November 2022 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

MMO, PSO & PAM Training Course 2022
by Tabbi McGhee 24 Jan '23

24 Jan '23

Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) is offering its next Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC)-approved Marine Mammal Observer (MMO), Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Protected Species Observer (PSO), and Institute of Marine Engineering Science and Technology (IMarEst)-approved Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) training courses. JNCC-certified MMOs comply with UK regulations, and PSOs comply with USA regulations, to minimise the risk of injury and disturbance to marine mammals from various offshore operations. OSC’s MMO course comprises theory and practice, including binocular and range estimation, and role-play sessions. The PAM course comprises theory and practice using PAM equipment in OSC's workshop facilities and/or onboard OSC’s survey vessel (subject to weather). The intention is to run the following course in-person near Edinburgh at OSC’s Dunbar headquarters: 14th to 17th November 2022 Prices are exclusive of VAT, which is charged at the current rate. A discounted package price of £700 is offered for participants who wish to attend all three courses (MMO, PSO, and PAM). Course participants will also receive a discount for purchases of marine binoculars or tripod mounts from Opticron – these should be ordered in advance of the course to ensure availability. For further details: https://www.osc.co.uk/training For course registration: https://www.osc.co.uk/jncc-registration Best wishes, OSC training team [cid:image001.png@01D8D963.D28AA180] Admin Team Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) Spott Road , Dunbar , East Lothian , EH42 1RR , Scotland, UK M: +44 (0)7368 866 235<tel:M:%20+44%20(0)7368%20866%20235> T: +44 (0)1368 865 722<tel:T:%20+44%20(0)1368%20865%20722%E2%80%8B> W: www.osc.co.uk<http://www.osc.co.uk/> . MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com<http://www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com/> Tabbi McGhee PA to Directors & Office Administrator Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR, Scotland, UK M: +44 (0)7368 866 235 T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk . MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com

1 1

New Online Training Course: An Introduction To Integrating QGIS/GIS And R For Spatial Analysis - 6th to 8th May 2020
by cdmacleod＠gisinecology.com 20 Jan '23

20 Jan '23

We will be running a new online training course called 'An Introduction To Integrating QGIS/GIS and R For Spatial Analysis' between the 6th and 8th of May 2020. It will be held via the Zoom video-conferencing platform. This course is aimed at those who wish to learn how to use and integrate QGIS (the leading freely available GIS software package) and R (the leading freely available data analysis software package) for spatial analysis. It will be taught by Dr. Colin D. MacLeod, the author of 'An Introduction To Integrating QGIS And R for Spatial Analysis [1]' (Pictish Beast Publications) and a renowned expert in using GIS in biological and ecological research. He is also a co-author of the recenntly publised 'An Introduction To Basic Statistics For Biologists Using R [2]', which is a practical guide to carrying out the analysis of biological data in R. The course assumes no prior knowledge of either QGIS/GIS or R, and so is open to complete beginners as well as those how know how to use one of these software packages, and wish to learn how to integrate it with the other. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of 16 people. The course for this three day course will cost GBP 395 per person (with a discounted rate of GBP 300 for students, the unwaged and those working for registered charities). To book a place, or for more information, visit http://gisinecology.com/online-course-an-introduction-to-integrating-qgis-g… or email info(a)GISinEcology.com. GIS and statistical analysis are two of the most fundamental software tools for marine mammalogists wishing to conduct spatial analyses, which is, itself, a cornerstone for the management and conservation of marine mammal species. However, GIS and statistical analyses have their own sets of software packages, and sometimes it can be difficult to know how to integrate the two. This course will provide an introduction to the integration of QGIS (the leading freely available GIS software package) and R (the leading data analysis software packages used by biologists) to create a combined tool set that makes the most of the strengths of each of these individual software packages. It will consist of a series of background sessions on using GIS and R for spatial analysis, mixed in with practical sessions where you will learn how to use QGIS, how to use R, and how to integrate two to complete a spatial analysis project. This last part will include working through an example project, starting with creating a high quality map for publication through creating raster data layers of environmental variables, joining data together based on their spatial relationships and analysing the combined data set using R (including creating summary statistics, conducting linear regressions and conducting generalised additive modelling - GAMs). While it will primarily be based around QGIS, this course is taught using software-independent approach, and it is also open to those who wish to learn how to use ArcGIS to do biological GIS. When you attend this course you will receive a free copy of An Introduction To Integrating QGIS And R for Spatial Analysis [1] (GIS For Biologists Workbooks) as the practical exercises in that course are based on the ones contained in that book. NOTE: If you wish to use ArcGIS software for this course, alternative materials will be provided for the practical sessions. ================================================================================== GIS IN ECOLOGY - Providing Training, Advice And Consultancy On The Use Of GIS In Ecology Web: www.GISinEcology.com Email: info(a)GISinEcology.com Need to ask a question about using GIS? Try the GIS In Ecology Forum: www.GISinEcology.com/GIS_in_Ecology_forum.htm Books From GIS In Ecology Staff: GIS For Biologists: A Practical Introduction For Undergraduates; RRP: £24.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology; RRP: £44.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology: Supplementary Workbook One - Creating Maps Of Species Distribution; RRP: £19:99 If you wish to purchase these books, visit: http://www.gisinecology.com/Book_Shop.htm To help the environment, please do not print out this email unless it is unavoidable. ================================================================================== Links: ------ [1] http://gisinecology.com/an-introduction-to-integrating-qgis-and-r-for-spati… [2] http://gisinecology.com/stats-for-biologists-1

