July 2022 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper on Deraniyagala’s beaked whale (Mesoplodon hotaula) strandings
by Wojtek Bachara 30 Jul '22

30 Jul '22

Dear all, I am pleased to announce my recent report: Bachara, W. (2022) A review of world stranding records of a Deraniyagala’s beaked whale (Mesoplodon hotaula). Unpublished report to Cetal Fauna. Report WB2022/1 Abstract: Deraniyagala's beaked whale is one of the rarest members of the family Ziphiidae and is known only from some strandings in the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans. In this report a review of strandings in the Philippines is presented and additional, new world stranding records are added, including one from Sulawesi, Indonesia. The paper is available here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1m8Pf_NSjS7aNLvtDv6h5JVpDFghzq1P0/view Please do contact me (ziphiid(a)gmail.com) if you have any questions. Thank you very much, Wojtek Bachara ORCID: 0000-0003-0798-0382 https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Wojtek-Bachara

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Job opportunity: Cetacean Rehabilitation Manager
by Sharp, Brian 29 Jul '22

29 Jul '22

Dear colleagues, The IFAW Marine Mammal Rescue and Research team is hiring a Cetacean Rehabilitation Manager to head up an innovative new pilot project aimed at increasing the post-release survivorship of stranded cetaceans. The position will be based on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, a global live cetacean stranding hotspot. This pilot project will establish a Cetacean Intensive Care Unit to provide short-term care (24 to 96 hours) to cetaceans experiencing stranding-related trauma. This pilot project is planned for three years with the potential to continue if warranted by project impact. For more information on this opportunity and to apply visit the IFAW website<https://recruiting.ultipro.com/INT1059IFFA/JobBoard/17b588a3-808b-4bc9-aea8…>. -Brian Brian Sharp Director Marine Mammal Rescue & Research 290 Summer Street Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 United States www.ifaw.org<https://www.ifaw.org/> Stranding Hotline: +1 508 743 9548 [ifaw]<https://www.ifaw.org/> The content of this email is intended only for the use of the above-named addressee and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, and/or legally privileged. Please notify the sender if you received this email in error.

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Job Posting: NOAA Fisheries Physical Acoustician
by Amy SCHOLIK - NOAA Federal 29 Jul '22

29 Jul '22

Hello, We are very excited to announce an opening for a Physical Acoustician at our HQ Office of Protected Resources in Silver Spring., Maryland. This position would focus on assessments, measurements, and models of underwater sound to directly support a better understanding of underwater noise and its impacts on protected species, including marine mammals. Please see the following announcement, if interested: NMFS-PR-2022-0024 <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/667791300> *Note*: This position is open for only 14 days: from July 28th through August 10th. Thanks, Amy Amy R. Scholik-Schlomer, Ph.D*. *(she/her/hers) Fishery Biologist (HQ Protected Resources Acoustic Coordinator) *NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service* *Office of Protected Resources* *Permits and Conservation Division1315 East-West Hwy.SSMC3, Rm. 13605Silver Spring, MD 20910* (301) 427-8449 (*will get record of voicemail while on extended telework)* Email: *Amy.Scholik(a)noaa.gov <Amy.Scholik(a)noaa.gov>* https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/insight/understanding-sound-ocean

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New paper on "Gillnet depredation by bottlenose dolphins and ecological/nutritional characteristics of their prey"
by Eduardo Morteo 28 Jul '22

