research vessels, shared accommodation, and other expenses. The fee reflects the real world costs and expenses that go into making the research program possible and the ¨Internship¨ program worthwhile. For more information and details, please visit the page <https://www.thebdri.com/internships.html> Feel free to send us an e-mail to: info(a)thebdri.com for any further information about the program. Some of our ex-interns shared their BDRI internship experience at: <https://youtu.be/UAuO2XasBnw> For regular updates with photos and videos about our programs and research activities feel free to visit <https://www.facebook.com/thebdri/> Scientific articles recently published by the BDRI (for a full list of publications please visit: <http://www.thebdri.com/research/papers.html>) Diaz Lopez, B. (2018) “Hot deals at sea”: responses of a top predator (Bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus) to human-induced changes in the coastal ecosystem. Behavioral Ecology. http:/doi.org/10.1093/beheco/ary162 Methion, S. & Diaz Lopez, B. (2018) Abundance and demographic parameters of bottlenose dolphins in a highly affected coastal ecosystem. Marine and Freshwater Research https://doi.org/10.1071/MF17346 Diaz Lopez, B & Methion, S. (2018) Does interspecific competition drive patterns of habitat use and relative density in harbour porpoises? Marine Biology (2018) 165:92. http://doi.org/10.1007/s00227-018-3345-8 Bruno Díaz López Ph.D Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684248552 Like us on Facebook. Follow us on Instagram. Mention us on Twitter. This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). Thank you for your cooperation.

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New archaic mysticete fossils from Antarctica
by Felix Marx 02 Apr '19

02 Apr '19

Dear colleagues, please find below the abstract and link to our recently published paper on new, surprisingly large fossils of the archaic mysticete Llanocetus from Antarctica. Marx, F.G., Buono, M.R., Evans, A.R., Fordyce, R.E., Reguero, M., and Hocking, D.P. (2019). Gigantic mysticete predators roamed the Eocene Southern Ocean. Antarct Sci 31, 98-104. Link: www.cambridge.org/core/journals/antarctic-science/article/gigantic-mysticet… Abstract: Modern baleen whales (Mysticeti), the largest animals on Earth, arose from small ancestors around 36.4 million years ago (Ma). True gigantism is thought to have arisen late in mysticete history, with species exceeding 10 m unknown prior to 8 Ma. This view is challenged by new fossils from Seymour Island (Isla Marambio), Antarctica, which suggest that enormous whales once roamed the Southern Ocean during the Late Eocene (c. 34 Ma). The new material hints at an unknown species of the archaic mysticete Llanocetus with a total body length of up to 12 m. The latter is comparable to that of extant Omura's whales (Balaenoptera omurai Wada et al. 2003), and suggests that gigantism has been a re-occurring feature of mysticetes since their very origin. Functional analysis including sharpness and dental wear implies an at least partly raptorial feeding strategy, starkly contrasting with the filtering habit of living whales. The new material markedly expands the size range of archaic mysticetes, and demonstrates that whales achieved considerable disparity shortly after their origin. Kind regards, Felix Marx _____________________________ *Felix G. Marx* PhD | FNRS Postdoctoral Fellow *University of Liège, Belgium *Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium *Monash University, Melbourne, Australia *Museums Victoria, Melbourne, Australia Address: Institut royal des Sciences naturelles de Belgique D.O. Terre et Histoire de la Vie, Evolution de la Paléobiosphère 29 rue Vautier, 1000 Brussels, Belgium Phone: +32 (0)488 897314

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Eco-volunteer Opportunities - Greece, Northern Aegean Dolphin Project
by Κimonas Koemtzopoulos 02 Apr '19