1 36

Texas A&M Galveston Seeks an Assistant Professor in Marine Mammal Biology
by Childress, Gretchen 06 Jan '23

06 Jan '23

Assistant Professor in Marine Mammal Biology The Department of Marine Biology at Texas A&M University at Galveston invites applications for a full time, tenure-track position with a 9-month academic appointment beginning August 1, 2023. Applicants will be considered for the faculty title of Assistant Professor in marine mammal biology, with an emphasis on their ecology, physiology, behavior, and/or evolution. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We are especially interested in qualified candidates who can contribute, through their research, teaching, and/or service, to the diversity and excellence of the academic community. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment for all visitors, students, faculty, and staff by promoting a culture that embraces inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability. Diverse perspectives, talents, and identities are vital to accomplishing our mission<https://www.tamu.edu/statements/mission.html> and living our core values<https://www.tamu.edu/about/coreValues.html>. We are particularly interested in recruiting someone who has developed innovative research and will develop multidisciplinary partnerships across the University, including projects within the Blue Economy framework (https://www.tamug.edu/AcademicAffairs/StrategicPlan.html) (as stated in TAMUGs 2020-2025 Strategic Plan). Individuals with strong quantitative skills and experience in acoustics and telemetry are encouraged to apply. Teaching responsibilities will include an existing undergraduate course on the biology of marine mammals and contributing to advanced classes offered at the graduate level. The successful applicant will establish and sustain a vigorous externally funded research program and mentor undergraduate and graduate students. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Department of Marine Biology occupies space in the Ocean and Coastal Studies Building, a LEED-certified facility home to over 20 research laboratories, two teaching laboratories, and a Sea Life Center with running seawater systems. More information on the Department and the campus can be found at http://www.tamug.edu. The Department members participate in their PhD and MS program, but can also consider graduate appointments in other departments on the Galveston and College Station campuses. Texas A&M University at Galveston is the ocean-oriented branch campus of Texas A&M University which educates more than 2,300 undergraduate and graduate students in a unique blend of marine and maritime programs, including majors in science, business, engineering, liberal arts, and transportation. It is driving the development of the blue economy in the Gulf Coast Region and is a critical contributor to Texas A&M's sea-grant portion of Texas A&M's land-, sea-, space-grant mission with more than $20 million in research expenditures. Texas A&M University Galveston is also home to the Texas A&M Maritime Academy, one of seven in the U.S. and the only academy integrated into a Tier 1 academic institution, which trains over 400 cadets annually for maritime service and employment around the world. Texas A&M University Galveston is ideally located in Galveston, Texas, on the Gulf Coast, surrounded by the industrial, environmental, and other programs essential to fulfilling its special-purpose mission. Aggies are known for their deep commitment to the success of each other and their strong desire to serve. Qualifications We seek an individual with a Ph.D. whose research complements and enhances that of faculty in the Department of Marine Biology (www.tamug.edu/marb<http://www.tamug.edu/marb>) and other departments of the University. The Ph.D. should be in biology, marine biology, marine science, biological oceanography or related fields. Preferred qualifications: postdoctoral or other related job experience; and a strong publication record. Application Instructions Applicants must submit electronic PDF copies of 1) a cover letter, 2) a curriculum vitae, 3) statement on research experience, 4) statement on teaching philosophy and interests, 5) a diversity statement detailing professional skills, experience, and/or willingness to support campus inclusion, diversity, and equity efforts and 6) a list of three references with contact information by applying online at: apply.interfolio.com/114816<http://apply.interfolio.com/114816>. For more information on the position, please contact the Chair of the Search Committee, Dr. Antonietta Quigg, at quigga(a)tamug.edu<mailto:quigga@tamug.edu>. The review of applications will begin on January 15, 2023. While preference will be given to applications received by this date, the position will remain open until filled. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment for all visitors, students, faculty, and staff by promoting a culture that embraces inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability. Diverse perspectives, talents, and identities are vital to accomplishing our mission<https://www.tamu.edu/statements/mission.html> and living our core values<https://www.tamu.edu/about/coreValues.html>. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer committed to diversity.