28 Jul '22

Dear All, On behalf of my coauthors, I would like to share with you our latest paper where we test if the ecological/nutritional characteristics of prey have relation to the opportunistic gill-net depredation by bottlenose dolphins: Chávez-Martínez K, Morteo E, Hernández-Candelario I, Herzka SZ and Delfín-Alfonso CA (2022) Opportunistic gillnet depredation by common bottlenose dolphins in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico: Testing the relationship with ecological, trophic, and nutritional characteristics of their prey. Front. Mar. Sci. 9:870012. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2022.870012 Abstract: Competition between fisheries and bottlenose dolphins is a globally relevant conflict given its socioeconomic and ecological implications. Understanding the factors driving the interactions between dolphins and fishery activities is key to the development of appropriate mitigation strategies. Our study aimed to assess whether these interactions are related to the ecological, trophic, and nutritional characteristics of the catch. We used 117 gillnet sets from 48 fishing trips during 2009 – 2010 and 2015 – 2019, which were classified based on the presence or absence of dolphin interactions. These interactions occurred year-round and were documented in 46.1% of the sets, with 14.5% of those showing signs of depredation. The passive acoustic predatory hypothesis, which states that fish species that generate sound are subject to a higher predation intensity by dolphins, was not supported by our data. Also, with the exception of species diversity, ecological parameters such as richness, biomass and CPUE were slightly higher, although not significant in sets with dolphin interaction. Furthermore, during 2015 – 2016, we sampled 123 organisms of 25 representative fish species in the catches and determined the whole fish isotopic composition (δ13C and δ15N), and estimated the nutritional value (i.e., lipid, protein, and energy content) of each species. Isotopic values showed no differences between net settings (with and without interaction), fish habitat, or prey type (potential prey, n= 11 species, vs. non-potential prey, n= 14). However, a preference towards fish from a certain range of thropic levels was evident. All the fish (N= 123) showed significantly higher protein values during the Rainy period, which may be attributed to their reproductive cycles and higher primary productivity. Interestingly, energy contents of the dolphins’ potential prey were also significantly higher during this period. Unexpectedly, protein and energy contents were significantly higher in the fishes caught in the sets without dolphin interaction, but only during the Dry and Windy periods, respectively. Opportunistic feeding habits are well known for bottlenose dolphins, and our results showed that “easy access” to prey will likely prompt interaction with gillnets, regardless of the species composition, biomass, seasonality, preferred habitat, sound production capacity, or nutritional value of the captured fish. The publication can be accessed freely at the Frontiers webpage: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2022.870012/full?&utm_so… Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any comments or questions at: eduardo.morteo(a)gmail.com <mailto:eduardo.morteo@gmail.com> Kind regards, Dr. Eduardo Morteo Director Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Universidad Veracruzana Calle Dr. Castelazo Ayala S/N, Col. Industrial Ánimas CP 91190, Xalapa, Veracruz, México. Ph/Tel: +52 (228) 841 89 00 E-mail: emorteo(a)uv.mx http://www.uv.mx/personal/emorteo/ http://uv-mx.academia.edu/EMorteo https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eduardo_Morteo/?ev=hdr_xprf http://scholar.google.com.mx/citations?user=fDUl-IIAAAAJ

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New Paper - Aerial Infrared Thermography of Right Whales
by Gina L Lonati 28 Jul '22

28 Jul '22

Dear MARMAM Community, On behalf of my co-authors at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the New England Aquarium, and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, I am pleased to share a new publication: Lonati, G. L., Zitterbart, D. P., Miller, C. A., Corkeron, P., Murphy, C. T., and Moore, M. J. (2022) Investigating the thermal physiology of Critically Endangered North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis via aerial infrared thermography. Endangered Species Research, 48:139-154. https://doi.org/10.3354/esr01193 (open access) ABSTRACT: The Critically Endangered status of North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis (NARWs) warrants the development of new, less invasive technology to monitor the health of individuals. Combined with advancements in remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS, commonly 'drones'), infrared thermography (IRT) is being increasingly used to detect and count marine mammals and study their physiology. We conducted RPAS-based IRT over NARWs in Cape Cod Bay, MA, USA, in 2017 and 2018. Observations demonstrated 3 particularly useful applications of RPAS-based IRT to study large whales: (1) exploring patterns of cranial heat loss and providing insight into the physiological mechanisms that produce these patterns; (2) tracking subsurface individuals in real-time (depending on the thermal stratification of the water column) using cold surface water anomalies resulting from fluke upstrokes; and (3) detecting natural changes in superficial blood circulation or diagnosing pathology based on heat anomalies on post-cranial body surfaces. These qualitative applications present a new, important opportunity to study, monitor, and conserve large whales, particularly rare and at-risk species such as NARWs. Despite the challenges of using this technology in aquatic environments, the applications of RPAS-based IRT for monitoring the health and behavior of endangered marine mammals, including the collection of quantitative data on thermal physiology, will continue to diversify. Please reach out with any questions. Thank you! Gina & colleagues Gina Lonati PhD Student (she/her) University of New Brunswick Saint John https://glonati2222.wixsite.com/research gina.lonati(a)unb.ca

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Seeking harbour porpoise vocalisations
by Todd, Nicole 28 Jul '22

