July 2021 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Population genomic structure of Australasian killer whales
by Isabella Reeves 23 Jul '21

23 Jul '21

Hi all, On behalf of all co-authors, I am pleased to announce the publication of our manuscript titled "Population genomic structure of killer whales (Orcinus orca) in Australian and New Zealand waters" in Marine Mammal Science. Abstract: Population genomic data sets have enhanced power to detect cryptic and complex population structure and generate valuable information for the conservation and management of wildlife species. Globally, killer whales (Orcinus orca) are considered to have a complex population structure due to their ability to specialize in a variety of ecological niches. In the Australasian region, they are found year round in New Zealand waters and are sighted in all Australian waters, with seasonal aggregations in the northwest (NWA) and southwest (SWA). Regionally, there is some knowledge regarding killer whale abundance, diet, acoustics, and social structure, but limited information about their population structure. Here, we present a population structure assessment of Australasian killer whales using 17,491 high quality genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), combined with sequences of the mitochondrial DNA control region. The results indicate a minimum of three populations: New Zealand, NWA, and SWA. These populations present moderate levels of genomic diversity, negligible levels of inbreeding, small effective population sizes, and low contemporary migration rates among them. Mitochondrial DNA analysis elucidated five closely related haplotypes, suggestive of matrilineal societies, consistent with killer whales elsewhere. This information will assist conservation management of killer whales in the Australasian region. For details please see, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12851. Kind regards, Isabella Isabella Reeves PhD student BSc Marine Biology (Hons.) Cetacean Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab (CEBEL<http://www.cebel.org.au>) Molecular Ecology Lab (MELFU<http://www.molecularecology.flinders.edu.au>) College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University Email<mailto:isabella.reeves@flinders.edu.au> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/bellaa_reeves> | LinkedIn<https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabella-reeves-60142b175/>

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Recent publications on marine mammals in the journal of Integrative Zoology
by songhai 22 Jul '21

22 Jul '21

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Fall Semester Internship Opportunity Available with Hawaii Marine Animal Response
by marisa.goin＠h-mar.org 22 Jul '21