1 1

Florida Wildlife Job Opportunity
by Pasawicz, Michelle 02 Dec '22

02 Dec '22

Greetings everyone, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking a seasonal Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist III to aid the Imperiled Species Management Section with project-specific manatee conservation activities in Brevard County, Florida. This position is scheduled to begin mid-December 2022, and not to exceed 6 months or June 30, 2023. Primary duties will include providing field-based project oversight, management of daily tasks and personnel, and coordination with state and federal management staff. Responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to: 1. Manages daily field station operations and scheduled personnel, including: provides direction and training on required tasks, documents routine activities and changes to protocol, and regular communication; 2. Collaborates with state and federal wildlife staff on project methods, situational developments, and messaging; 3. Meets identified safety requirements and ensure a safe and secure working environment; 4. Participates in environmental and species monitoring, data collection, and assessment; 5. Ensures all materials and equipment are in clean and working condition; inventories, orders, and organizes supplies; 6. Attends regular team and project coordination meetings and presents on updates, issues, and needs; 7. Communicates via organizational structure and chain-of-command; 8. Participates in response efforts, carcass recovery, and other field work assignments as needed; 9. Successfully enroll in and complete required agency training; and 10. Performs other project-related duties and tasks as directed. Please follow this link to the job posting to learn more about this opportunity: https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/TALLAHASSEE-OPS-F-&-W-Biological-Scientist-I… Sincerely, Michelle R. Pasawicz Biological Administrator Imperiled Species Management Section Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission<https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/manatee/> Michelle.Pasawicz(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Michelle.Pasawicz@MyFWC.com>

1 1

New publications - two papers on kinship and parentage in bottlenose dolphins
by Shark Bay Dolphin Research Project 30 Nov '22

