August 2020 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

publication announcement
by Jessica Taylor 31 Aug '20

31 Aug '20

Dear Marmam, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the following publication in Marine Mammal Science: Taylor, JS, Hart, LB, Adams, J. Skin lesion prevalence of estuarine common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in North Carolina, with comparisons to other east coast study sites. Marine Mammal Science 2020; 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.12731 Abstract:Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are sentinels of environmental health. Skin lesions may indicate disease and can be used to infer population health. We estimated the prevalence of skin lesions and identified major lesion types on coastal bottlenose dolphins in Roanoke Sound, North Carolina, over a 3-year period using photo-identification. Boat-based surveys were conducted from April 2012 through October 2014. High quality images of distinctive fins were examined for overall prevalence (P) of any skin lesion (n = 169, P = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.42–0.57). Lesion prevalence estimates varied little between years (2012 P = 0.45, 2013 P = 0.56, 2014 P = 0.52) and most lesions were observed in the spring (P = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.57–0.92). Of six lesion types examined, pale lesions were most common (P = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.30–0.52). Annual lesion prevalence estimates for dolphins in Roanoke Sound were comparable to published estimates for T. truncatus in Charleston, South Carolina, Brunswick, Georgia, and Sarasota, Florida (p ≥ .05), although, seasonal differences in lesion occurrence and typewere observed (p < .05). Future studies should examine relationships between lesions and environmental variables and use stranded dolphins to investigate skin lesion etiology. PDF reprints available upon request. Please send requests to: jess(a)obxdolphins.org Cheers,Jess Taylor

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New paper: Evidence of unidirectional hybridization and second‐generation adult hybrid between the two largest animals on Earth, the fin and blue whales
by Sverrir Daníel Halldórsson 31 Aug '20

31 Aug '20

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/eva.13091 On behalf of Christophe Pampoulie and co-authors, I am pleased to announce the publication of the following paper on hybridization between Fin and Blue whales in Evolutionary Applications Evidence of unidirectional hybridization and second‐generation adult hybrid between the two largest animals on Earth, the fin and blue whales Christophe Pampoulie, Davíð Gíslason, Guðbjörg Ólafsdóttir, Valérie Chosson, Sverrir Daníel Halldórsson, Stefano Mariani, Bjarki Þ. Elvarsson, Marianne H. Rasmussen, Maria R. Iversen, Anna Kristín Daníelsdóttir, Gísli A. Víkingsson Abstract Biodiversity in the oceans has dramatically declined since the beginning of the industrial era, with accelerated loss of marine biodiversity impairing the ocean's capacity to maintain vital ecosystem services. A few organisms epitomize the damaging and long‐lasting effects of anthropogenic exploitation: Some whale species, for instance, were brought to the brink of extinction, with their population sizes reduced to such low levels that may have caused a significant disruption to their reproductive dynamics and facilitated hybridization events. The incidence of hybridization is nevertheless believed to be rare, and very little information exists on its directionality. Here, using genetic markers, we show that all but one whale hybrid sample collected in Icelandic waters originated from the successful mating of male fin whale and female blue whale, thus suggesting unidirectional hybridization. We also demonstrate for the first time the existence of a second‐generation adult (male) hybrid resulting from a backcross between a female hybrid and a pure male fin whale. The incidence of hybridization events between fin and blue whales is likely underestimated and the observed unidirectional hybridization (for F1 and F2 hybrids) is likely to induce a reproductive loss in blue whale, which may represent an additional challenge to its recovery in the Atlantic Ocean compared to other rorquals.

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Re: [MARMAM] New paper on ecosystem services from marine mammals
by Christian Riisager-Simonsen 31 Aug '20

31 Aug '20

Dear all, On behalf of all the authors, I would like to call your attention to our recent paper in Conservation Biology where we present an overview of ecosystem services from marine mammals, potential indicators, and the case for using of ecosystem service assessments at the stock level, as a step towards implementing ecosystem�\based management of marine mammals. PDFs are available upon request to chrii(a)aqua.dtu.dk Thank you Christian Riisager-Simonsen Riisager�\Simonsen, C., Rendon, O., Galatius, A., Olsen, M.T. and Beaumont, N. (2020), Using ecosystem�\services assessments to determine trade�\offs in ecosystem�\based management of marine mammals. Conservation Biology. doi:10.1111/cobi.13512<https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.13512> Abstract The goal of ecosystem�\based management (EBM) is to support a sustainable and holistic multi-sectored management approach, and is recognized in a number of international policy frameworks. However, it remains unknown how these goals should be linked to assessments and management plans for marine fauna, such as mammals and fish stocks. It appears particularly challenging to carry out trade�\off analyses of various ocean uses without a framework that integrates knowledge of environmental, social, and economic benefits derived from nonstationary marine fauna. We argue this gap can be filled by applying a version of the ecosystem�\service approach at the population level of marine fauna. To advance this idea, we used marine mammals as a case study to demonstrate what indicators could operationalize relevant assessments and deliver an evidence base for the presence of ecosystem services and disservices derived from marine mammals. We found indicators covering common ecosystem service categories feasible to apply; examples of indicator data are already available in the literature for several populations. We encourage further exploration of this approach for application to marina fauna and biodiversity management, with the caveat that conceptual tensions related to the use of the ecosystem service concept itself needs to be addressed to ensure acceptance by relevant stakeholders. ________________________________ Fra: Christian Riisager-Simonsen Sendt: 22. august 2020 21:15:35 Til: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca Emne: New paper on ecosystem services from marine mammals Dear MARMAN manager I would like to hear if the following note could be added to the daily list of new publications �C which I enjoy very much. 1. New Publication . Dear all, On behalf of all the authors, I would like to call your attention to our recent paper in Conservation Biology where we present an overview of ecosystem services from marine mammals and potential indicators, and the case for using of ecosystem service assessments at the stock level, as a step towards implementing ecosystem�\based management of marine mammals. PDFs are available upon request to chrii(a)aqua.dtu.dk Thank you Christian Riisager-Simonsen Riisager�\Simonsen, C., Rendon, O., Galatius, A., Olsen, M.T. and Beaumont, N. (2020), Using ecosystem�\services assessments to determine trade�\offs in ecosystem�\based management of marine mammals. Conservation Biology. doi:10.1111/cobi.13512<https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.13512> Abstract The goal of ecosystem�\based management (EBM) is to support a sustainable and holistic multi-sectored management approach, and is recognized in a number of international policy frameworks. However, it remains unknown how these goals should be linked to assessments and management plans for marine fauna, such as mammals and fish stocks. It appears particularly challenging to carry out trade�\off analyses of various ocean uses without a framework that integrates knowledge of environmental, social, and economic benefits derived from nonstationary marine fauna. We argue this gap can be filled by applying a version of the ecosystem�\service approach at the population level of marine fauna. To advance this idea, we used marine mammals as a case study to demonstrate what indicators could operationalize relevant assessments and deliver an evidence base for the presence of ecosystem services and disservices derived from marine mammals. We found indicators covering common ecosystem service categories feasible to apply; examples of indicator data are already available in the literature for several populations. We encourage further exploration of this approach for application to marina fauna and biodiversity management, with the caveat that conceptual tensions related to the use of the ecosystem service concept itself needs to be addressed to ensure acceptance by relevant stakeholders. Best regards Christian Riisager-Simonsen Academic officer Marine Science & Policy DTU Aqua Koordinator Dansk Center for Havforskning http://www.danskhavforskning.net Technical University of Denmark National Institute of Aquatic Resources Kemitorvet Building 201, Room 248 2800 Kgs. Lyngby Mob: +45 91370058 chrii(a)aqua.dtu.dk<mailto:chrii@aqua.dtu.dk> www.dtu.dk/english<http://www.dtu.dk/english> [http://www.dtu.dk/-/media/DTU_Generelt/Andet/DTU_email_logo_01.gif]

