February 2020 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Information needed on polar bear diving physiology
by Potlock, Kelsey M 24 Feb '20

24 Feb '20

Hello MARMAM community: I am looking for information related to polar bear (Ursus maritimus) diving physiology; specifically information, data, and literature having to do with breathhold ability, duration submerged, and lengths of time swimming/diving. I have already found the following papers: -Stirling and van Meurs 2015 "Longest recorded underwater dive by a polar bear" -Lone et al. 2018 "Aquatic behaviour of polar bears (Ursus maritimus) in an increasingly ice-free Arctic" Any other information, unpublished work, or information would be welcome! Please email kelsey_potlock(a)fws.gov if you are able to assist! -- Thank you, Kelsey Potlock, M.Phil Marine Mammal Mitigation Ecologist Department of Marine Mammal Management U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 1011 East Tudor Rd, MS 341 Anchorage, AK 99503-6199 Office: (+1) 907-786-3316 ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º>¸. `·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸¸·´¯`·.. ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º>

1 0

New publication: Asymmetric and spiraled genitalia coevolve with unique lateralized mating behavior.
by Dara Orbach 24 Feb '20

24 Feb '20

Dear Colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce that the following article has been published : Orbach, D.N., Brennan, P.L.R., Hedrick, B.P., Keener, W., Webber, M., Mesnick, S.L. 2020. Asymmetric and spiraled genitalia coevolve with unique lateralized mating behavior. *Scientific Reports 10:*3257. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-60287-w ABSTRACT: Asymmetric genitalia and lateralized mating behaviors occur in several taxa, yet whether asymmetric morphology in one sex correlates or coevolves with lateralized mating behavior in the other sex remains largely unexplored. While lateralized mating behaviors are taxonomically widespread, among mammals they are only known in the harbor porpoise (*Phocoena phocoena)*. Males attempt copulation by approaching a female exclusively on her left side. To understand if this unusual lateralized behavior may have coevolved with genital morphology, we quantified the shape of female and male harbor porpoise reproductive tracts using 2D geometric morphometrics and 3D models of the vaginal lumen and inflated distal penis. We found that the vaginas varied individually in shape and that the vaginas demonstrated both significant directional and fluctuating asymmetry. This asymmetry resulted from complex 3D spirals and vaginal folds with deep recesses, which may curtail the depth or direction of penile penetration and/or semen movement. The asymmetric shapes of the vaginal lumen and penis tip were both left-canted with similar angular bends that mirrored one another and correspond with the left lateral mating approach. We suggest that the reproductive anatomy of both sexes and their lateral mating behavior coevolved. The article is open access online (free access): https://rdcu.be/b16Kq <http://em.rdcu.be/ls/click?upn=1VX9wGiUV7k-2FG8imEHteFwGVac3bj56KfEfjnFIQ-2…> Please, do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions Cheers, Dara Orbach, PhD Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi

1 0

Article. Steroid extraction from whiskers: Publication of novel 'method'
by Nico Lubcker 24 Feb '20

24 Feb '20

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the Marion Island Marine Mammal Programme (MIMMP's) latest paper: “What’s in a whisker? High-throughput analysis of twenty-eight C19 and C21 steroids in mammalian whiskers by ultra-performance convergence chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry”. Herein, we developed a novel method to analyze multiple steroids deposited chronologically along the length of seal whiskers. The manuscript describes an accurate quantification method for multiple steroids, measured in a single chromatography step which reduces the cost and time associated with the analyses. The advance of this method can contribute to our understanding of the impact of stress associated with environmental/climate changes that affect the health and survival of organisms, as well as to delineate the reproductive cycles of free-living mammals with cryptic life stages. I trust that the readership of this mailing list will find the manuscript of interest. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1570023219316642?fbc… https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339227340_What's_in_a_whisker_High-throughput_analysis_of_twenty-eight_C19_and_C21_steroids_in_mammalian_whiskers_by_ultra-performance_convergence_chromatography-tandem_mass_spectrometry Sincerely, Nico Lubcker PhD. Zoology Candidate Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Nico_Luebcker marionseals.com/people/