30 Nov '22

Dear colleagues, On behalf of all the co-authors we are pleased to share two recent publications on kinship and parentage in bottlenose dolphins in Shark Bay, Western Australia: *********************************** "Small effects of family size on sociality despite strong kin preferences in female bottlenose dolphins" Vivienne Foroughirad, Celine H. Frère, Alexis L. Levengood, Anna M.Kopps, Ewa Krzyszczyk, Janet Mann Abstract: The quantity and quality of individual social relationships is a fundamental feature of social structure for group-living species. In many species, individuals preferentially associate with close relatives, which can amplify social benefits through inclusive fitness. Reproductive variation, dispersal and other factors may nevertheless impact relative kin availability, especially for species with slow life histories. As such, variation in family size can affect the social integration of the individual. Here, we investigated the effects of family size on female sociality in a population of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus, in Shark Bay, Australia. This population exhibits high fission–fusion dynamics, with females varying widely in gregariousness and both sexes remaining philopatric, providing females with both matrilineal and nonmatrilineal kin as potential associates. We used genetic relatedness data obtained from a large single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) panel and a spatially explicit null model to measure females' propensities to form affiliations with both related and unrelated individuals. We found that females had strong social preferences for matrilineal close (first, second and third degree) kin, but also significant preferences for nonmatrilineal close and more distant kin compared to unrelated individuals. Despite these preferences, we found only small effects of kin availability on individual social position. Stronger and more consistent effects were attributable to individual foraging ecology, although much of the variation remains unexplained. Overall, our models suggest that while female dolphins have strong kin preferences, their social connectivity is not determined by family size; rather, individual foraging strategies and high fission–fusion dynamics enable a diverse repertoire of social strategies to coexist within a population. Link to article: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1g9rkmjL~dpv *********************************** "Reproductive timing as an explanation for skewed parentage assignment ratio in a bisexually philopatric population" Vivienne Foroughirad, Molly H.F. McEntee, Anna M. Kopps, Alexis L. Levengood, Celine H. Frère, Janet Mann Abstract In mammals, reproductive success can often be directly observed for females, but not males. Early-life correlates of female reproductive success can also be easier to observe due to higher rates of philopatry. Though relatively uncommon, populations in which both sexes remain in their natal home ranges can facilitate studies of mate choice and sex-specific drivers of reproductive success. Genetic parentage assessment in these systems should be more complete due to spatial philopatry since the pool of potential mothers and fathers should be equally accessible for sampling. Nevertheless, many studies still report more maternities than paternities even when individuals are randomly sampled with respect to age and sex. This discrepancy is often attributed to unobserved outbreeding. Here, we investigate two potential drivers for biased genetic parentage assignment in a bisexually philopatric community of bottlenose dolphins in which twice as many maternities as paternities are assigned to randomly sampled adults. We examine whether this pattern can best be explained by (1) sex differences in reproductive timing or (2) high levels of extra-community mating. We use long-term data on female calving success to search for biases in our genetic data collection and to constrain simulations of male reproductive timing patterns that could generate our observed data. We find that the majority of the skew in parentage assignment could be explained by differences in reproductive timing, with a smaller putative role of extra-community mating. We discuss how explicitly considering age effects as well as outbreeding can improve our understanding of sex-specific drivers of reproductive success. Link to article: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00265-022-03233-2 Please contact infommdolphin(a)gmail.com if you would like a PDF of either article

1 0

Photoes of cetaceans
by Sara Königson 30 Nov '22

30 Nov '22

Dear Marmans! I am a researcher in Sweden at the Swedish University of Agriculture Science (SLU) working on bycatch of protected species. We have developed a mobile camera system, MEM system, (Mobile electronic monitoring) that are used on Swedish fishing vessels recording bycatch of protected species. We have up to 15 vessels using the MEM systems helping us to collect data on bycatch in gillnet fisheries. We are currently also progressing with AI (artificial intelligence) and developing a model to detect bycatch in all the films we are collecting. This would decrease the time spent on analyzing the videos. To train our models we need photos and films on porpoises, grey seals and harbour seals. These bycatches do not occur that often and we need more photos to develop a reliable model. Therefore I wonder if there are someone out there who would be willing to share photos of these species to be used to train the model. If so, please do not hesitate to contact me! Sara Königson Sara Königson | Externwebben (slu.se)<https://www.slu.se/cv/sara-konigson/> [cid:image001.jpg@01D904C0.81608A80] --- När du skickar e-post till SLU så innebär detta att SLU behandlar dina personuppgifter. För att läsa mer om hur detta går till, klicka här <https://www.slu.se/om-slu/kontakta-slu/personuppgifter/> E-mailing SLU will result in SLU processing your personal data. For more information on how this is done, click here <https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/contact-slu/personal-data/>

