August 2022 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New Publication: Morphological Structure of the Aortic Wall in Deep Diving Cetacean Species: Evidence for Diving Adaptation
by Simona Sacchini 18 Aug '22

18 Aug '22

Dear Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our paper: Mompeó B, Sacchini S, Quintana MdP, Rivero M, Consoli F, Fernández A, Bernaldo de Quirós Y. Morphological Structure of the Aortic Wall in Deep Diving Cetacean Species: Evidence for Diving Adaptation. Veterinary Sciences. 2022; 9(8):424. This study analyses the aortic wall structure in nine cetacean species with deep diving habits belonging to four Odontoceti families: Ziphiidae, Kogiidae, Physteridae, and Delphinidae. Samples of ascending, thoracic and abdominal aorta were processed for histological and morphometric studies. The elastic component was higher in the proximal aortic segments, and the muscular elements increased distally in all cases. Morphometric analyses showed that all families presented a decrease in the thickness of the arterial wall and the tunica media along the aorta. The reduction was dramatic between ascending and thoracic aorta in the Physeteridae specimens; meanwhile, the other three families showed a more uniform decrease between the ascending, thoracic and abdominal aorta. The decline was not correlated with a reduced elastic or lamellar unit thickness but with a loss of lamellar units. The organization of the elements in the aortic wall did not show essential modifications between the four families, resembling the structure described previously in the shallow and intermediate diving dolphins. Our findings support that the difference in the morphometric characteristics of the different segments in the aortic wall is likely related to the diving habit more than the absolutes values of any other parameter. You can freely access our manuscript here: https://www.mdpi.com/2306-7381/9/8/424 Kind regards, Simona Sacchini Centro Atlántico de Investigación de Cetáceos Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal y Seguridad Alimentaria Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

1 0

Postdoc Position open on marine predator tracking and space weather influences
by Mia Wege 17 Aug '22

17 Aug '22

Dear MARMAM'ers, We are seeking a postdoctoral candidate to investigate space weather influences on marine predator movements at sea. Specifically, this study will aim to collate telemetry data from a range of Southern Ocean marine mammal species and use these to investigate correlation between the recorded movement patterns with space weather events such as, for example, sun cycles and geomagnetic storms. The position is funded for 24 months through a NRF South African National Antarctic Program Postdoctoral Grant at the University of Pretoria (Pretoria, South Africa) and will work closely with the South African National Space Agency (Hermanus, South Africa). Project start date is negotiable, but aiming to start as soon as possible. We are looking for a self-starting, independent and highly motivated colleague who is interested in marine mammal movement ecology, space weather, habitat modelling and science communication. PhD required, with background in either ecology/zoology/physics. Skills in statistics, and GIS; competency with GIS and either R or Python or Matlab is essential; strong writing skills, ability to adapt/learn quickly are a major plus. Ability to work in Hermanus for at least part of the project is a plus as well. Potential candidates who identify with groups traditionally under-represented in the sciences are especially encouraged to apply. If you have questions or are interested in the position, please email me at *mwege@* <mia.wege(a)gmail.com>*zoology.up.ac.za <http://zoology.up.ac.za>* and attach your CV. Position will be open until filled. The project involves collaboration between the Mammal Research Institute (MRI) at the University of Pretoria and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA). The project will be led by Dr Mia Wege, working closely with a team of experts in their respective fields (Dr Els Vermeulen (MRI), Dr Pierre Cilliers (SANSA), Dr Stefan Lotz (SANSA), and Prof Nico de Bruyn (MRI)). Do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions, Mia -- Mia Wege, PhD (she/her) Lecturer Department of Zoology & Entomology University of Pretoria https://www.drmiawege.com/ +27 (0)78 002 3951 mia.wege(a)gmail.com

1 1

Australia/New Zealand student chapter monthly catch up
by Ciara Browne 16 Aug '22