22 Jul '21

JOIN OUR FIELD RESPONSE TEAM on the beautiful island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii. We are accepting applications for interns for our Fall 2021 internship period. The deadline is July 31, however, applications will be reviewed as they come in, and positions will be assigned as responses are received so apply soon. Here is more detail about this opportunity. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Hawaii Marine Animal Response (HMAR) is the field operations arm of Hawaii Marine Mammal Alliance Inc. and is the largest Hawaii-based non-profit marine species conservation and response organization. We cover nearly 300 miles of coastline on the islands of Oahu and Molokai with our team of volunteers, interns and staff. We are a U.S. based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, conservation and stewardship of Hawaii's protected marine species and our ocean ecosystem. We focus our work on marine species whose natural behaviors and habitat put animals in close proximity to and are therefore most affected by human impacts. These species include the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, the threatened green sea turtle, the endangered hawksbill sea turtle and several vulnerable seabird species. HMAR is supported by private donations, corporate funding and government grants and operates under partnerships with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the State of Hawaii and others. More information about HMAR is available at http://h-mar.org. FIELD OUTREACH AND SUPPORT (FSO) TEAM INTERN DUTIES: -Responding to sightings of endangered or threatened marine species such as Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles to provide shoreline response to haul-outs and strandings. -Perform or assist in field escalations, interventions, stranding support and rescues. -Report on animal behavior, provide animal assessment information, provide photo-documentation and other important data used in protected marine species research, health management and species recovery efforts. -Perform outreach to the public to teach sustainable human interaction and fishery behaviors and encourage stewardship of protected marine species and the ocean ecosystem. -Participate in dispatch and reporting activity such as the taking and documenting phone call reports of marine species activity, coordinating field response activity, data entry and generating reports. LOCATION: These positions require on-island travel throughout the island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii. FIELD SUPPORT AND OUTREACH (FSO) INTERN GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: -This is an un-paid internship that requires the intern to live on the island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii for the period beginning 2 weeks prior to the start of the internship until the end of the internship. The intern is responsible for all lodging, living and transportation costs associated with the internship. -U.S. citizenship or possession of a passport and all applicable visas and work permits are needed prior to and during the internship period. -18 or more years of age. -English language fluency. -Must be a degree-seeking student or a graduate of a college or university program associated with one of the following courses of study: marine biology, marine ecology, conservation, environmental science or a related field. -Minimum grade point average (GPA). For college/university graduates, a 2.7 cumulative GPA prior to the internship. For current students, a 2.7 cumulative GPA prior to and during the internship. -If college credit for this internship is desired it is the responsibility of the intern to obtain necessary approvals from the applicable college or university. -Ability to walk in sandy, rocky and unstable shoreline conditions for 2 miles. - Ability to work outdoors in a sunny, rainy, windy and hot climate. -Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 75 pounds for 100 feet in shoreline beach and rocky conditions. -Ability to swim required. -Ability to maintain a calm demeanor in potentially stressful conditions. -Possess a team-based work ethic and attitude. -Acceptance of our Intern Policies, Waivers, Releases and Indemnifications agreement. -Attend mandatory in-field or classroom training sessions as required. - Possess an interest in and a desire to engage with the public. - Must have access to a reliable car or truck (truck preferred) during the internship period. Motorcycles or scooters will not be sufficient. -Possession of a valid driver's license. -Proof of automobile insurance carrying Hawaii minimum liability coverage levels. -Access to a cellular phone with 4G data service and camera. -Access to a digital camera (not a smartphone) with at least a 35X zoom lens and Wi-Fi capability. If it does not have wifi capability, you can buy an adapter. FIELD SUPPORT AND OUTREACH INTERNSHIP ACTIVITY EXPECTATIONS: - Internship term: Minimum of 3 months (may be extended for up to 1 year upon mutual agreement). Start date for 3-month minimum internship is somewhat flexible, but must be between September 15th and November 30th, 2020. Interns must be on Oahu, settled and ready to begin training at least 2 weeks prior to the internship start date. -Hours per week: 25 hours minimum, however, due to the unpredictable nature of marine animal response, the intern may sometimes be required to work beyond, or outside of, their normal scheduled hours. Work hours flexibility is required. Travel time to and from training and field response locations is not included in these minimum hours. The intern must be able and willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays. -The intern must be available for response anywhere on the Island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii. FIELD SUPPORT AND OUTREACH INTERNSHIP DEADLINE AND APPLICATION PROCESS: The deadline for Fall 2021 internships is July 31, 2021, however, applications will be reviewed as they come in and internship positions will be assigned as they are received so apply soon. You can find more information about the internship at https://h-mar.org/jointheteam/. To apply, please go to http://h-mar.org/application and complete the online application. The online application must include the following: A cover letter of interest, maximum of 1 page, including your dates of availability. Confirmation that you have, or will have, access to a reliable car or truck during the internship period (truck preferred). A resume describing your training, experience, and relevant skills (maximum of 2 pages). Names and contact information for three references. Your application cannot be considered unless both the online application and the required documents listed above are received. We look forward to receiving your application and thank you for your interest in Hawaii Marine Animal Response (HMAR). Mahalo Nui Loa, Marisa Goin Field Support & Outreach Lead Internship Coordinator Hawaii Marine Animal Response marisa.goin(a)h-mar.org Direct: (808) 225-1228 Sighting Hotline: (888) 256-9840

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Research Biologist/Research Mathematical Statistician - job announcement opening 7/30
by Jenny Litz - NOAA Federal 22 Jul '21

22 Jul '21

The NOAA Southeast Fisheries Science Center Marine Mammal Branch will be hiring an Interdisciplinary Research Biologist/Research Mathematical Statistician, ZP-0401/1529-3/4 position. The link to the announcement is below and it will be open for (14) days, from *7/30/21 to 8/12/21*. *NMFS-SEFSC-2021-0022: *https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/608414800 Please distribute this announcement widely among interested colleagues. Thank you ! Jenny Litz, PhD <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/contact/jenny-litz-phd> Chief, Marine Mammal Branch <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/contact-directory/marine-mammal-researchers-…> NOAA Fisheries, SEFSC 75 Virginia Beach Drive Miami, FL 33149 jenny.litz(a)noaa.gov <email(a)noaa.gov> 305.361.4224 305.582.0371 (cell) www.nmfs.noaa.gov

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Recent Publication on Congenital diseases in harbor seals
by Erin D'agnese 21 Jul '21