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New publication: Year-round acoustic patterns of dolphins and interaction with anthropogenic activities in the Sicily Strait, central Mediterranean Sea
by elena.papale＠cnr.it 31 Aug '20

31 Aug '20

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication in Ocean and Coastal Management: Papale E., Alonge G., Grammauta R., Ceraulo M., Giacoma C., Mazzola S., Buscaino G. 2020 Year-round acoustic patterns of dolphins and interaction with anthropogenic activities in the Sicily Strait, central Mediterranean Sea 197, 105320 Here is the links to the paper https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0964569120302301?dgcid=a… Abstract: Understanding spatio-temporal patterns of top predators can be crucial for evaluating key habitats, assessing the effects of anthropogenic activity and consequently applying suitable management policies. Here, we characterized dolphins acoustic occurrence and interactions with boat presence and noise in the waters of the Sicily Strait. A hydrophone was deployed on an elastic beacon three miles off the coast of south-west Sicily, and recorded continuously for 14 months, from January 2015. Results revealed that packed and train clicks types were the most detected signals, suggesting that animals were especially involved in feeding activity. A regular year-round acoustic presence was recorded, with seasonal variability. Two peaks were detected during the year in August and November, concurrently with a possible increase in fish biomass in the area. An abrupt decrease in click detection rate in September coincides with the biological shutdown in 2015 and the shift of fishing vessels offshore, suggesting a possible movement of dolphins following trawlers. Furthermore, dolphins vocalized more during the night-time, probably carrying out movements to and from the coast. Results indicated that dolphins interact with trawlers during mid-morning when an intermediate level of activity was collected, but click detection rate decreased with increasing noise levels at one-third octave bands centered at 250 Hz. Outcomes can help inform conservation efforts and the development of monitoring programmes focused on environmental impact assessments under the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Some of you might also be interested in other recent papers we published this year: • Papale E., Prakash S., Singh S., Batibasaga A., Buscaino G., Piovano S. (2020) Soundscape of green turtle foraging habitats in Fiji, South Pacific. PLoS ONE 15(8): e0236628. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0236628 which can be found at https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0236628 and • Ceraulo M., Sal Moyano M.P., Bazterrica M.C., Hidalgo F.J., Papale E., Grammauta R., Gavio M.A., Mazzola S., Buscaino G. (2020) Spatial and temporal variability of the soundscape in a Southwestern Atlantic coastal lagoon. Hydrobiologia 847, 2255–2277. which can be found at https://doi.org/ 10.1007/s10750-020-04252-8 If you have any question or to request a pdf copy directly, you can contact me at elena.papale(a)cnr.it Cheers, Elena ____________________ Elena Papale, PhD Institute for the Study of Anthropogenic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS), National Research Council, Torretta Granitola (TP), Italy and Department of Life Science and Systems Biology University of Torino,Torino, Italy elena.papale(a)ias.cnr.it elena.papale(a)unito.it elenabiancapapale(a)gmail.com

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Statement of concern - Extinction risk to cetaceans
by Els Vermeulen 29 Aug '20