16 Aug '22

Dear MARMAMers, The Australia New Zealand Student Chapter of the Society of Marine Mammalogy hosts a monthly online connect group with guest speakers aimed at students and early career researchers in the marine mammal field. The next group meeting is Wednesday 31st August with Prof. Karen Stockin joining us to talk about "Family Matters"! We hope to see many of you there! Join via this zoom link: https://massey.zoom.us/j/89927852459?pwd=5pnvsmuy4xKnK1oXSxa1_TXQbCS6-u.1 (Password: 003359) These groups will happen on the last Wednesday of each month at 12pm WA (GMT+8) via the same link with guest speakers from various sectors to talk about the different career paths available in marine mammal science and providing advice, tips, and encouragement for early-career researchers as well as to help students build better connections and stay informed. Please get in touch if you have any questions: anzscsmm(a)gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/ANZSCSMM/ https://marinemammalscience.org/professional-development/chapters/australia… On behalf of the chapter heads Grace Russell (Southern Cross University), Brodie Elsdon (Curtin University), Gabrielle Genty (Flinders University) and Ciara Browne (Curtin University), Courtney Ogilvy (University of Auckland) and Rebecca Boys (Massey University)

1 0

New publication: Increase in trophic segregation in response to warming ocean conditions in Peruvian Humboldt Current System
by Susana Cardenas 16 Aug '22

16 Aug '22

Dear MARMAM colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our new publication "Sympatric otariids increase trophic segregation in response to warming ocean conditions in Peruvian Humboldt Current System" published in PloS One. PDF is freely available using the link below. Cárdenas-Alayza S, Adkesson MJ, Edwards MR, Hirons AC, Gutiérrez D, Tremblay Y, Franco-Trecu, V (2022) Sympatric otariids increase trophic segregation in response to warming ocean conditions in Peruvian Humboldt Current System. PLoS ONE 17(8): e0272348. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0272348 ABSTRACT: Determining trophic habits of predator communities is essential to measure interspecific interactions and response to environmental fluctuations. South American fur seals, Arctocephalus australis (SAFS) and sea lions Otaria byronia (SASL), coexist along the coasts of Peru. Recently, ocean warming events (2014–2017) that can decrease and impoverish prey biomass have occurred in the Peruvian Humboldt Current System. In this context, our aim was to assess the effect of warming events on long-term inter- and intra-specific niche segregation. We collected whiskers from SAFS (55 females and 21 males) and SASL (14 females and 22 males) in Punta San Juan, Peru. We used δ13C and δ15N values serially archived in otariid whiskers to construct a monthly time series for 2005–2019. From the same period we used sea level anomaly records to determine shifts in the predominant oceanographic conditions using a change point analysis. Ellipse areas (SIBER) estimated niche width of species-sex groups and their overlap. We detected a shift in the environmental conditions marking two distinct periods (P1: January 2005—October 2013; P2: November 2013—December 2019). Reduction in δ15N in all groups during P2 suggests impoverished baseline values with bottom-up effects, a shift towards consuming lower trophic level prey, or both. Reduced overlap between all groups in P2 lends support of a more redundant assemblage during the colder P1 to a more trophically segregated assemblage during warmer P2. SASL females show the largest variation in response to the warming scenario (P2), reducing both ellipse area and δ15N mean values. Plasticity to adapt to changing environments and feeding on a more available food source without fishing pressure can be more advantageous for female SASL, albeit temporary trophic bottom-up effects. This helps explain larger population size of SASL in Peru, in contrast to the smaller and declining SAFS population. Please, do not hesitate to contact me for any questions. Best to all, -- Susana Cárdenas Alayza, MSc, PhD Directora Programa Punta San Juan Centro para la Sostenibilidad Ambiental Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia cel. +51 999931218 Email: scardenas(a)csa-upch.org http://www.puntasanjuan.org/ ¡Síguenos en Facebook! <https://www.facebook.com/ProgramaPSJ/>

1 0

Canada-Marine Mammal Observer Course in Vancouver, British Columbia
by Emily Ricketts 16 Aug '22