02 Apr '19

Dear All, On behalf of MOm/ Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal I am pleased to announce that we are currently accepting applications for our summer 2019 research season of the Northern Aegean Dolphin Project. The project takes place in the pristine National Marine Park of Alonissos, Northern Sporades and focuses on the photo-identification and behavioral data collection for the populations of Striped Dolphins (*Stenella coeruleoalba*), Common Dolphins (*Delphinus delphis*) and Bottlenose Dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) regularly found in the area as well as the occasional encounter with Cuvier’s Beaked Whales (*Ziphius cavirostris*) and Risso’s Dolphins (*Grampus griseus*). *Location*: National Marine Park of Alonissos, Northern Sporades - Alonissos, Greece *Dates*: 10 June – 15 September 2019 *Duration*: Minimum 1 Week *You will*: - Receive Training and Experience in marine mammal research methods - Participate in daily boat-based research expeditions (weather-dependent) - Participate in data collection and data analysis (Photo-ID) - Learn about cetacean biology, ecology and conservation - Actively contribute to marine conservation in a Marine Protected Area - Experience life on a beautiful Greek Island in the largest Marine Protected Area in Europe. *Requirements*: No previous experience is required. All you need is an interest in Cetacean biology, ecology and conservation and a positive attitude. Joining one of our weekly expeditions requires a participation fee which covers shared accommodation, two meals/day, training/lessons and part of the operational costs of the project. *How to Apply*: To participate in the Northern Aegean Dolphin Project please contact us on info(a)mom.gr or visit: www.northernaegeandolphinproject.com For information on MOm please visit: www.mom.gr For reviews of the experience by previous participants please visit our facebook pages: www.facebook.com/NorthernAegeanDolphinProject/ www.facebook.com/mom.gr Best wishes to all! Κίμων Κοεμτζόπουλος - *Βιολόγος MSc* *MOm/Εταιρεία Μελέτης & Προστασίας Μεσογειακής Φώκιας* Kimon Koemtzopoulos - *Biologist MSc* *MOm/Hellenic Society for the Study & Protection of the Monk Seal* www.mom.gr info(a)mom.gr T: 0030 *2105222888* M: 0030 *6937580071*

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VOLUNTEERING PROGRAM WITH MARINE MAMMALS IN ECUADOR
by FEMM ECUADOR 01 Apr '19