29 Aug '20

Dear Friends and Colleagues, This message is to invite you to sign onto the attached statement of concern, which we hope speaks for itself. Many of us have worked on cetacean conservation for some time, and whilst there are some signs of population recoveries in some cases, the situation for many populations and species is still deteriorating and, for some, it is critical. So, it seems appropriate for those of us with expertise to now stand together, highlight this situation and call for more action. If you would like to add your name onto the list of supporters of the statement, please send to us the following: · your name as you would like it to appear; · any letters that you would like to display after your name; · the name of your institution; and · your country. Our emails are mark.simmonds(a)sciencegyre.co.uk and elsvermeulen5(a)gmail.com The document has been reviewed and we are unable at this stage to accept any proposals for changes. Apart from personal support, we are also looking for people to help launch it, so that people in positions of influence take note of it. This will happen in about two weeks’ time. A final copy of the statement will be published on the Mammal Research Institute Whale Unit’s website with an updated list of names in due course (www.mammalresearchinstitute.science/whale-unit) Thank you for taking the time to look at this. We hope you will support it. Apologies for any cross-posting. Take good care, Best wishes, Mark and Els THE REAL AND IMMINENT EXTINCTION RISK TO WHALES, DOLPHINS AND PORPOISES: AN OPEN LETTER FROM [NUMBER] CETACEAN SCIENTISTS [date] Statement of concern We, the undersigned scientists, raise here our gravest concerns about the extinction risk to many species and populations of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises). Each one of us is a cetacean specialist and each one of us believes this issue is now critical. The lack of concrete action to address threats adversely affecting cetaceans in our increasingly busy, polluted, over-exploited and human-dominated seas and major river systems, means that many, one after another, will likely be declared extinct within our lifetimes. Even the large whales are not safe. The recent listing of the North Atlantic right whale, *Eubalaena glacialis*, by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as Critically Endangered reveals the serious failure of its relatively wealthy range countries to address a critical decline. Moreover, the factors driving this ongoing decline are well known, and, we believe, could be addressed. Only a few hundred North Atlantic right whale adults remain and, unless appropriate action comes soon, we will undoubtedly lose this entire species. Similarly, the Critically Endangered vaquita, *Phocoena sinus*, of the Gulf of California, Mexico, sits poised on the knife-edge of extinction, with an estimated population size that may be as low as only ten individuals. It is now almost inevitable that these two species will follow the baiji or Chinese river dolphin, *Lipotes vexillifer, *down the road to extinction. The baiji was identified as ‘Possibly Extinct’ by the IUCN in 2017 and, regrettably, there is little hope for this species. We believe, in all three cases, that enough was known about the situation of the species concerned for these dramatic declines to have been avoided, but that the political will to take action has been lacking. The bleak outlook for these three species shows how often too little is done too late. Of the 90 living species of cetaceans, more than half now have a concerning conservation status according to the IUCN, with 13 species listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ or ‘Endangered’, 7 as ‘Vulnerable’ and 7 as ‘Near Threatened’, whilst 24 species are ‘Data Deficient’. These ‘Data Deficient’ species may also be imperilled. We simply do not know. This lack of clear information about so many species and populations is itself a major concern. Additionally, there are 32 subspecies and other distinct cetacean populations which are presently either Endangered or Critically Endangered (please see the list below for further details), and with ongoing research we are recognizing more populations of cetaceans that are discrete and require conservation action. Regrettably, as the cases of the Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin* (Tursiops truncatus gephyreus)* of the subtropical western South Atlantic, the Gulf of Corinth common dolphin (*Delphinus delphis)* and the orcas (*Orcinus orca)* of the Strait of Gibraltar all illustrate, recognition of their distinctiveness may coincide with the realization that their population is already in danger of extinction. Cetacean populations are adversely affected by many interacting factors, including chemical and noise pollution, loss of habitat and prey, climate change and ship-strikes. For many, foremost among these threats is incidental take in fishing operations. Bearing these urgent matters in mind and with the knowledge that cetacean populations can be lost very quickly, we call on: countries with cetaceans in their waters to take precautionary action to ensure these species and populations are adequately protected from human activities, including implementing appropriate and fully resourced monitoring. We note that improved monitoring technologies now offer new opportunities to observe and address activities at sea; and all nations to both work with and strengthen the relevant international bodies that seek to address threats to cetaceans, including, but not limited to, the International Whaling Commission and the Convention for the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, both of which are generating important conservation initiatives at this time. Foremost among other relevant international organisations are the regional fisheries bodies, which can address fishing-related threats to cetaceans, noting the urgent need to address such impacts on many populations. Finally, we note that cetacean conservation, like much that relates to the marine environment, may be a concern that seems remote to many people. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic has shown, our connection to nature is a key component in our own wellbeing. Whales, dolphins and porpoises are seen and enjoyed all over the world, and are valued as sentient, intelligent, social and inspiring species; we should not deny future generations the opportunity to experience them. They are also sentinels of the health of our seas, oceans and, in some cases, major river systems and the role of cetaceans in maintaining productive aquatic ecosystems, which are key for our survival as well as theirs, is also becoming clearer. Please bring this statement to the attention of the relevant policy makers in your country and help us to help the cetaceans. Species and populations of cetaceans that are deemed at risk of extinction The list shows only the species, subspecies and distinct populations labelled as ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR), ‘Endangered’ (EN) or ‘Vulnerable’ (VU) and displays the latest assessment by the IUCN (highlighted in red) and, where available, the previous assessment, with their dates. ‘Global population’ refers to the status of the whole species or subspecies. The population trend is also noted: I = Increasing, D = Decreasing, S = Stable, ? = Unknown. Balaenidae Bowhead whale, *Balaena mysticetus* East Greenland-Svalbard-Barents Sea subpopulation 2012: CR, 2018: EN, ? Okhotsk Sea subpopulation 2012: EN, 2018: EN, D North Atlantic right whale, *Eubalaena glacialis*, Global population, 2018: EN, 2020: CR, D European population, 2007: CR, ? North Pacific right whale, *Eubalaena japonica*, Global population, 2008: EN, 2017: EN, ? Northeast Pacific subpopulation, 2008: CR, 2017: CR, ? Southern right whale, *Eubalaena australis* Chile-Peru subpopulation, 2013: CR, 2017: CR, ? Balaenopteridae Blue whale, *Balaenoptera musculus*, Global population, 2008: EN, 2018: EN, I European population 2007: EN, ? Antarctic blue whale, *Balaenoptera musculus *ssp*. intermedia*, Global population 2008: CR, 2018: CR, I Bryde’s whale, *Balaenoptera edeni* Gulf of Mexico subpopulation, 2017: CR, D Fin whale, *Balaenoptera physalus,* Global population, 2013: EN, 2018: VU, I Mediterranean population 2011: VU, D Humpback whale, *Megaptera novaeangliae* Oceania subpopulation, 2008: EN, I Arabian Sea subpopulation 2008: EN, ? Sei whale, *Balaenoptera borealis*, Global population, 2008: EN, 2018: EN, I European population, 2007: EN, ? Eschrichtiidae Gray whale, *Eschrichtius robustus* Western North Pacific subpopulation, 2008: CR, 2018: EN, I Delphinidae Atlantic humpback dolphin, *Sousa teuszii*, Global population, 2012: VU, 2017: CR, D Australian humpback dolphin, *Sousa sahulensis*, Global population, 2015: VU, D Australian snubfin dolphin, *Orcaella heinsohni*, Global population, 2008: NT, 2017: VU, D Common bottlenose dolphin, *Tursiops truncatus* Mediterranean population, 2009: VU, D Fiordland subpopulation, New Zealand, 2010: CR, D Black Sea bottlenose dolphin, *Tursiops truncatus *ssp.* ponticus*, Global population, 2008: EN, ? Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin, *Tursiops truncatus *ssp*. gephyreus*, Global population, 2019: VU, D Hector’s dolphin, *Cephalorhynchus hectori*, Global population, 2000: EN, 2008: EN, D North Island Hector’s dolphin, *Cephalorhynchus hectori *ssp*. maui*, Global population, 2000: CR, 2008: CR, D Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, *Sousa plumbea*, Global population, 2015: EN, D Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, *Sousa chinensis*, Global population, 2015: VU, D Taiwanese humpback dolphin, *Sousa chinensis *spp.* taiwanensis*, Global population, 2008: CR, 2017: CR, D Irrawaddy dolphin, *Orcaella brevirostris*, Global population, 2008: VU, 2017: EN, D Ayeyarwady River, Myanmar subpopulation, 2004: CR, D Iloilo-Guimaras, Philippines subpopulation, 2018: CR, D Mahakam river, Indonesia subpopulation, 2000: CR, 2008: CR, ? Malampaya Sound, Philippines subpopulation, 2004: CR, D Mekong River subpopulation, 2004: CR, D Songkhla Lake, Thailand subpopulation, 2004: CR, D Peruvian dusky dolphin, *Lagenorhynchus obscurus *ssp.* posidonia*, Global population, 2019: VU, ? Killer whale, *Orcinus orca* Straits of Gibraltar subpopulation, 2019: CR, S Short-beaked common dolphin*, Delphinus delphis*, Mediterranean population, 2003: EN, D Gulf of Corinth subpopulation, 2019: CR, ? Black Sea short-beaked common dolphin, *Delphinus delphis *ssp.* ponticus*, Global population, 2008: VU, Unspecified Eastern spinner dolphin,* Stenella longirostris *ssp*. orientalis*. Global population, 2008: VU, I Striped dolphin, *Stenella coeruleoalba* Mediterranean population, 2010: VU, ? Iniidae Amazon river dolphin, *Inia geoffrensis*, Global population, 2011: DD, 2018: EN, D Lipotidae Baiji, *Lipotes vexillifer*, Global population, 2008: CR, 2017: CR, D Monodontidae Beluga, *Delphinapterus leucas* Cook Inlet, United States subpopulation, 2012: CR, 2018: CR, D Phocoenidae Harbour porpoise, *Phocoena phocoena* European population, 2007: VU, D Baltic Sea subpopulation, 1996: VU, 2008: CR, D Black Sea harbour porpoise, *Phocoena phocoena *ssp*. relicta*, Global population, 1996: VU, 2008: EN, D Indo-Pacific finless porpoise, *Neophocaena phocaenoides*, Global population, 2012: VU, 2017: VU, D Narrow-ridged finless porpoise, *Neophocaena asiaeorientalis*, Global population, 2012: VU, 2017: EN, D Yangtze finless porpoise, *Neophocaena asiaeorientalis *ssp. *asiaeorientalis*, Global population, 1996: EN, 2012: CR, D Vaquita, *Phocoena sinus*, Global population, 2008: CR, 2017: CR, D Physeteridae Sperm whale, *Physeter macrocephalus*, Global population, 2008: VU, 2019: VU ? European population, 2007: VU, ? Mediterranean population, 2006: EN, D Platanistidae South Asian river dolphin, *Platanista gangetica*, Global population, 2012: EN, 2017: EN, ? Ganges river dolphin, *Platanista gangetica *ssp.