1 0

March & April PAM Software Training Groups
by Elizabeth Ferguson 24 Feb '20

24 Feb '20

Greetings MARMAM, We would like to inform interested individuals that we are now accepting registrations for the March and April training groups of *PAM Software Basics*, a fully online course designed to teach participants how to use software for the passive acoustic monitoring of marine mammals. *PAM Software Basics* is an eight module, course that provides instruction in two industry-leading bioacoustic software programs, Ishmael and PAMGuard. The course provides instruction in topics of file configuration, data collection, sound detection and localization of marine mammals using guided videos and associated activities. Participants are provided a 30-day period to navigate through materials at their own pace and location, and flexible start times are available through monthly training groups. We provide support and feedback along the way to ensure participants gain confidence and comfort with software. Registration details and additional information regarding this unique training can be found at the course page below. PAM Software Basics <https://www.oceanscienceanalytics.com/pam-software-basics> Regards, Liz Ferguson *CEO and Founder* *Ocean Science Analytics* *www.oceanscienceanalytics.com <http://www.oceanscienceanalytics.com>*

1 0

Beach Monitoring Research Assistant
by Kristi Collom 22 Feb '20

22 Feb '20

Position Beach Monitoring Research Assistant Program EnviroMENTOR program with Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity (RiSE) at Rockaway Waterfront Alliance (RWA) Mentor / Principal Investigator Kristi Collom, Gotham Whale Society for Marine Mammalogy Northeast Chapter kristi(a)gothamwhale.org gothamwhale.org Dates June 1st-Aug 15th, 2020 (1-3 days/week) Location In-situ observations will be conducted at two shoreline sites along Beach 60th and Beach 110th Rockaway Beach, NY (40.5844148, -73.7995866) (40.5783010, -73.8314845) Salary Candidates that can commit to a minimum of 3 days per week from June 15th-July 17th will be eligible for a stipend of $500. Schedule is extremely flexible and can easily accommodate to RA availability. Voluntary participation requires a minimum of 10 days participating in beach monitoring survey dates. We welcome students interested in developing their own project focus for an independent study with their institutional affiliation. Project Shore-based monitoring and photo ID of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) on the Rockaway Peninsula with community based social science surveys to gauge public awareness of marine mammal presence and interactions therein. Goals Our overarching aim is to identify movement patterns, human-wildlife interaction and obtain photo-identification to compare with the current regional catalog I’ve developed in ongoing research with Gotham Whale. The project is two-fold, incorporating shore based surveys at Beach 60th to track patterns of occurrence and risk assessment. Secondary is to incorporate an assessment of public awareness to the presence of marine mammals, regulations therein, species ID, implications for conservation as well as recommendations for regional management. While broadly focused as a social science survey method, we will also conduct interviews with regional authorities, fisherman and lifeguards in the form of ethnographies. A filmmaker will be documenting this project and all candidates must sign a waiver to be included in the film. We will also have (4) dates aboard the American Princess whale watch to train students in shore-based methods and learn more about whale and dolphin behavioral observations. Mentorship This project is geared towards local high school students (primarily minority groups), to provide exposure to local ecology and an introduction to scientific research methodology. Students will propose a project focus in the vein of our study design. The program culminates with a final presentation with the Student Research Mentoring Program (ShRiMP) hosted at the American Museum of Natural History and future participation in a NYC Science and Engineering Fair (NYCEF) competition. We will have 6-8 students participating this summer. Responsibilities The RA will assist mentors with training students in data collection (environmental, observational) and standard photo identification techniques. All students will be trained to use a DSLR camera for photo and video observations, use a rangefinder for distance sampling, odometer for wind speed and to measure water temperature, pH and salinity. The RA will be responsible for secondary photo-ID collection and should be comfortable using a DSLR camera. All survey assignments will be limited to 4-hour observations with a tent available to provide respite from the elements. Surveys will take place at variable time frames between 8am-4pm 2-3 days per week. Specific survey dates TBD based on RA availability. Requirements To be eligible for the stipend, applicants must currently own a DSLR camera, be able to commit to 2 days per week in June and July with flexibility regarding scheduled dates (Surveys will be conducted on variable weekdays and weekends). The last two weeks of June is most critical as we will be conducting 5 surveys this week on sequential dates, including morning and afternoon survey sessions. These surveys will be evenly shared between (2) mentors and (1) RA. No experience is needed although candidates should be currently enrolled in a degree program or recent graduate with an interest in marine mammals and conservation. Those that possess experience with similar fieldwork, own a DSLR camera and can commit to a minimum of 2 days per week will be eligible for the stipend. Candidates must be comfortable with dedicated observation time in variable weather conditions, often in direct sunlight at temperatures of 70-100° F. Tents and water will be provided to provide respite for observers with facilities on site. If interested, submit your resume/CV to Kristi Collom with a brief email introduction indicating interest, availability and if you would like to be considered for the stipend. Kristi(a)gothamwhale.org __________________________________________________ Kristi Ashley Collom Senior Research Associate, Gotham Whale Marine Biodiversity Expedition Leader & Northeast Outreach, National Geographic Student Expeditions Acoustic Analyst, Ocean Giants Program, Wildlife Conservation Society Board of Directors, Society for Marine Mammalogy Northeast Student Chapter kristiashleycollom(a)gmail.com skype: kristi.ashley.collom m. (917) 530-1198