1 0

New Publication: Reproductive biology of female common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in New Zealand waters
by Emily Palmer 29 Nov '22

29 Nov '22

Kia Ora MARMAMers, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication of an international collaboration involving Massey University, Atlantic Technological University, Department of Conservation (DOC) and our iwi partners to offer first insights to the reproduction of female common dolphins in New Zealand waters. Palmer EI, Betty EL, Murphy S, Perrott MR, Smith ANH, and Stockin KA (2022). Reproductive biology of female common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in New Zealand waters. Marine Biology 169, 158. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00227-022-04139-3 Abstract: Reproductive biology was assessed in 106 female common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) examined post-mortem from stranding and bycatch events along the New Zealand coastline between 1997 and 2019. The average age (ASM) and length (LSM) at sexual maturity was estimated at 7.5 years and 183.5 cm, respectively. The total number of corpora in mature individuals increased with age and appeared to persist throughout life. Ovarian asymmetry was apparent, with the left ovary displaying higher rates of ovulation, and a maximum of 19 corpora recorded for a 24-year-old female. The estimated ovulation and annual pregnancy rates for mature females were 0.39 year−1 and 30%, respectively. Conception and calving occurred year-round, with a weak seasonal increase observed in late austral spring and early austral summer. As these data did not clearly show whether seasonality was present, the gestation, lactation, and resting periods were calculated as either 12.6 or 12.8 months based on the presence/absence of seasonality, respectively. Similarly, calving interval ranged from 3.15 to 3.2 years, depending upon whether seasonality was considered. The estimated LSM of the New Zealand population aligns with other populations globally, although the estimated ASM is younger by approximately 6 months. Other reproductive parameters align with Northern Hemisphere populations, although demonstrate variation, which may reflect adaptations to local conditions such as water temperature and prey availability. As the species is subject to anthropogenic impacts including pollution and bycatch, we suggest our findings be used as a baseline with which to monitor trends in population parameters. Open Access the full research from here: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00227-022-04139-3 Thank you very much and ngā mihi nui, Emily Emily Palmer PhD Candidate | Cetacean Ecology Research Group | School of Natural Sciences | Massey University https://www.cetaceanecology.org/

1 0

Current knowledge and future directions in underwater acoustics- FREE webinar tomorrow, 11/30
by Holly Morin 29 Nov '22

29 Nov '22

***apologies for cross-postings*** The Discovery of Sound in the Sea (DOSITS) <http://www.dosits.org/>Team is pleased to host a special webinar in celebration of the project's 20th anniversary. Underwater acoustics experts will discuss the *current state of knowledge* and *future research* directions on the *characterization of the underwater acoustic environment* and the *acoustics of marine mammals, fishes *and* invertebrates. * Presenters will include: - Dr. Joseph Sisneros (marine fishes) - Dr. Louise Roberts (marine invertebrates) - Dr. Brandon Southall (marine mammals) - Dr. Alec Duncan (underwater acoustic environment) The 90-minute webinar will take place tomorrow, *Wednesday,* *November 30, 2022 starting at 12pm EDT.* It will be *hosted via Zoom and simultaneously streamed on YouTube*. The full webinar event will also *be recorded;* a video will be posted to the DOSITS website for later viewing. *Presentation outlines, with DOSITS links, can also be found online* on the 2022 DOSITS Webinar Series page <https://dosits.org/decision-makers/webinar-series/2022-webinar/>. *Registration is required.* To register please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dosits-20th-anniversary-webinar-registration-4… . All interested individuals, including informal and formal educators, upper level students, scientists, resource managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, are encouraged to participate in this informative and engaging webinar event. Please share the event widely within your networks! Questions? Please contact dositswebinar(a)uri.edu.