01 Apr '19

*VOLUNTEERING PROGRAM WITH MARINE MAMMALS IN ECUADOR* *BACKGROUND**: *FEMM Ecuador (Fundación Ecuatoriana para el estudio de Mamíferos Marinos), is a private, non-profit and volunteering organization. We have been working on research and conservation for 30 years to benefit Marine mammals: bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus)* and humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) mainly and in recent years with marine-coastal protected areas to preserve their habitats. We need volunteers to help us to support projects and activities related with these marine mammal’s species and marine coastal protected areas. The main areas of work are related to research, conservation, sustainable management, environmental education, ecotourism and regulations and policies. We expect that volunteers could be involved in research, conservation, education, administrative, social media/web, fundraising work and other activities. *WHERE*: Santa Elena and Posorja, Ecuador *WHEN: *The bottlenose dolphins of the area that we study are always in their habitats so we do field trips during the whole year. The humpback whale season is between June and September. Beside we have office work to analyze all this data the whole year. *FEES: * There are four different volunteering programs: 1. *Internship volunteering:* minimum 1 month, it's included accommodation and two meals with a 50 USD daily fee (more information on the sections below). Research field trips included. 2. *Free volunteering:* minimum 6 months, it's included accommodation but the other conditions will be agreed between the Foundation and the volunteer. 3. *Free volunteering with special arrangements:* limited (short) time for people with special skills required by the organization and conditions will be agreed with FEMM Ecuador. Accommodation it's included. 4. *Online volunteering:* minimum 1 month with the conditions specified in the online volunteering section. It is not on-site. Personal internet services needed. *In all of them it’s mandatory to pay a 5 USD application fee. For more information, check the link below. https://www.givingway.com/organization/femmecuador *VOLUNTEER POSITIONS* *1. Assistant in different disciplines/multipurpose activities * *2. Marketing and Fundraising* *3. Community manager* *4. Administrative Assistant* *5. Environmental Education Assistant* *6. Conservation Assistant* *7. Website Designer to create the Organization website* *8. Drone photographer* *REQUIREMENTS* *A.- Mandatory/ Essential* · A1. Ages between 18-45 years old, exceptionally outstanding seniors or teenagers with strong background and authorization letter signed by their parents. Each case will be analyzed on personal and conditional basis. · A2. University student / professional in biology, environmental, Biodiversity, zoology, tourism, geography, administration, marketing, Data analysis (including related careers) or previous experience in volunteering with marine mammals or related topics. · A3. Love specially for nature, Biodiversity, protected areas and environment and special love for Marine Mammals. · A4. Capacity to work alone/team with long and flexible periods of time. · A5. Capacity to follow orders · A6. Excellent communicational skills. · A7. Excellent personal attitude and tolerance to work and deal with different kind of people. · A8. Capacity to work in field / office activities. · A9. Adaptation to live in shared/ multicultural conditions. · A10. Absolute respect and care for institutional administrative proceedings, internal rules, and all volunteers/members of FEMM. · A11. Absolute respect and care for institutional accommodations, furniture and equipment. · A12. Bring your Own laptop to office work. · A13. English or Spanish spoken. · A14. Application fee of 5 USD. · A15. Minimum 1 month of work at the internship volunteering program. · A16. Minimum 1 month of work at the online volunteering program. · A17. Minimum 6 months of work at the free volunteering program. · A18. Meet the visa requirements (tourism visa is good enough for volunteers that will stay between 3 and 6 months). · A19. International Medical/life insurance that covers you on volunteering time. *B.- Desirable/Preferable* · B1. Bring your own Professional camera or videocamera to field work. · B2. Availability to learn/teach/train in specific activities. · B3. Strong spoken/ written communication skills. · B4. Knowledge of handle GPS, Professional cameras, Statistics, photo-identification, GIS software, among others. · B5. Special/specific capabilities or background to support our work. To see more specific requirements, check the Givingway platform. *PROCEDURES: *applicants should check all the information of FEMM in the link below and apply here (it’s necessary to create an account): https://www.givingway.com/organization/femmecuador When you apply you will have to agree all the requirements, answer the questionnaire and pay de 5 USD. When this step of the application is done, it is required a CV and a cover letter (why do you want to come, which are your personal and professional interests). Once this process is done we will check all the information and we will proceed to make a videoconference interview by Skype. We have a donation program as well for the people who would like to help. https://www.givingway.com/donate/femmecuador Contact: Pedro Jiménez, president of FEMM Ecuador · email: femmecuador(a)gmail.com · Phone/ Whatsapp: +593 999892591 · Skype: pedro.ecuador peterjoe01(a)yahoo.es · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FEMMECUADOR/ · Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/femmecuador/ · Twitter: https://twitter.com/FEMMECUADOR -- Biol. Pedro J. Jiménez V. *Presidente FEMM Ecuador* Especialista en Mamíferos marinos, biodiversidad y Manejo de Áreas Protegidas Consultor en Proyectos Ambientales y turísticos Investigador de Mamíferos Marinos Guía turístico nacional y local *Dirección Oficina Principal* Pasaje A, 204 entre calle 3ª y 4ª Urdesa norte Guayaquil - Guayas - Ecuador - Sudamérica *Dirección Oficina Sucursal Playas- **Península* * Valdivia s/n y Felix Sarmiento ** - *Santa Elena - Ecuador *Celular/ Whatsapp * 593-(0)999892591 *telf:* 593-(0) 2386127 *Website:* www.femmecuador.org *Facebook*: Pedro José Jimenez / FEMM Ecuador *Twitter: *FEMMECUADOR *Instagram:* femmecuador *Youtube*: FEMM ECUADOR <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnU-J8Ovab_R0NBBr1eeImQ> *Programa de Voluntariado: * https://www.givingway.com/organization/femmecuador

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HWDT Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Volunteer Placement
by Morven Summers 01 Apr '19