1 0

New publication: Total and subcellular Ti distribution and detoxification processes in Pontoporia blainvillei and Steno bredanensis dolphins from Southeastern Brazil (Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis)
by Rachel Ann Hauser Davis 22 Feb '20

22 Feb '20

Dear MARMAM colleagues, My co-authors and I are very happy to share our new publication, which is open-access for 50 days (until 12th April, 2020) and can be downloaded at https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1acge_,3htb~KD <https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1acge_,3htb~KD> Abstract: Titanium (Ti), used in many daily-use products, such as shampoos and sunscreen filters, in the form of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), may elicit adverse marine biota effects. Marine mammal Ti data is scarce, and subcellular distribution and detoxification information is non-existent. Ti concentrations and metalloprotein detoxification in Pontoporia blainvillei and Steno bredanensis dolphins from Southeastern Brazil were assessed. Metallothionein (MT) concentrations were determined spectrophotometrically, total and subcellular Ti, by ICP-MS and detox- ification, by HPLC-ICP-MS. Ti detoxification occurred through MT complexation. Statistical Ti-MT associations were observed in S. bredanensis liver, indicating TiO2 NPs contamination, as Ti binds to MT only as NPs. MT-Ti correlations were observed for both the coastal (P. blainvillei) and offshore (S. bredanensis) dolphins, evidencing oceanic TiO2 diffusion. Ti detoxification through binding to reduced glutathione occurred in both species. Thermostable subcellular fractions are a valuable tool for cetacean Ti detoxification assessments and should be applied to conservation efforts. Cheers Rachel Dr. Rachel Ann Hauser Davis Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rachel_Hauser-Davis https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9451-471X <https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9451-471X> http://lattes.cnpq.br/5987657587996872 -- *Dr. Rachel Ann Hauser DavisOswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz)* https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rachel_Hauser-Davis *https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9451-471X <https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9451-471X>* http://lattes.cnpq.br/5987657587996872

1 0

Bottlenose dolphin project research in Venezuela. Interns and Volunteers program 2020.
by Sergio Cobarrubia 22 Feb '20