28 Jul '22

Dear Marmam community, I hope one of you can assist me. I'm reaching out as I am seeking wav file recordings of harbour porpoise vocalisations. These are to be used for a playback experiment so need to be of high sampling rate and low distortion, for example from a D tag or similar. Ideally, I would be looking for both regular echolocation and foraging clicks, only short sequences necessary as can be repeated multiple times. If anyone feels they can facilitate this, or has any advice on the matter please get in touch, I would be very grateful and happy to discuss further. Many thanks in advance, Nicole --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nicole Todd| PhD student MaREI Centre | School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Science University College Cork +353 (0)21 486 4395 @NicoleRETodd

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New Publication: Entanglement of Steller Sea Lions in Marine Debris and Fishing Gear on the Central Oregon Coast from 2005–2009
by Kim Raum-Suryan - NOAA Federal 26 Jul '22

26 Jul '22

Greetings MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-author and I, we are happy to announce the publication of our recent paper in the Special Issue of the *Oceans* journal: "Entanglement of Steller Sea Lions in Marine Debris and Fishing Gear on the Central Oregon Coast from 2005–2009" Abstract: Entanglement in marine debris and fishing gear is an increasing problem for the world’s pinnipeds and a contributing factor in Steller sea lion (*Eumetopias jubatus*) injury and mortality. From 2005–2009, we surveyed (n = 389 days) two haul-outs on the central Oregon coast containing a combined median of 402 animals (range 33–1240, or ca. 1–19% of the Oregon coast population). We recorded 72 individuals entangled in marine debris (n = 70) or with ingested salmon hook-and-line fishing gear (n = 2). Of the identifiable neck entanglements, black rubber bands were the most common neck-entangling material (62%), followed by plastic packing bands (36%), nets (1.2%), yellow rubber bands (0.4%), and a flying disc (0.4%). The estimated prevalence of entanglement for individuals in Oregon was 0.34%. Juveniles were the most frequently entangled age class (60%), followed by adult females (28%), and subadult males (12%). Supply chain and industry-based solutions are needed to prevent entangling debris from entering the ocean, along with eliminating, modifying, or cutting entangling loops of synthetic material. The paper is freely available via open access in the Special Issue here: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/oceans/special_issues/mar_mammal_health Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Thank you, Kim Raum-Suryan -- Kim Raum-Suryan Marine Mammal Specialist, PRD, Alaska Region NOAA Fisheries | U.S. Department of Commerce Office: (907) 586-7424 www.fisheries.noaa.gov/region/alaska

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Back issue of Scientific Reports of the Whales Research Institute available
by Thomas Jefferson 26 Jul '22

26 Jul '22

Dear MARMAM, ¡VIVA Vaquita! has back issues of the Scientific Reports of the Whales Research Institute (a Japanese marine mammal journal published in English from 1948-1988) available for a donation to our organization. Most issues are available, and a near-complete set is also available. Please contact us if you are interested and let us know the specific issue or issues you have interest in, or if you would like a listing of the papers in each issue. ¡VIVA Vaquita! is a non-profit organization dedicated to working to help save the vaquita from extinction. 100% of funds raised are actively used for research and conservation work on the vaquita (Phocoena sinus), the world’s most endangered marine mammal species, and other endangered cetaceans. The global population of the vaquita now numbers less than 10 individuals and is nearing extinction. Visit our website at www.vivavaquita.org for more details. To request SRWRI issues, please contact Tom Jefferson at <sclymene(a)aol.com>.

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New publication: "Extremely Low mtDNA Diversity and High Genetic Differentiation Reveal the Precarious Genetic Status of Dugongs in New Caledonia, South Pacific"
by Claire GARRIGUE 26 Jul '22