16 Aug '22

Edgewise Environmental is offering a Canada - Marine Mammal Observer program scheduled for October 12th - November 7th. This course consists of 4 weeks of online theory with one in-person, at-sea practical taking place on November 7th in Vancouver, BC. The course shall focus on mitigation processes of offshore and coastal programs that may impact marine mammals and other megafauna. Click here <https://www.edgewiseenvironmental.com/events/> for more information or email info(a)edgewiseenvironmntal.com. -- *Emily Ricketts* *Marketing and Business Development Support/Logistics Coordinator* Edgewise Environmental Ltd. St. John's, NL, Canada www.edgewiseenvironmental.com [image: Facebook icon] <https://www.facebook.com/edgewiseenvironmental> [image: LinkedIn icon] <https://www.linkedin.com/company/edgewise-environmental/> [image: Twitter icon] <https://twitter.com/edgewiseNL> [image: Instagram icon] <https://www.instagram.com/edgewiseenvironmental> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: *The contents of this email message and any attachments are intended solely for the addressee(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information and may be legally protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient of this message or their agent, or if this message has been addressed to you in error, please immediately alert the sender by reply email and then delete this message and any attachments. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any use, dissemination, copying, or storage of this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited.*

1 0

New publication on the foraging behavior of Baird's beaked whales (Berardius baiirdi)
by Annamaria DeAngelis - NOAA Federal 16 Aug '22

16 Aug '22

Could the message below be posted on MARMAM? Thanks! Hi all, We are pleased to announce the recent publication of our note "Echolocation depths and acoustic foraging behavior of Baird's beaked whales (Berardius bairdii) based on towed hydrophone recordings" in Marine Mammal Science. A group of 12 Baird's beaked whales were tracked using a towed hydrophone array off the coast of Oregon. Three dives were observed, two without vocalizations, and one with echolocation, burst pulses, and whistles. Of the 12 individuals, 7 individuals were recorded on the array, and depths were estimated for 4 of the 7 individuals. The full dive profile could not be calculated, but the latter portion of the dive contained depths ranging from 330-880 m. Feel free to contact Annamaria at annamaria.deangelis(a)noaa.gov for any questions or a PDF. Please expect a delay in response as I am away on maternity leave and am not actively monitoring my email. Citation DeAngelis, A. I., Barlow, J., Gillies, D., & Ballance, L. T. (2022). Echolocation depths and acoustic foraging behavior of Baird's beaked whales (Berardius bairdii) based on towed hydrophone recordings. Marine Mammal Science, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.12958 Cheers, Annamaria Research Biologist NEFSC PSB Passive Acoustics Research Group <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/endangered-species-…> -- Annamaria DeAngelis Research Biologist | Passive Acoustics Research Group | NEFSC NOAA Fisheries | U.S. Department of Commerce Office: (508) 495-2105 Fax: (508) 495-2066 NEFSC PSB Passive Acoustics Research Group <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/endangered-species-…>

1 0

International Save the Vaquita Day 2022
by Thomas Jefferson 16 Aug '22

16 Aug '22

Dear MARMAMers, The vaquita is the world’s most endangered marine mammal, with an estimated 10 or so individuals surviving. This is a reminder that International Save the Vaquita Day 2022 will be this Saturday, 20 August. Due to continuing pandemic concerns, it will be a virtual event, with an all-day live-stream of talks and video content. See https://vivavaquita.org/international-save-the-vaquita-day/ for more details. Please join us on Saturday, 20 August. We appreciate your help in working to save the vaquita from extinction! Best wishes, Tom Jefferson Director, VIVA Vaquita

1 0

New Publication on Skin condition of Fin Whales in Antarctica
by Herr, Dr. Helena 16 Aug '22