1 0

Two fully funded PhD projects on the trophic ecology of marine mammals
by Huckstadt, Luis 29 Nov '22

29 Nov '22

Apologies for cross-posting Please, distribute widely to students that might be interested in pursuing a PhD degree in the UK. We are offering two fully funded PhD projects on the trophic ecology of marine mammals at the University of Exeter, Penryn campus (www.luishuckstadt.com<https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.luishu…>), starting in autumn 2023. Please, make sure to contact me if you have any questions or want to know more details about the projects. You can email me at: L.Huckstadt [at] exeter.ac.uk Project 1: Understanding the effects of rapid environmental change on the ecology of a key Southern Ocean predator, the Antarctic fur seal Lead Supervisor: Dr Luis Huckstadt (University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn). Additional Supervisors: Dr Jaume Forcada (British Antarctic Survey), Dr Stuart Bearhop (University of Exeter), Dr Richard Sabin (Natural History Museum, London), Dr Sally Thorpe (British Antarctic Survey). This project will investigate the differences in the foraging ecology and patterns of habitat utilisation of Antarctic fur seals across a latitudinal gradient across the Polar Front (South Georgia and South Shetland Islands), as well as build models to project future changes as the environment continues to change. Atmospheric, oceanographic, and sea ice conditions in this region of the Southern Ocean (western Antarctic Peninsula/Drake Passage/Scotia Sea) are rapidly shifting because of human-induced Global Climate Change and local environmental processes. Because the ecology of Antarctic fur seals is tightly linked to the population of their dominant prey, the Antarctic krill, this study will help anticipate how this important prey and the entire krill-dependent community of large predators (whales, penguins, and seals) will respond to the projected environmental changes. Further, ecological historical data from museum specimens provide a unique opportunity to detect past and project future changes in the ecology of this conspicuous Antarctic mesopredator over multiple decades. For details, please visit https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/funding/award/?id=4596<https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.exete…> Project 2: Developing a novel system to monitor the status of coastal ecosystems in South West England using a complementary approach: from remote sensing to marine top predators Lead Supervisor: Dr Luis Huckstadt (University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn). Additional Supervisors: Dr Lauren Biermann (Plymouth Marine Laboratory), Dr Simon Ingram (University of Plymouth), Dr Stuart Bearhop (University of Exeter), Ruth Williams (Cornwall Wildlife Trust), and Rob Deaville (Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) at the Zoological Society of London). Marine top predators have long been proposed to have the potential to serve as 'sentinel species' yet most of our efforts to gather ecosystem-level information from marine top predators remain limited to linking variability in individual success and mortality rates to shifts in the ecosystem productivity regime. This is likely due to the limited understanding that we have of the role of marine top predators in marine biogeochemical cycles, transfer of biomass, patterns of biological productivity, and nutrient fluxes. We propose to develop an ecological monitoring system of the coastal marine ecosystem in South West England by combining approaches: bottom-up (remote sensing) and top-down (biogeochemical markers in marine top predators). By combining these two perspectives of ecosystem monitoring, we will gain a better understanding of how changes at the base of the ecosystem are dispersed through the trophic web until they reach top predators. We will be able to determine the sources and pathways of carbon that support the populations of pelagic fish and marine predators (trophic fluxes), allowing us to empirically link a particular perturbation in the area with the components of the ecosystem that might be affected (e.g.: the effects of temperature anomalies or Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) on fish stocks and marine predators). Because we are aiming at obtaining a better ecological understanding of mid-trophic species by using this combined monitoring approach, this project will have a direct effect on ecosystem and fisheries management, improving our ability to make better decisions about fishing stocks and other human economic activities in the area that depend on the marine ecosystem. For details, please visit https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/research-degrees/centr…<https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.plymo…> Sincerely, Dr. Luis A. Huckstadt (He/Him) Senior Lecturer in Marine Ecology Department of Ecology and Conservation University of Exeter Stella Turk Building, Room B051-L09 Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1326 255065 www.luishuckstadt.com<http://www.luishuckstadt.com/> Follow me [cid:image001.png@01D903DD.6E799DA0] <https://twitter.com/LuisHuckstadt> [Mastodon (@Mastodon@mastodon.social) - Mastodon] <https://ecoevo.social/@luishuckstadt> [cid:image003.png@01D903DD.6E799DA0] <https://www.facebook.com/luis.huckstadt> [cid:image004.png@01D903DD.6E799DA0] <https://www.instagram.com/luishuckstadt/> [http://www.exeter.ac.uk/codebox/email-sig/staff-sig.gif] This email and any attachment may contain information that is confidential, privileged, or subject to copyright, and which may be exempt from disclosure under applicable legislation. It is intended for the addressee only. If you received this message in error, please let me know and delete the email and any attachments immediately. The University will not accept responsibility for the accuracy/completeness of this email and its attachments.