22 Feb '20

BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN PROJECT RESEARCH IN VENEZUELA. INTERNS AND VOLUNTEER PROGRAM 2020. Laboratory of Ecosystems and Global Change (LEGC-IVIC) and Provita. BACKGROUND: The Laboratory of Ecosystems and Global Change (LEGC) of the Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research (IVIC, www.ivic.gob.ve) invites the second season of internships-volunteering (2020) in the study of coastal dolphins. LEGC is a scientific team that among its research lines on the fauna of coastal and riparian ecosystems, it has established the first one on aquatic mammals in Venezuela. On the other hand, Provita is an important NGO that contributes to the research and conservation in Venezuela. This research will begin with a project focused on sociobiology (social structure, social networks and bioacoustics) of resident groups of the coastal bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) in the central coast of Venezuela. This, after an experience of 5 years in that locality studying ecological aspects of T. truncatus ( https://doi.org/10.1007/s13364-018-0401-1) The coast of Aragua not only home this species, but also the Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni), the common dolphin (Delphinus sp.) and the spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris). Of which basic information is collected too. LEGC interns and volunteers are young, hard-working who are willing to contribute to research by learning as they experience fieldwork in teams, field techniques for collecting and processing data and methodologies. All team members and interns share academic space, housing in the Institute, housework in the study area, knowledge and experience in a friendly and multicultural environment. The internship consists of three weeks: The first week of theoretical-practical introduction (24 theoretical hours and 16 practicals hours) at the IVIC Ecology Center ( www.ivic.gob.ve/es/investigacion-3/centros-31/ecologia-316) The second week of seven field surveys for data collection (42 h) on the Cata Bay (Aragua state) and the third week for data processing and analysis at the IVIC Ecology Center (40 h). The volunteering consist of the second and third weeks. WHERE: Theory: LEGC, Center of Ecology (IVIC) Miranda State, Caracas (10 23 N - 66 58 W). Practice: Cata Bay, western coast of the (rain forest) National Park Henry Pittier, Aragua state (central coast of Venezuela) 150 km from Caracas (DC) (10 29 N - 67 44 W). PROGRAM: Interns (Three weeks), Volunteers (Two weeks). 1st WEEK (LEGC-Ecology Center, 40 hours. For Interns). - Monday: What is a cetacean? The cetaceans and the human in history. Origin, evolution and diversity. Adaptations for aquatic life: Anatomy and Physiology. Life histories. Biogeography Distribution. Ecology Behavior. Conservation. - Tuesday: Identification of species reported for Venezuela. Basic logistics for the study of cetaceans on the mainland, sea and air. Basic equipment to collect information. - Wednesday: How to detect cetaceans and record an effective sighting? Basic data to collect during a sighting, calibration and use of GPS. Configuration and use of the SLR cameras. Download of sightings (GIS). Download pictures and selection (software). - Thursday: Daily encounter ratio. Photo-identification as a tool for ecological and behavioral studies. Estimates of abundance. Local distribution and areas of action. - Friday: Residential patterns. Behavior (deployments, states, daily budget). Habitat use. Social structure and social networks. Bioacoustics. Saturday: Break. Sunday: Transfer to the Cata Bay. 2nd WEEK (Cata Bay-Provita, 42 hours. For Interns and Volunteers). The field surveys will be carried out in a fishing vessel of 9 m in length by 2 of beam, no roof. The field work will depend on the climatic conditions, however, the Aragua coast offers few climatic inconveniences throughout the year. There will be 7 mornings of field surveys in the week, after each survey is lunch, rest and then proceed to download the data of sightings and then interpret them preliminarily and discuss them. We recommend wearing a long-sleeved shirt, cool pants, hat and sunscreen (30-50 PF). In the field surveys, it will be implemented: - The identification and recognition of the elements of the marine landscape and the method of tracking and detection of cetaceans. - Ethical navigation mode to study cetaceans. - The basic data collection / sighting. - Use of GPS. - Use of SRL digital camera. - Counting of individuals and composition of a group. - Identification of the behavioral states that configure group behavior and its recording. - Use of hydrophone. - Identification and counting of birds. -Identification and counting of vessels and other antropic objects. In the afternoon the information of the sightings will be downloaded: - Sighting forms. - Latitude and longitude. - Photographs and their selection. - Voice recordings (behavior). - Recordings of vocalizations. - Birds sightings. - Vessels and anthropic objects sightings. 3rd WEEK (LEGC-Ecology Center, 40 hours. For Interns and volunteers). PRACTICAL FEES: Accomodation (IVIC students residence and apartment in Cata Bay), food and transport (airport-IVIC-Cata Bay-IVIC-airport) are paid. The cost of internships and volunteers is US $ 720 for the compensation of logistical expenses of the field surveys. For more information, please contact:sergio.cobarrubia@gmail.com. Ask all your questions, especially to mitigate your concerns regarding Venezuela. Since our nation is the object of an intense media campaign where opinion matrices project false dystopian scenarios. WHEN: During the year there will be 6 internships-volunteering sessions (February, April, June, August, October, November). For interns, second, third and fourth week of the months scheduled. For volunteers, third and fourth week of the scheduled months. VACANTS: 4 people / session. Not included in the rate: - Meals in restaurants - Free time activities - Personal insurance (all participants must have health and / or travel insurance) - Personal expenses. INTEREST IS EXPECTED: - Being over 18 years - Iterns: Preference will be given to undergraduate students and professional students (biology, marine biology, environmental, conservation and plus). - Volunteer: No preferences. - Have a mature attitude towards the investigation of marine mammals and environment. - Be autonomous and flexible. - To be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors in the sea - Speak Spanish, English or Portuguese. ACADEMIC CREDITS: The LEGC will certify the work performed by intern or volunteer through a diploma with the recognition of the hours (academic-practical) worked. APPLICATION AND QUESTIONS: Applicants must write to sergio.cobarrubia(a)gmail.com with the subject "DOLPHINS PROJECT_Name". You will be sent a confirmation email with all the details about the study area and the species present, the practices and requesting your CV resume, motivation letter (small statement about what your expectations are and why you want to work with LEGC) and the internship month of your choice. Applications will be accepted throughout the year, however, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. PLUS: The possibility of making one-day expedition to the pelagic habitat is opened, this other expedition will allow us to watch Atlantic spotted dolphins, spinner dolphins or pilot whales. -- *Sergio Enrique Cobarrubia Russo* Laboratorio de Ecosistemas y Cambio Global Centro de Ecología Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas Venezuela.