* gangetica*, Global population, 1996: EN, 2004: EN, D Indus river dolphin, *Platanista gangetica ssp.** minor*, Global population, 1996: EN, 2004: EN, ? Pontoporiidae Franciscana, *Pontoporia blainvillei*, Global population, 2012: VU, 2017: VU, D Rio Grande do Sul/Uruguay subpopulation, 2003: VU, D Ziphiidae Cuvier’s beaked whale, *Ziphius cavirostris* Mediterranean population, 2012: DD, 2018: VU, D This Statement is supported by the following people: [Provisional list] Lorenzo Rojas-Bracho PhD, Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas (CONANP), Mexico Mark Peter Simmonds OBE, University of Bristol, UK C. Scott Baker PhD, Marine Mammal Institute, Oregon State University, USA Els Vermeulen PhD, University of Pretoria, South Africa Erich Hoyt, co-chair, IUCN SSC/WCPA Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force, UK Giuseppe Notarbartolo di Sciara PhD, co-chair, IUCN Task Force on Marine Mammal Protected Areas, Italy Ellen Hines PhD, San Francisco State University, USA Pedro Fruet PhD, Museu Oceanográfico "Prof. Eliézer de C. Rios", Universidade Federal do Rio Grande-FURG & Kaosa, Brazil. Laetitia Nunny MSc, Wild Animal Welfare, Spain Eduardo R. Secchi PhD, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande-FURG, Brazil Artur Andriolo PhD, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora/ Instituto Aqualie, Brazil Stephanie Plön PhD, Bayworld Centre for Research and Education, South Africa Elisabeth Slooten PhD, University of Otago, New Zealand Alexandre N. Zerbini PhD, Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ecosystem and Ocean Studies, University of Washington & Marine Mammal Laboratory, AFSC/NOAA, USA - Instituto Aqualie, Brazil Mariano A. Coscarella PhD, CESIMAR-CONICET, Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco, Argentina Frank Cipriano PhD, California Academy of Science, USA Juan Pablo Torres-Florez PhD, ICMBio/CMA, Brazil Karen A Stockin PhD, Massey University, New Zealand Olaf Meynecke PhD, Griffith University, Australia Ada Natoli PhD, Zayed University, UAE Dolphin Project, UAE Daren Grover, Project Jonah New Zealand Steve Dawson PhD, University of Otago, New Zealand Silvia Frey PhD, KYMA sea conservation & research, Switzerland Dipani Sutaria, Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Network of India, India Carolina Loch PhD, University of Otago New Zealand Susan Bengtson-Nash, Assoc Professor, Griffith University, Australia Isabel C. Avila PhD, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia Krista Hupman PhD, NIWA, New Zealand Mike Bossley PhD, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, Australia Will Rayment PhD, University of Otago, New Zealand Isabella Clegg PhD, Animal Welfare Expertise, Sydney, Australia Meike Scheidat PhD, Wageningen Marine Research, University of Wageningen, The Netherlands Fabian Ritter, President, MEER e.V., Germany Naomi A. Rose PhD, Animal Welfare Institute, USA Katharina J. Peters PhD, Massey University, New Zealand Emma Betty PhD, Massey University, New Zealand Raphaela Stimmelmayr PhD, University of Alaska Fairbanks, USA. Kerstin Bilgmann PhD, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia Miguel Iñíguez Bessega MSc, Fundación Cethus, Argentina Vanesa Reyes Reyes PhD, Fundación Cethus, Argentina, and Whale and Dolphin Conservation, UK David G Kaplan Esq, Cetacean Society International, USA Claudio Campagna, WCS, Argentina Joan Gonzalvo PhD, Tethys Research Institute, Italy Diego Rodríguez PhD, Mar del Plata University, Argentina Fernando Trujillo PhD, Fundacion Omacha, Colombia and Correspondence Member of the Science Academy of Colombia Danielle Kreb PhD, Yayasan Konservasi RASI, Indonesia George Sangster PhD, Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Netherlands Jolanda Luksenburg PhD, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, The Netherlands Cornelis J. Hazevoet PhD, Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência, Lisbon, Portugal Cristina Milani PhD, Italy Alexander Werth PhD, Hampden-Sydney College, USA Caroline Weir PhD, Ketos Ecology, United Kingdom Colin D. MacLeod PhD, GIS IN Ecology, UK Prof. Giovanni Di Guardo, DVM, Dipl. ECVP, University of Teramo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Italy Robin W. Baird Ph.D., Cascadia Research Collective, USA Jeremy J. Kiszka PhD, Florida International University, Miami, USA Arda M. Tonay PhD, Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Istanbul University / Turkish Marine Research Foundation (TUDAV), Turkey Rebecca M Boys, Massey University, New Zealand Giovanni Bearzi PhD, Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Italy Marta Hevia, Fundación Cethus, Argentina Mariano Sironi PhD, Instituto de Conservación de Ballenas, Argentina Paulo H. Ott PhD, Universidade Estadual do Rio Grande do Sul – Uergs & Grupo de Estudos de Mamíferos Aquáticos do Rio Grande do Sul – GEMARS, Brazil Lindsay Porter PhD, IUCN Species Survival Commission-Cetacean Specialist Group, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Emmanuelle Martinez PhD., NorthTec, New Zealand Lindy Weilgart PhD, Dalhousie University, Canada and OceanCare, Switzerland Beatrice Jann, President Swiss Whale Society SWG, Switzerland Enrico Gennari PhD, Oceans Research Institute, South Africa Simone Panigada PhD, President, Tethys Research Institute Marijke Nita de Boer PhD, University of Wageningen, The Netherlands Maria Jiménez A. MSc, Fundación Conservaré, Colombia Hanna Nuuttila PhD, Swansea University, UK Meredith Thornton, University of Pretoria, South Africa Michael Stachowitsch PhD, University of Vienna, Austria Joan Giménez PhD, University College Cork, Ireland Draško Holcer PhD, Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation, Croatia Liliane Lodi PhD, Instituto Mar Adentro, Brazil Sarah Dolman