21 Jul '21

On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to share our new short communication which has recently been published in the Journal of Wildlife Diseases. Congenital Diseases in Harbor Seals (*Phoca vitulina richardsii*) from the Salish Sea Erin R. D’Agnese, Dyanna M. Lambourn, Jennifer K. Olson, Jessica L. Huggins, Stephen Raverty, Michael M. Garner, John Calambokidis, Alyssa A. Scott, Steven J. Jeffries, and Joseph K. Gaydos ABSTRACT: Postmortem data for harbor seals (*Phoca vitulina richardsii*) in the Salish Sea were analyzed for epidemiological trends in congenital diseases. Cleft palate and/or cleft lips (n=8) and cardiac defects (n=5), were the most common congenital abnormalities, followed by cases with multiple defects (n=4). There were no temporal trends or spatial clusters of cases seen from 2003 to 2019, during which time monitoring effort was consistent. Cases could not be linked to specific causes such as environmental contamination or maternal malnutrition. Our study suggests that a yearly prevalence of 2.9% ±2.2 is the endemic level of congenital disease in this stable harbor seal population. Continued monitoring of birth defects and overall harbor seal population status could help to identify emerging teratogens. This paper is available through open access and can be accessed at: https://doi.org/10.7589/JWD-D-20-00179 Thank you, Erin D'Agnese -- Sincerely, Erin D'Agnese, PhD (she/her/hers) Postdoctoral Scholar, UW School of Marine and Environmental Affairs Seattle, WA dagnese(a)uw.edu

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RESEARCH ARTICLE: In-stream habitat availability for river dolphins in response to flow: Use of ecological integrity to manage river flows
by Shambhu Paudel 21 Jul '21

21 Jul '21

In-stream habitat availability for river dolphins in response to flow: Use of ecological integrity to manage river flows Abstract: Population decline and extinction risk of river dolphins are primarily associated with flow alteration. Previous studies predominantly highlighted maintenance of adequate flow for low water seasons when habitats contract and the risk of local extinction escalates. Although river dolphins are sensitive to reduction in river flow, no studies quantify the relationships between flow and ecology of river dolphins to mitigate the potential adverse impacts of flow alteration. We quantify the relationships between flow and the ecology of river cetaceans concerning Ganges River dolphins (GRD; *Platanista gangetica gangetica*) usable area availability (AWS) for the low water season at wider flows (50–575 m3/s) at finer spatial and temporal scales. This study reveals that distribution of area usable to GRD is highly regulated by the adequate flow and river attributes (velocity and depth) interactions that likely offer energetically efficient modes of locomotion to GRD, suggesting the hydro-physical environment as a major determinant of river dolphin distribution and abundance. Flow and AWS relationships indicate that the flow during the dry season negatively contributed to AWS, whereas that of pre-monsoon maximized the AWS, suggesting that modifying flow regimes does alter in-stream habitats at varying spatial scales and may influence life-history strategies. Substantial fragmentation in suitable pool availability and loss of longitudinal connectivity exhibited by dry season flow suggested a higher risk of adverse biological effects during the dry season, which may reduce population viability by reducing survivorship and reproduction failure. Owing to river dolphins’ dependence on the attribute of freshwater flow, they can be expected to be more affected by flow regulations as interactive effects. Considering the seasonal effects and changes in the availability of usable areas by flow alteration, adopting effective habitat retention plans by water-based development projects appears critical to avoid further ecological risks in aquatic species conservation. Identifying priority riverscapes for river cetaceans and prioritizing investment opportunities is an essential first step towards effective riverine cetacean conservation. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0241099 *Shambhu Paudel, PhD* University of Arizona, USA

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New Publication: pygmy sperm whale cervical gland gross and histologic morphology
by Keenan, Tiffany Fay 21 Jul '21

21 Jul '21

Dear Colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to share a new paper that has recently been published on the Gross and histological morphology of the cervical gill slit gland of the pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps). Abstract Odontocete cetaceans have undergone profound modifications to their integument and sensory systems and are generally thought to lack specialized exocrine glands that in terrestrial mammals function to produce chemical signals (Thewissen & Nummela, 2008). Keenan-Bateman et al. (2016, 2018), though, introduced an enigmatic exocrine gland, associated with the false gill slit pigmentation pattern in Kogia breviceps. These authors provided a preliminary description of this cervical gill slit gland in their helminthological studies of the parasitic nematode, Crassicauda magna. This study offers the first detailed gross and histological description of this gland and reports upon key differences between immature and mature individuals. Investigation reveals it is a complex, compound tubuloalveolar gland with a well-defined duct that leads to a large, and expandable central chamber, which in turn leads to two caudally projecting diverticula. All regions of the gland contain branched tubular and alveolar secretory regions, although most are found in the caudal diverticula, where the secretory process is holocrine. The gland lies between slips of cutaneous muscle, and is innervated by lamellar corpuscles, resembling Pacinian's corpuscles, suggesting that its secretory product may be actively expressed into the environment. Mature K. breviceps display larger gland size, and increased functional activity in glandular tissues, as compared to immature individuals. These results demonstrate that the cervical gill slit gland of K. breviceps shares morphological features of the specialized, chemical signaling, exocrine glands of terrestrial members of the Cetartiodactyla. A full-text, read-only version of the article can be accessed through the following link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/author/6MFTM5CYNKSFI5NXHTCP?target=10… If interested in a PDF copy of the article, please e-mail tfk9187(a)uncw.edu. Kindest regards, Tiffany Keenan