1 0

New publication: Multi-year assessment (2006–2015) of persistent organic pollutant concentrations in blubber and muscle from Western Arctic bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus), North Slope, Alaska
by Jennie Bolton - NOAA Federal 21 Feb '20

21 Feb '20

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, we are pleased to announce the following article has been published: Jennie L. Bolton, Gina M. Ylitalo, Paul Chittaro, Craig George, Robert Suydam, Brian T. Person, Jonelle B. Gates, Keri A. Baugh, Todd Sformo, Raphaela Stimmelmayr Multi-year assessment (2006–2015) of persistent organic pollutant concentrations in blubber and muscle from Western Arctic bowhead whales (*Balaena mysticetus*), North Slope, Alaska Abstract: Blubber and muscle were collected from male bowhead whales (*n* = 71) landed near Utqiaġvik (Barrow), Alaska, between 2006 and 2015 and analyzed for lipid content and concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in order to determine levels and trends over the collection period. Collection year was a significant predictor of blubber concentrations for most classes of POPs, while for a few classes, animal length (proxy for age) was also a significant predictor. This is the first report on levels of PBDEs in bowhead whales; concentrations of these compounds are low (≤55 ng/g wet weight). Blubber concentrations were lower than those reported in samples collected between 1992 and 2000, and many POP classes in blubber declined significantly between 2006 and 2015. Concentrations of POPs in bowhead whale tissues, which are subsistence foods for Native Alaskan communities, appear to be declining at rates comparable with previously reported temporal trends in Arctic biota. The article is online at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.110857 -- Jennie L. Bolton *Research Chemist, **Environmental Chemistry Program* *Environmental and Fisheries Sciences Division* *Northwest Fisheries Science Center2725 Montlake Boulevard EastSeattle WA 98112Ph: (206) 860-3359 fax: (206) 860-3335* *jennie.bolton(a)noaa.gov <jennie.bolton(a)noaa.gov>*

1 0

Request for Greg Bossart Photos/Videos for SEAMAMMS 2020
by Herring, Hada 21 Feb '20

21 Feb '20

Photographs and videos of the late Greg Bossart, V.MD., Ph.D., are being requested to create a remembrance video, which will be shared at this year’s Southeast and Mid-Atlantic Marine Mammal Symposium (SEAMAMMS) in Miami, Florida. Please e-mail photographs/videos to seamamms(a)gmail.com<mailto:seamamms@gmail.com> by Friday, March 6th. We appreciate your help!

1 0

SEAMAMMS 2020 Early Registration Closing Soon!
by Herring, Hada 21 Feb '20

21 Feb '20

If you haven’t already, then please make sure to register for the 2020 Southeast and Mid-Atlantic Marine Mammal Symposium (SEAMAMMS) by Sunday, March 1st, to receive a special discount! SEAMAMMS will take place March 27-29 in Miami, Florida, and will be hosted by the University of Miami - Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (UM-RSMAS). For meeting details, including registration, schedule, key note speaker/panelists, and hotel recommendations, please visit: https://seamamms.wordpress.com<https://seamamms.wordpress.com/> . We hope to see you in March!

1 0