MSc, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, UK Pablo Denuncio PhD, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata / CONICET, Argentina Patricia Burkhardt-Holm Dr. rer.nat., Professor of Ecology, University of Basel, Switzerland Patrick Lyne C.Mar.Sci., IWDG, DMAD, MMOA, Ireland Paulo C. Simões-Lopes, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Aquatic Mammals Lab (LAMAQ) BrazilSharon Young MSc, Humane Society of the United States, USA Janet Mann PhD, Georgetown University, USA Leonardo L. Wedekin PhD, Socioambiental Consultores Associados, Brazil Lars Bejder PhD, University of Hawaii at Manoa, USA Milton Marcondes DVM, Research Coordinator – Humpback Whale Institute, Brazil. Mauricio Cantor PhD, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina & Max Planck Institute of Animal Behaviour, Brazil Peter Mackelworth PhD, Blue World Institute, Croatia Hal Whitehead PhD, Dalhousie University, Canada Ida Carlén, Coalition Clean Baltic, Sweden Nicola Hodgins, Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) & University of Exeter, UK Ignacio Benites Moreno PhD, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil Monique Pool, Green Heritage Fund Suriname, Suriname Marina Costa PhD, Tethys Research Institute, Italy Simon Elwen PhD, Sea Search Research and Conservation, Stellenbosch University, South Africa Tess Gridley PhD, Sea Search Research and Conservation, Stellenbosch University, South Africa Randall Reeves, chair, IUCN/SSC Cetacean Specialist Group, Canada Bill Fulton BSc Dip Aut Comp, Living Ocean Inc, Australia Camila Domit PhD, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Paraná, Brazil Jose David Palacios Alfaro Lic, Fundación Keto, Costa Rica Gianni Pavan, University of Pavia, Italy Suwat Jutapruet PhD, Prince of Songkla University, Surat Thani Campus, Thailand Denise Risch PhD, Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), Scotland, UK Anoukchika D Ilangakoon MSc, IUCN SSC - Cetacean Specialist Group, Sri Lanka Gianna Minton PhD, Megaptera Marine Conservation, The Netherlands Fredrik Christiansen PhD, Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Denmark R. Ewan Fordyce, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand Vic Cockcroft PhD, Nelson Mandela University. South Africa. Graham John Pierce, Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas (CSIC), Spain Manuel E. dos Santos PhD, MARE-ISPA, Portugal Shane Gero PhD, Dalhousie University, Aarhus University, and The Dominica Sperm Whale Project, Canada/Dominica David Gruber PhD, City University of New York, USA Michael J. Tetley PhD, IMMA Coordinator, IUCN SSC/WCPA Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force, UK Frants H. Jensen PhD, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, USA Robert Wood PhD, Harvard University, USA Florent Nicolas, Groupe d´Etude des Cétacés du Cotentin, France Nicholas Tregenza DCH, University of Exeter, UK. Anastasia Miliou, Scientific Director, Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation, Greece Sandra Hörbst MSc, Gansbaai South Africa Steven Benjamins PhD, Scottish Association for Marine Science, UK Trish Franklin PhD, The Oceania Project and Southern Cross University, Australia Wally Franklin, PhD, The Oceania Project and Southern Cross University, Australia Kevin Robinson PhD Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit, Scotland Jimena Belgrano, Fundación Cethus, Argentina Jörn Selling, firmm.org, Spain Caterina Fortuna PhD, National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (Italy) Isabel García-Barón PhD, Institution: AZTI, Spain Natacha Aguilar de Soto PhD, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain Jean-Luc Jung PhD, HDR, ISYEB, UMR 7205, Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, et Université de Brest, France Gill Braulik PhD, University of St. Andrews, UK Mario Acquarone PhD, Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme, Norway Peter Corkeron PhD, Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, USA Alana Alexander PhD, University of Otago, New Zealand Rochelle Constantine PhD, University of Auckland | Te Whare Wananga o Tāmaki Makaurau, New Zealand Laura J May-Collado PhD, Smithsonian Research Tropical Institute,Panama and CIMAR-Universidad de Costa Rica Astrid Frisch Jordán, Ecología y Conservación de Ballenas (ECOBAC), México Krishna Das PhD, University of Liège, Belgium Thibaut Bouveroux PhD, University of South Alabama, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Alabama, USA Philippa Brakes, Research Fellow, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, New Zealand Ursula K. Verfuss PhD, SMRU Consulting, UK Marta Azzolin PhD, University of Torino and Gaia Research Institute Onlus, Italy Maša Frleta - Valić, Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation, Croatia Michael Stocker, Director, Ocean Conservation Research, California, USA Natacha Aguilar de Soto, PhD, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain Paola Tepsich PhD, CIMA Research Foundation, Italy Weerapong Laovechprasit DVM Thailand Fulbright Fellow, University of Georgia, Thailand Emma Carroll PhD, Te Whare Wānanga o Tāmaki Makaurau University of Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand Alexandros Frantzis PhD, Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute, Greece Javier Almunia PhD, Loro Parque Fundación, Spain Katrina Johnson, Bates College, USA Sarah Dwyer PhD, Far Out Ocean Research Collective, New Zealand Rodrigo García Píngaro, Organization for Cetacean Conservation of Uruguay, Uruguay Andrew Stanworth PhD, Falklands Conservation, Falkland Islands Helena Herr PhD, University of Hamburg, Germany ----- Dr Els Vermeulen - Research Manager Mammal Research Institute Whale Unit Department of Zoology and Entomology University of Pretoria, South Africa Office: Shop 11 Astoria Village, Main Road, Hermanus 7200 Cell: +27 (0)60 9714301 www.mammalresearchinstitute.science/whale-unit www.adoptawhale.co.za