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Quantitative Modeler
by Emma Dvorak 21 Jul '21

21 Jul '21

Integrated Statistics is looking for a Quantitative Modeler to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC). This position will support the Protected Species Branch (PSB) of NOAA NMFS NEFSC. PSB’s mission includes assessing the population status of protected species (cetaceans, sea turtles, seabirds, and seals) within U.S. waters, and evaluating threats to species and populations due to anthropogenic activities. Detailed assessments of species distributions and abundances are essential to understand broad scale spatial and temporal movements and behaviors. For risk assessment and mitigation of impacts, information on seasonal and inter-annual variability in distribution, ecology, and behavior at smaller spatial scales is used to estimate potential impacts on protected species due to localized activities (e.g., fishery bycatch, military exercises, energy exploration, shipping traffic, etc.). The Quantitative Modeler will work on a project modeling spatial analysis of large whales, primarily the North Atlantic right whale, relative to fishing gear and aquaculture. The modeler will continue development on an existing software product, coded in R, to expand its capabilities and support its use by stakeholders and policymakers. *Duties* The Quantitative Modeler will take responsibility for these tasks: * Expand the current model to: include other whale species; include multiple gear types; update and/or expand whale habitat layers; and expand the geographical scope throughout US waters. * Provide modeling support to GARFO Protected Resources Division. * Collaborate with NEFSC staff on related economic analyses, as needed. * Collaborate with aquaculture entanglement working group. * Improve the gear threat model by expanding it to gather external data (such as entanglement of other species and location) and to work in collaboration with other organizations. * Continue to develop the current R shiny application. * Collaborate as part of a development team to divide tasks and manage group workflows. *Qualifications* The Quantitative Modeler should possess these qualifications and skills: * A Master's degree in Quantitative Ecology, Fisheries, Environmental Management, or a closely related biological subject that involves spatial manipulation and analysis of multivariate data streams. Work experience may potentially be substituted. * At least five (5) years of extensive experience working with and knowledge of: o Statistical analyses using generalized linear or additive models o Bayesian hierarchical models o Development of species distribution models o Computer programming experience to create simulated object or animal distribution data o Commercial fishery observer data. * Excellent programming skills in at least one of the following platforms of statistical software: R, Splus, SAS, AD Model Builder, Template Model Builder, or C++. * Experience and understanding of basic statistical methods. * Excellent communication skills both verbally and using written materials (including visual presentations), targeting a variety of audiences including technical, scientific, and the general public, as appropriate. * Independent worker with strong time management skills and attention to detail. Track record of successful telework. * Able to adapt quickly to changing priorities and strict timelines. The Quantitative Modeler must have the ability to work legally for any employer in the United States. The position is expected to last one year. The rate of pay will be dependent on skills and experience, and the position will be eligible for the benefits described on the Integrated Statistics website. The position will begin with a period of remote work. To apply for this position, go to https://jobs.intstats.com/JobDetails.jsp?jobListingId=283 or visit www.integratedstatistics.com, click Employment Opportunities, click the job name and click the Apply Here link. Integrated Statistics is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any classification protected by federal, state, or local law. Consistent with its obligations under federal law, Integrated Statistics is committed to taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified women, minorities, disabled individuals, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and other eligible veterans. For assistance with accessibility of applications, posters, forms, and/or documents, please email the Integrated Statistics office. -- Integrated Statistics, Inc. 16 Sumner Street Woods Hole, MA 02543 Cell: (508) 648-8308 Office: (508) 540-8560 Fax: (508) 721-6841

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Marine Mammal Science Masters Degree - University of Miami
by University of Miami RSMAS 21 Jul '21