16 Aug '22

Dear all, my co-authors and I would like to share with you our recent paper Herr H, Viquerat S, Naujocks T, Gregory B, Lees A, Devas F (2022) Skin condition of fin whales at Antarctic feeding grounds reveals little evidence for anthropogenic impacts and high prevalence of cookiecutter shark bite lesions published as a note in Marine Mammal Science, 2022, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.12966 We collected high-resolution video imagery of fin whales at an Antarctic feeding ground during a dedicated abundance survey, using helicopter and drone supported cameras, and used the imagery for an assessment of the skin condition. We analyzed individual fin whales, looking for conspicuous features, including injuries, abnormal coloration, scars, and parasites as indicators for exposure to natural and anthropogenic impacts. We hypothesized that typical signs for environmental and anthropogenic impacts would be evident in the animals if they had been exposed to these effects during some part of their life history. Such information would be critical with regard to management and conservation of this recovering population, to identify and to mitigate pressures. Furthermore, it could provide insights on migratory origins and habitat during the breeding season. We found little evidence for human impacts and a high prevalence of scars from cookiecutter sharks (49.5% of all fin whales). Our results provide indication that fin whales feeding at the Antarctic Peninsula likely migrate to an offshore habitat with comparably little human impact within the distributional range of cookiecutter sharks in sub-tropical to tropical waters. The paper is open access and can be downloaded at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12966 Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions. Kind regards, Helena --- Dr. Helena Herr Institute of Marine Ecosystem and Fishery Science (IMF) Center for Earth System Research and Sustainability (CEN) University of Hamburg Große Elbstraße 133 22767 Hamburg, Germany Tel +49 (0)40 42838 6677 Email helena.herr(a)uni-hamburg.de<mailto:helena.herr@uni-hamburg.de> and Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI) Section Polar Biological Oceanography AG Ecophysiology of Pelagic Key Species Am Handelshafen 12 / Building E, Room 2390 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany helena.herr(a)awi.de

1 0

Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response - Winter Internship
by Sydney P. Lundquist 15 Aug '22

15 Aug '22

The Virginia Aquarium’s Research & Conservation Division is now accepting Stranding Response Intern applications for Winter 2022-2023. Intern Application Deadline: 10/1/2022 For more information, including duties, position requirements and how to apply, visit: https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/support/work-with-us<https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.virgi…> or email vaqstranding(a)gmail.com with any questions. Position Overview Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program (VAQS) interns promote the conservation of marine animal species through research, response, rehabilitation, and education. VAQS covers all live and dead marine mammal and sea turtle strandings for the state of Virginia. Interns will be trained in all aspects of stranding response, but may be assigned a rehabilitation or necropsy focus area. Stranding work is unpredictable; therefore, experiences will vary by internship session. VAQS will provide as many learning opportunities as possible during each session. Internship * Internships will be approximately three months long, starting around November 1. We recognize that this is a tight turnaround time and can be flexible with start and end dates. * Internship positions are non-compensatory, and housing is not provided by the Virginia Aquarium. Interns are fully responsible for fulfilling all requirements of their home institutions to receive academic credit. * The intern is expected to be available 3-4 days per week, 8:00am-4:30pm. Some weekend and holiday coverage is expected. Sydney Lundquist, MPhil Stranding & Research Scientist: Field Response & Volunteer Manager Phone: (757) 385-6484 SLundqui(a)VirginiaAquarium.com<mailto:Email@VirginiaAquarium.com> Stranding Response Hotline: (757) 385-7575 Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center<http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/> 717 General Booth Blvd. Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451 [cid:48f8dc7c-8aa6-4b5d-9e86-5cfce9f83db7]

1 0

Two publications on the situation of early-career ocean professionals
by Anna Osiecka 15 Aug '22

15 Aug '22

Dear all, My colleagues and me would like to share our two recent publications on the challenges faced by the early-career ocean professionals. While these small studies were not exclusive to marine mammal researchers, they cover this field. We believe that students, early-career professionals, and people responsible for organising work- and study environments will find them of interest. Both publications are available in open access. With kindest regards, Anna Osiecka 1) Results of a survey among ERC ocean professionals, focusing on financial and social issues, as well as workplace abuse: Osiecka, A. N., Wróbel, A., Hendricks, I. W., & Osiecka-Brzeska, K. Being ERC in marince science: results of a survey among early-career marine scientists and conservationists. *Frontiers in Marine Science*, 1542. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2022.835692/full 2) Review of the ERC job market in ocean research and conservation Osiecka, A. N., Quer, S., Wróbel, A., & Osiecka-Brzeska, K. (2021). Unpaid work in marine science: a snapshot of the early-career job market. *Frontiers in Marine Science*, 1143. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2021.690163/full

1 0