October 2024 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: Breath-hold capacities and circadian dive rhythmicity shape optimal foraging strategies in a polar marine mammal, the Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii)
by Michelle Shero 29 Oct '24

29 Oct '24

Dear MARMAM community, We are happy to share our recent publication: Shero, M.R., Costa, D.P., Burns, J.M., Goetz, K.T. (2024) Breath-hold capacities and circadian dive rhythmicity shape optimal foraging strategies in a polar marine mammal, the Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii). Communications Biology 7, 1394. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-024-07029-0 Abstract: Air-breathing vertebrates must balance their response to diel shifts in prey accessibility with physiological thresholds and the need to surface after each dive. Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii) dive behaviors were tracked across the year under rapidly-changing light regimes in the Ross Sea, Antarctica ( ~ 75-77°S). This provides a ‘natural experiment’ with free-living seals experiencing 24-hrs of light (Polar Day), light/dark cycling, and continuous darkness (Polar Night). The Weddell seal’s temporal niche switches from nocturnal diving in the summer to diurnality for the remainder of the year. Rhythmicity in dive efforts (depth, duration, post-dive surface recuperation, bottom time, and exceeding physiologic thresholds) is stronger and more closely circadian during times of the year with light/dark cycling compared with Polar Day or Night. With light/dark cycling, animals also make the most extreme dives (those that far exceed the calculated aerobic dive limit, cADL) significantly earlier than solar noon. Offsetting the longest dives that require longer surface recuperation times from mid-day allows animals to maximize total dive time under high-light conditions conducive for visual hunting. We identify an optimal foraging strategy to exploit a diel preyscape in a highly-seasonal environment, while balancing tradeoffs imposed by physiological thresholds in a diving mammal. Thank you, Michelle [photo] Dr. Michelle R Shero Associate Scientist, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Every Page Foundation Scientist [icon] 266 Woods Hole Rd, MS#50, Woods Hole, MA 02543<https://maps.google.com/?q=266%20Woods%20Hole%20Rd,%20MS#50,%20Woods%20Hole…> [icon] 508-289-3961<tel:5082893961> [icon] www.shero-lab.com<https://www.shero-lab.com/> [icon] mshero(a)whoi.edu<mailto:mshero@whoi.edu> [custom_u/plyBE8VnxG3/41b8fdab-c14b-468d-9676-917a2680a551]<https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michelle-Shero-2> [twitter]<https://twitter.com/michellershero> [custom_u/plyBE8VnxG3/e36b47f6-6aa7-424a-9172-3516b45768f2]<https://www.whoi.edu/>

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ORCA Ocean Conservationist Training Course 2025
by Kate Weston 29 Oct '24

29 Oct '24

Would you like to join ORCA’s team of at-sea conservation professionals? We have an exciting opportunity to join our 2025 Ocean Conservationist Training Course. ORCA is a charity dedicated to studying and protecting whales, dolphins, and porpoises worldwide by identifying and protecting critical whale and dolphin habitats. What makes ORCA unique is our commitment to combining accessible marine education with our conservation activities, allowing ordinary people to participate in marine science and conservation. *About the Role* A key part of ORCA’s education and outreach work is delivered by the Ocean Conservation Network, on board ferries and cruise ships globally. You'll be part of the Ocean Conservationist Network for three years and will have the opportunity to work remotely at sea on different contracts, inspiring millions of passengers every year. The work on board is divided into two key areas: 1. *Inspiring the Public *- Deliver lectures and workshops to people of all ages and backgrounds. - Engage with passengers through activities throughout the ship on a more personal basis, taking every opportunity to inspire people to care about the marine environment. 2. *Data Collection *- Conduct daily wildlife watches and collect data on cetaceans using our ORCA OceanWatchers app. - Act as guides during wildlife watches, helping guests have unforgettable wildlife experiences at sea. *Who We’re Looking For* We are looking for passionate and enthusiastic science communicators - people who are able to light a spark of excitement in people of all ages and backgrounds to inspire them to take action to protect the ocean. Ocean Conservationists are the face of ORCA’s work and bring dedication and commitment to helping give everyone who cares about whales and dolphins an active role in safeguarding their future. *About the Training Course:* - *Online Training: *Part-time from January to May 2025 (note: the course is expected to require around 2-3 hours per week on average of your time, with a combination of lectures at set times and assignments to complete in your own time). - *In-person Training:* A 1-week at-sea training course in June 2025 (note: there are two slots for in-person training from 13/06/2025 to 30/06/2025). The training will provide you with - A background in ORCA and our work. - An in-depth look into the Ocean Conservationist program. - Skills to collect cetacean data using ORCA’s OceanWatchers app - Skills to run an educational programme on board. The training course is free and is open to UK and non-UK residents. *How to Apply* - *Submission:* Submit an up-to-date CV and a 2-minute video outlining why you would make a good Ocean Conservationist via the application form. - *Deadline:* Applications close on Sunday 17th November 2024 at 23:59 (UK). Applicants must complete the entire online application form to be considered. - *Contact:* If you have any questions, please email oc(a)orca.org.uk *Find out more and apply at * https://orca.org.uk/vacancies/ocean-conservationist-training-course-2025