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Behayve: an iPhone app integrating the recording of animal behaviors, tracks and environment, with real-time visualization
by LivingOcean Bill Fulton 28 Aug '20

28 Aug '20

The Behayve app for iPhone, supporting animal behavior studies in the field and first shown at the World Marine Mammal Conference last December, is available free of charge in the App Store following beta testing by a number of conference attendees and others. A range of suggestions from testers have been incorporated. Behayve is currently in use for conservation biology studies of lake resident Tursiops australis. Originally developed for Living Ocean’s ongoing longitudinal study of the influence of vessel presence and bottom topography on humpback whales migrating past Sydney, Australia, it has been generalized to cater for a wide range of studies of marine, terrestrial and avian species and to provide a simplified point-and-shoot method for aerial and ship based surveys. The app is particularly suitable for non-invasive studies of cetaceans, pinnipeds and sirenians within a limited geographic range, without being limited to that. Flexibility is provided to capture not only behaviors and positions, but multiple roles and modifiers as well. The convenience of a smartphone lends itself to use in small boats, kayaks and other cramped locations. For example, even in a kayak a wireless feed from a small fishfinder allows continuous logging of water depth and temperature. A predictive function can help relocate submerged cetaceans. The full user guide is at behayve.com and a video at behayve.com/barcelona. An outline of the main features follows. Behayve integrates the recording of animal behaviors, tracks and surrounding environment, offering insight as you go by displaying real-time maps of tracks and the exact positions where behaviors occur. With or without Internet or GPS, the app determines precise animal positions on the fly, non-invasively, using compass bearing and range in conjunction with GPS or grid map. CONFIGURABLE Behayve is designed to support a wide range of studies. You can define your own ethogram, behavior groupings, roles, modifiers, data items, species and more. SAMPLING MODES Choose from focal, scan, behavior or ad-lib sampling, or run them all at once. The implementation is based on Observational Study of Behavior by Jeanne Altmann. ROLES AND MODIFIERS Multiple roles and multiple modifiers may be configured for any behavior. Behaviors may be instantaneous events or continuous states. A collection of states may be configured to be mutually exclusive. INSIGHT While observing, you can gain additional insight by viewing a terrain map of action to date, pinpointing the exact location of behaviors and tracks. Tap on an observation to pop up its associated timestamped data. REVIEW AND CORRECTION At any time during observations, or later, you can rapidly review and alter your recorded observations, including your voice notes or comments. Calculated data such as latitude/longitude are adjusted appropriately. COLLABORATION AND CITIZEN SCIENCE Behayve facilitates data sharing between team members, be they colleagues or citizen scientists. A merge function allows onboarding of data from team members at the same or different locations. Your distributed configuration can be locked down to prevent modification. GIS INTEGRATION With no effort, transfer any amount of observational data to GIS systems such as ArcGIS, QGIS and KML-based systems like Google Earth, preserving its structure: this can be a significant labor saver. View 2D or 3D tracks and behaviors. Click on an observation to display its associated data. Spreadsheet export is also provided. Clickable icons for photos can be automatically placed at the position they were taken, even from cameras without GPS. RELIABILITY Data is retained in a reliable onboard database immune from power failure and other glitches. Structured data can be exported to the safety of the cloud, or to a laptop, and the entire database can be backed up to the cloud or laptop. In using prerelease versions over four years in a Living Ocean humpback whale study, we have never lost data. CODING CONVENIENCE Behayve is intuitive and straightforward to use. Its pocket size is a winner. Automated features make data recording easy, fast and reliable. For example, to record compass bearing and elevation angle, simply position an animal in the crosshairs, or enter manually. To record range, just point and shoot a handheld wireless rangefinder or enter manually. AERIAL SURVEY OR THEODOLITE Choose from terrestrial, marine or aerial operating modes: Roving 2D, Roving 3D, Theodolite or Aerial. For aerial surveys, simply position an animal in the crosshairs and Behayve records its latitude and longitude. Or enter bearing and azimuth manually. GNSS AND DIFFERENTIAL GPS Via wireless connections, achieve sub-meter positioning accuracy using handheld or fixed units such as the Arrow 100, sensed automatically by Behayve. Or simply rely on the built-in GPS hardware in the iPhone. With GNSS devices, improve positioning accuracy under canopy, harnessing the combined forces of GPS, Glonass, Galileo, Beidou and other satellite constellations. HOOK UP YOUR GEAR At sea, continuously log water temperature and depth from a ship chartplotter, wirelessly. We are happy to discuss wireless connection of your own unique devices. With best wishes Bill Fulton Living Ocean Sydney, Australia livingocean.org.au support(a)behayve.com<mailto:support@behayve.com >

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Mote Marine Laboratory, Manatee Research Program Internship
by Christina Nau 28 Aug '20

28 Aug '20

*Mote Marine Laboratory* *Manatee Research Program Internships * ** *Program Description* The Manatee Research Program studiesseveral aspects of the biology of manatees inhabiting the waters of southwestern Florida, including population dynamics, population genetics, habitat use, distributional patterns and social behavior. Field data and samples are collected using photo-identification, aerial surveys, and non-invasive genetic sampling. >From spring through early fall, photo-identification, genetic, and behavioral sampling are conducted primarily in Sarasota and Manatee counties.During the winter, field work is conducted primarily in Charlotte Harbor and the Ft. Myers area.Aerial surveys are conducted twice per month (during the non-winter) in Sarasota County to assess relative abundance and distribution of manatees in those waters.The long-term database of the program contributes to management and conservation measurements for Florida manatees. Additionally, the program collaborates with manatee researchers throughout the state of Florida and the Caribbean.For more information about, please visit: https://mote.org/research/program/manatee-research. *WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING INTERNS TO BEGIN IN**January 2021**, WITH APPLICATIONS DUE BY **October 1st 2020**.* *Internship Description* Internships are available during all four seasons and must be a MINIMUM of 12 weeks.Hours are typically Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, although some longer days may be required for field work (especially during the winter season). Interns should expect to spend about 20% of their time in the field and about 80% of their time in the office/lab.Field work duties include assisting with data collection, boat handling, and equipment use and maintenance.Field work requires spending long hours in the field, sometimes in uncomfortable weather conditions.Office/Lab duties include data entry, processing, matching images to known animals, equipment maintenance, and miscellaneous tasks and errands. There is no financial compensation for these internship positions, and successful applicants will be responsible for their own living and transportation expenses. Shared housing opportunities near Mote Marine Laboratory may be available. A few scholarships may be available from Mote Marine Laboratory through a competitive application process (US citizens only). *Required Qualifications* * Minimum of 18 years of age and engaged in or recently completed undergraduate studies * A background or degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology, or a related field is preferred * Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel and Access); previous experience using ArcMap GIS is a plus but not required * Excellent communication skills; fluent in English * Must be physically able to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy objects * Knowledge of photography/SLR camera use and/or drawing skills are a plus * Desire and willingness to acquire knowledge and skills related to marine mammal field work and capable of working well as a team *To apply for a Manatee Research Program internship:* * Fill out an application form at Mote Marine Laboratory’s website (https://mote.org/research/internships/college-internship-program-overview) and be sure to select “Manatee Research Program” as your first choice * Complete and provide to Mote’s intern office all other application materials including: a statement of interest, current college transcript, letter of recommendation, and /curriculum vitae /(incomplete applications will not be considered) Applicants may contact the Manatee Research Program’s intern coordinator, Christina Nau, (cnau(a)mote.org <mailto:cnau@mote.org>) with questions regarding the internship. -- Christina Nau Manatee Research Program Mote Marine Laboratory 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway Sarasota FL 34236 Phone: (941) 388-4441 ext. 471 cnau(a)mote.org