1 0

New publication: Oxygen minimum zone depth effects on dolphin the distributions
by Mario A. Pardo 28 Nov '22

28 Nov '22

Dear all, We are pleased to announce the recent publication of the following article in Frontiers in Marine Science: Llapapasca MA, Pardo MA, Grados D and Quiñones J (2022) The oxygen minimum zone relative depth is a key driver of dolphin habitats in the northern Humboldt Current System. Front. Mar. Sci. 9:1027366. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2022.1027366 The article is freely available at https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2022.1027366. Abstract: Highly mobile odontocetes need habitats with environmental conditions with the potential of aggregating enough and high-quality prey, to maximize foraging success. Until now, the characterization of those habitats was in terms of physical and biological indicators of high production, capable of attracting and sustaining prey. Nevertheless, there has been no approach to quantifying the effects of a biophysical characteristic of the ocean with proven effects on the vertical distribution of prey for cetaceans: The oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) depth. In the northern branch of the Humboldt Current System off Peru (~6-18° S), a shallow OMZ (30-50 m) affects the distribution of the Peruvian anchovy (/Engraulis //ringens/), main prey for several marine predators, including dolphins. We hypothesized these predators would aggregate in productive areas, but with preference for places where the relative OMZ depth can constrain prey vertically, making it more accessible and maximizing foraging success. We fitted Bayesian habitat models for three dominant odontocete species in this region, with multiple combinations of environmental covariates, smoothing techniques, and temporal and spatial random effects. Cetacean data came from 23 dedicated surveys spanning 2001-2019. Habitat predictors included the spatial anomalies of sea surface temperature, surface chlorophyl-a, pycnocline depth and OMZ depth. Dusky (/Lagenorhynchus //obscurus/) and common dolphins (/Delphinus //delphis/) preferred productive, cold areas with a very shallow OMZ, regardless of the season, while bottlenose dolphins (/Tursiops/ /truncatus/) aggregated in both cold and warm waters, also with shallow OMZ. The former two species of higher metabolic demands would maximize energy intake by selecting areas with highly aggregated prey, while the latter, of more moderate metabolic needs and more diverse prey, would exploit less restricted habitats. Kind regards, -- *Mario A. Pardo* CICESE <http://www.cicese.edu.mx/> - Unidad La Paz <https://ulp.cicese.mx/mario-pardo/> Laboratorio de Macroecología Marina Investigador Cátedra CONACYT <https://conacyt.mx/conacyt/areas-del-conacyt/desarrollo-cientifico/catedras…> Miraflores 334, La Paz, BCS 23050, México Tel: +52(612)1213031 Ext. 28116 ResearchGate <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mario_Pardo2/> | GoogleScholar <https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=EX8mZ9AAAAAJ&hl=en> ORCiD: 0000-0003-1248-3399 <https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1248-3399>

1 0