01 Apr '19

Hebridean Whale Trail: Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Volunteer Placement Are you looking to gain valuable work experience, and play an active role in marine conservation? Are you interested in living and working at a lighthouse in a remote but beautiful part of Scotland? If so, then this is a fantastic opportunity for a once in a lifetime experience! You will be responsible for running Hebridean Whale Trail: Ardnamurchan, working with the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust alongside Ardnamurchan Lighthouse staff as part of an exciting new project to celebrate Scotland's incredible marine wildlife and heritage. You will inspire and inform visitors and the local community, champion participation in citizen science, and carry out data collection for marine mammal monitoring programmes. ROLE DESCRIPTION: . Provide expert wildlife guiding and informal interpretation to visitors about Hebridean marine wildlife, environment and heritage . Carry out dedicated land-based cetacean data collection and encourage visitors to participate in whale watching and biological recording activities . Positively represent HWDT and the Hebridean Whale Trail: Ardnamurchan in person and through digital media . Provide excellent customer service in the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse stables coffee shop (1 day a week). <https://hwdt.org/news?category=The%20Hebridean%20Whale%20Trail> Read about last year's placement WHEN: 24TH JUNE TO 6 TH SEPTEMBER 2019 WHERE: ARDNAMURCHAN LIGHTHOUSE COMMITMENT: FULL TIME, 5 DAYS PER WEEK, INCLUDING WEEKENDS TO APPLY: Please email a current C.V. and covering letter outlining why you are applying for the position to siobhan.moran(a)hwdt.org APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12 NOON FRIDAY 12TH APRIL 2019. Shortlisted candidates will be invited interview via Skype in the w/c 15th April 2019. <https://hwdt.org/s/2019-Whale-Trail-Volunteer-Placement.pdf> Full Job Description Morven Summers Media and Communications Officer Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust +44 (0)1688 302620 | <http://www.hwdt.org/> hwdt.org My standard working week is Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 9am - 1pm <https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org/> Facebook | <https://twitter.com/HWDT_org> Twitter | <https://www.instagram.com/hwdt_org/> Instagram

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NEW PUBLICATION: Long-term decline in survival and reproduction of dolphins following a marine heatwave
by Sonja Wild 01 Apr '19

01 Apr '19

Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Current Biology: Sonja Wild, Michael Krützen, Robert W. Rankin, William J.E. Hoppitt, Livia Gerber, Simon J. Allen. (2019). Long-term decline in survival and reproduction of dolphins following a marine heatwave. Current Biology, Volume 29, Issue 7<https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/09609822/29/7>, 1 April 2019, Pages R239-R240, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2019.02.047 Abstract: One of many challenges in the conservation of biodiversity is the recent trend in the frequency and intensity of extreme climatic events. The Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Western Australia, endured an unprecedented marine heatwave in 2011. Catastrophic losses of habitat-forming seagrass meadows followed, along with mass mortalities of invertebrate and fish communities. Our long-term demographic data on Shark Bay’s resident Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) population revealed a significant decline in female reproductive rates following the heatwave. Moreover, capture–recapture analyses indicated 5.9% and 12.2% post-heatwave declines in the survival of dolphins that use tools to forage and those that do not, respectively. This implies that the tool using dolphins may have been somewhat buffered against the cascading effects of habitat loss following the heatwave by having access to a less severely affected foraging niche. Overall, however, lower survival has persisted post-heatwave, suggesting that habitat loss following extreme weather events may have prolonged, negative impacts on even behaviourally flexible, higher-trophic level predators. The article can be downloaded under (includes a short video abstract): https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1Ypn93QW8RqIKZ Any questions? Please feel free to email me: bssw(a)leeds.ac.uk<mailto:bssw@leeds.ac.uk> Best wishes, Sonja Wild & co-authors ------------------------------------------------ Sonja Wild PhD candidate Manton 8.17 School of Biology University of Leeds LS2 9JT Leeds (UK) bssw(a)leeds.ac.uk www.sharkbaydolphins.org<http://www.sharkbaydolphins.org> [1518691427195_Shark-Bay-DIP-Logo_red.jpg]

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