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New publication: Mark–recapture of individually distinctive calls
by Emma Longden 27 Aug '20

27 Aug '20

Dear all, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following research in the Journal of Mammalogy: Mark–recapture of individually distinctive calls—a case study with signature whistles of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) Authors: Emma G Longden, Simon H Elwen, Barry McGovern, Bridget S James, Clare B Embling, Tess Gridley DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/jmammal/gyaa081 This is an output of research conducted by the Sea Search group and the associated Namibian Dolphin Project. Abstract: Robust abundance estimates of wild animal populations are needed to inform management policies and are often obtained through mark–recapture (MR) studies. Visual methods are commonly used, which limits data collection to daylight hours and good weather conditions. Passive acoustic monitoring offers an alternative, particularly if acoustic cues are naturally produced and individually distinctive. Here we investigate the potential of using individually distinctive signature whistles in a MR framework and evaluate different components of study design. We analyzed signature whistles of common bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, using data collected from static acoustic monitoring devices deployed in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Signature whistle types (SWTs) were identified using a bout analysis approach (SIGnature IDentification [SIGID]—Janik et al. 2013). We investigated spatial variation in capture by comparing 21 synchronized recording days across four sites, and temporal variation from 125 recording days at one high-use site (Aphrodite Beach). Despite dolphin vocalizations (i.e., echolocation clicks) being detected at each site, SWTs were not detected at all sites and there was high variability in capture rates among sites where SWTs were detected (range 0–21 SWTs detected). At Aphrodite Beach, 53 SWTs were captured over 6 months and discovery curves showed an initial increase in newly detected SWTs, approaching asymptote during the fourth month. A Huggins closed capture model constructed from SWT capture histories at Aphrodite Beach estimated a population of 54–68 individuals from acoustic detection, which overlaps with the known population size (54–76 individuals—Elwen et al. 2019). This study demonstrates the potential power of using signature whistles as proxies for individual occurrence and in MR abundance estimation, but also highlights challenges in using this approach. Kind regards, Emma Longden emmaglongden(a)gmail.com

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New publication on the health of cetaceans off La Gomera (Canary Islands)
by Fabian Ritter; MEER e.V. 27 Aug '20

27 Aug '20

Dear fellow MARMAMers, on behalf of the authors I am happy to inform you about the recent publication of a new paper on the health of cetaceans off the island of La Gomera (Canary Islands): External Body Conditions in Cetaceans from La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain Gratia Kautek, Marie-Francoise Van Bressem, and Fabian Ritter /Journal of Marine Animals and Their Ecology, Volume 11, Issue 2, 2019/ Abstract: We report on externally visible pathological and natural conditions in free-ranging cetaceans off La Gomera, Canary Islands, in the period 1995-2018. Photographic records of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus), rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis), common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Cuviers beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris), Blainsvilles beaked whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) and Brydes whales (Balaenoptera edeni) were screened for the presence of pathological and natural body conditions. External conditions were classified according to their characteristics. A total of 279 individuals were found presenting skin disorders, injuries, emaciation, deformations or parasitism. Epidermal conditions including tattoo skin disease, focal skin disease, cutaneous nodules, pale skin patches and abnormal pigmentation were detected in 76 delphinids and seemed common in T. truncatus. Cases of emaciation were observed in 25 T. truncatus and in one G. macrorhynchus in 2010 and 2014. The dorsal fin of 76 dolphins and whales was bent, collapsed, injured or amputated. Traumata of possible anthropogenic origin affected the dorsal fin, tailstock and head of 24 delphinids and two B. edeni. The obligate cetacean barnacle Xenobalanus globicipitis infested 23 individuals of five species. Scars and wounds attributed to Petromyzon marinus and Isistius sp. occurred in most species, including B. edeni. Lesions possibly caused by Pennella balaenoptera were seen in two T. truncatus and one Z. cavirostris. This study provides a preliminary insight into externally visible skin disorders, traumata, body conditions and parasites occurring in cetaceans south of La Gomera, Canary Islands. [JMATE 2019;11(2):4-17] Keywords: cetaceans, skin disease, body condition, injuries, epizoa The paper is freely available at: http://www.oers.ca/journal/volume11/issue2/scientific.pdf Best greetings, Fabian --

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MMO vacancy in Wales, UK
by Recruitment 27 Aug '20

27 Aug '20

Dear MMOs, OSC has a vacancy for 1 x MMO on a piling project in Swansea (Wales, UK), working Monday to Friday for an estimated duration of 6 weeks in September and October. Exact dates are still to be confirmed. This vacancy is suitable for UK and EU citizens only, or overseas candidates already in possession of requisite visas for working within the UK and EU; however, the preference for a locally-based MMO, so that accommodation costs can be avoided. If you have not worked for OSC previously or recently, we will require scans/copies of your CV, passport, degree certificate(s), MMO and PAM, survival and medical. Please ensure that your CV includes a current phone number, contact email address and postal address. Applications should only be sent to the following email address: recruitment(a)osc.co.uk<mailto:recruitment@osc.co.uk> Kind regards, -- Recruitment Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR, Scotland, UK T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk<http://www.osc.co.uk/>

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