21 Jul '21

We wanted to let you know that apps are now open for the Master of Professional Science degree at the University of Miami for Fall 2022 in 14 different tracks including Marine Mammal Science (PhD and MS apps will open August 15th for Fall 2022 – check this link for a list of assistantships as they come in: https://graduate.rsmas.miami.edu/admissions/phd-assistanships/index.html) Our Master of Professional Science degree (take the many of the same courses as Ph.D. and MS students, but instead of a thesis/dissertation, you do an internship/research in the field with organizations such as NOAA, NPS, NGOs, etc. and 94% of students have a job in the field 6 months after graduation) has rolling admission until June for international students and July for domestic, but this track will fill up before December. *We are also waiving the GRE for Fall 2022 and beyond* (tuition waivers will be based on GPA only). Info on our marine mammal science track can be found here: Marine Mammal Science <https://mps.rsmas.miami.edu/degree-tracks/marine-mammal-science/index.html> Spring 2021 Open House Recording from April 9, 2021: https://miami.zoom.us/rec/share/b9s0LewHu75UDlGlCsNSBLNVxYyvudRpV7orS1SK4Bw… 1 on 1 information session sign-up for PhD, MS, MPS (with current PhD, past MPS student, or myself): https://graduate.rsmas.miami.edu/admissions/tour-request/index.html Virtual Tour of campus: https://www.rsmas.miami.edu/about-us/virtual-tour/index.html Applications can be found here: https://www.applyweb.com/miamigrd/index.ftl <https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apply…> Alumni Profiles: https://mps.rsmas.miami.edu/prospective-students/alumni-profiles/index.html Class Schedules Spring 2021 (all degree programs): https://graduate.rsmas.miami.edu/_assets/pdf/course-schedules/spring-2021-s… Class Schedules Fall 2021 (all degree programs): https://graduate.rsmas.miami.edu/_assets/pdf/course-schedules/fall-2021-sch… Internships/jobs of students: https://mps.rsmas.miami.edu/prospective-students/alumni-careers/index.html In an effort to support the University's diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, the Rosenstiel School’s Master of Professional Science is offering 4 Rosenstiel Opportunity Scholarships of 24-credits each (allowing a student to earn the last 6 credits through merit-based waivers) by providing scholarships for high achieving students from historically underserved or underrepresented populations and/or socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds who are entering graduate school at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. Any questions, please ask! I'm more than willing to facetime, Skype, Zoom, Text (561-460-1019), or just chat on the phone to help you out. Excited to chat with you all about the programs!!! Sincerely, Josh Coco, Ed. D. Assistant Dean, Rosenstiel School Tel: (305) 421.4002 Fax: (305) 421.4711 Direct: jcoco(a)rsmas.miami.edu University of Miami RSMAS Campus – 105C 4600 Rickenbacker Causeway Miami, FL 33149-1031

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UK Marine Mammal Advisor post - vacancies at Joint Nature Conservation Committee
by Farah Chaudry 21 Jul '21

21 Jul '21

Dear MarMam subscribers, Apologies for duplicate posting...but please note that the below job vacancy deadline has now been extended for an additional week - closing date for applications is now Sunday 1st August 2021. Best wishes, Farah Chaudry (on behalf of Declan Tobin) Hi all, I would like to shamelessly plug two Senior Marine Mammal Adviser posts currently being advertised at JNCC (https://jncc.gov.uk/about-jncc/who-we-are/) (one of the UK's main statutory nature conservation bodies). To see more on the posts please visit the UK civil service jobs<https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.civil…> portal. JNCC's main role is to advise all four Governments of the UK on issues affecting the natural environment. In this capacity we are currently seeking two Senior Marine Mammal Advisers to lead on the provision of statutory advice on the conservation of cetaceans and seals. By way of clarification, there are 2 posts (one permanent and one fixed 2 yr. term). Also, although the Marine Species Team is nominally based in Aberdeen, there will be flexibility in the location of the post-holder in line with JNCC policy. Kind regards, Declan Tobin Declan Tobin Marine Species and Management Team Leader JNCC, Inverdee House, Baxter Street, Aberdeen, AB11 9QA Tel: +441224 083517 Mob: 07870 506200 Email: declan.tobin(a)jncc.gov.uk<mailto:declan.tobin@jncc.gov.uk> [cid:image001.jpg@01D77E1B.EF25D610] jncc.gov.uk<https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jncc.d…>

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