26 Jul '22

Dear Marmam community, On behalf of my co-authors, I am happy to announce the publication of our recent paper in Journal of Heredity https://doi.org/10.1093/jhered/esac029 : "/Extremely Low mtDNA Diversity and High Genetic Differentiation Reveal the Precarious Genetic Status of Dugongs in New Caledonia, South Pacific/" .. */Abstract/*/ //New Caledonia is home to one of the largest remaining populations of dugongs (Dugong dugon) and is located at the southeastern limit of the// //species range. Local knowledge suggests that current levels of removal due to anthropogenic pressures are unsustainable, whereas trends suggest// //an ongoing decline in the population. Considering this unfavorable conservation context, this study aimed to assess the New Caledonian// //dugong population’s resilience by determining its level of genetic diversity and degree of isolation relative to other populations. Mitochondrial// //DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences (n = 55) collected from live and dead dugongs in New Caledonia were compared with a global data// //set of previously published sequences (n = 631) representing dugong populations throughout the species range. The New Caledonian dugong// //population displayed the lowest level of mtDNA diversity documented worldwide (3 haplotypes with 1-bp difference), suggesting a recent origin// //of the current population through limited colonization events. Population structure analyses indicate a strong genetic differentiation with all the// //putative populations represented in the global data set, including large neighboring Australian populations. These results show that the dugong// //population in New Caledonia is particularly isolated, fragile, and vulnerable to anthropogenic threats and diseases with low potential for resilience// //through incoming gene flow. Our findings call for an instant conservation response and consideration for IUCN population assessment to// //support the long-term survival of the New Caledonian dugong population.// / Feel free to contact any of the authors for pdf: Claire Bonneville: claire.bonneville(a)ird.fr Christophe Cleguer: christophe.cleguer(a)jcu.edu.au Marc Oremus: moremus(a)wwf.nc Best regards -- Dr Claire Garrigue UMR ENTROPIE - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement 101 Promenade Gabriel Laroque BPA5 98848 Nouméa Cedex Nouvelle-Calédonie Phone: +687 829560 https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Claire_Garrigue

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Research Scientist Position with focus on marine mammal health - Mystic Aquarium
by Tracy Romano 25 Jul '22

25 Jul '22

[A picture containing logo Description automatically generated] POSITION: Research Scientist- focus on marine mammal health DEPARTMENT: Research IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: Vice President of Research & Chief Scientist EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt (Salaried) SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: Yes JOB SUMMARY: Consistently exhibit excellent representation of the aquarium through a positive, energetic, and teamwork-focused work ethic. Mystic Aquarium is seeking a Research Scientist to address the effects of environmental and anthropogenic stressors on the immune system and health of marine mammals, birds, and sea turtles. Rounding out an interdisciplinary team focused on health, experience and skills for studying the microbiome will add to existing capabilities of the Aquarium's research team. Continued development and validation of non-invasive techniques to assess health including but not limited to both aquarium and wild whales, seals, sea lions, walrus and penguins will also help to move the team's health related research forward. The position includes writing grants for and securing funding for animal health related research projects focused on but not limited to microbiome, immunology, neuroendocrinology, molecular and cell biology. The Research Scientist will also carry out existing and new research projects in the laboratory and perform appropriate laboratory and statistical analyses. Findings will be relayed in the form of scientific publications, reports, and presentations. Diagnostic services will also be offered and carried out, related to the research analyses. Serves on graduate student committees and as adjunct faculty at other institutions. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * A Ph.D. in the biological sciences and/or related field * Must have completed at least 1-3 postdoctoral traineeship(s) * Working knowledge of microbiome and/or techniques in measuring hormones in biological tissues desired * Supervisory experience * Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, excel, Power Point and have working knowledge of statistical, graphics and database programs * Must be able to work independently as well as part of a team * Have a willingness to learn, and possess strong written and verbal communication skills RESPONSIBILITIES: * Perform appropriate research techniques in the laboratory and field unsupervised * Develop assays in conjunction with existing and new research projects * Perform data entry and analysis and literature searches * Relay research objectives, progress and results in formats such as written scientific abstracts, manuscripts, reports, statistics, graphs, and presentations * Supervise students, volunteers and technicians who are assisting in the laboratory * Assist with organization and maintenance of the laboratory * Serve on graduate student committees * Serve as adjunct faculty at other institutions * Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisor Sea Research Foundation, Inc. (dba Mystic Aquarium) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation. Women and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply Application can be found on our website: https://www.mysticaquarium.org/careers/<https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mysti…> OR https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.htm…<https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fworkforce…> [A person holding a baby penguin Description automatically generated with medium confidence]<https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mysti…> Employment | Jobs at Mystic Aquarium<https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mysti…> Please note that individuals must have received or be willing to receive COVID-19 vaccination as well as applicable Booster by the date of hire to be considered for hire, internship, externship, or volunteering at Mystic Aquarium. Proof must be submitted on the first day via an official vaccination card. www.mysticaquarium.org<http://www.mysticaquarium.org> Tracy Romano, PhD Vice President of Research & Chief Scientist Office: 860.572.5955 x102 Cell: 860-514-3688 www.mysticaquarium.org/<http://www.mysticaquarium.org/> [cid:image002.png@01D89D0A.F183A540]

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