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Veterinary Technician Student Externship Rotation - Applications close Nov. 22nd.
by Sarah Tatum 28 Oct '24

28 Oct '24

Greetings all! There is just under one month left to apply to our Veterinary Technician Student Externship Rotation for 2025 - applications are open through November 22nd, 2024. Applications are now open for the following programs, follow each link to read more and to apply: * Clinical Veterinary Student Externship Rotation in Marine Mammal Medicine and Pathology (LINKED)<https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2728287/Marine-Mam…> * Pathology Veterinary Student Externship Rotation in Marine Mammal Medicine and Pathology (LINKED)<https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2728389/Marine-Mam…> * Veterinary Anatomic Pathology Resident Rotation in Marine Mammal Medicine and Pathology (LINKED)<https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2728402/Marine-Mam…> * Veterinary Technician Student Externship Rotation (LINKED)<https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2728440/Marine-Mam…> * Marine Mammal Medicine and Pathology Veterinary Internship (LINKED)<https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2728446/Marine-Mam…> See our Veterinary Professionals webpage (LINKED)<https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/education/veterinary-professionals> for more information. OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY The Marine Mammal Center actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. The Center is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. The Marine Mammal Center believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint. OUR MISSION The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education. ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER The Marine Mammal Center is leading the field in ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue, veterinary medicine, science, and education. The Center is the largest marine mammal Teaching Hospital in the world and a critical training ground for veterinary professionals, combining high-quality animal care with hands-on learning experiences. For more information, please visit our “About Us” page at www.marinemammalcenter.org<https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/about-us/what-we-do> Thank you! Sarah [Icon Description automatically generated with low confidence] Sarah Tatum (she-her) Human Resources Operations Coordinator TatumS(a)tmmc.org<mailto:tatums@tmmc.org> | MarineMammalCenter.org<http://www.marinemammalcenter.org/> The Marine Mammal Center, 2000 Bunker Road, Sausalito, CA 94965

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SEAMAMMS 2025 to be held in Jacksonville, Florida
by Gibson, Quincy 28 Oct '24

28 Oct '24

We are pleased to announce that the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic Marine Mammal Symposium (SEAMAMMS) will be held in Jacksonville, FL on April 4-6, 2025. This year's symposium will be co-hosted by the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University. SEAMAMMS is a long-standing, regional, scientific marine mammal meeting that is held annually. This symposium is open to all presenters and is student-oriented. SEAMAMMS serves as a significant and supportive venue for graduate and undergraduate students to present their research and network with mentors and experts in the marine mammal field. Preference will be given to marine mammal research conducted in the mid-Atlantic and southeast US or conducted by students and other researchers from this region. Presentation formats include oral, speed talks, and posters; awards will be given to the best student presenter in each format at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The website is currently under construction, but we plan to have additional info available in December. We hope to see you in Jacksonville this April! Quincy -- Quincy Anne Gibson, Ph.D. Associate Professor Coastal & Marine Biology Flagship Program University of North Florida 1 UNF Drive Jacksonville, FL 32224 904.620.5938 www.unfdolphins.domains.unf.edu<http://www.unfdolphins.domains.unf.edu/>

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Call for Contributions – NAMMCO Scientific Publications, Volume 14
by NAMMCO, Intern 28 Oct '24

28 Oct '24

Dear colleagues, We are still accepting submissions for Volume 14 of the NAMMCO Scientific Publications series, focused on the theme of “Anthropogenic Impacts on Marine Mammals.” We invite researchers working on human-related disturbances affecting marine mammals in the North Atlantic to contribute their work. Submissions related to topics such as catch, by-catch, and other anthropogenic impacts are welcome, and the following formats will be considered: * Original Research Articles * Literature Reviews * Technical or Policy Notes * Workshop Reports The submission deadline is January 31st, 2025. For more information and submission guidelines, and to submit your work, please visit this link: https://septentrio.uit.no/index.php/NAMMCOSP/announcement/view/120. We look forward to your contributions! Best regards, Noor Elias

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New publication on bioacoustical metrics
by Lucke Dr., Klaus 28 Oct '24

28 Oct '24

Dear MARMAM community, We are pleased to announce the open-access publication of our paper: Title: Recommendations on Bioacoustical Metrics Relevant for Regulating Exposure to Anthropogenic Underwater Sound. Lucke, K., MacGillivray, A.O., Halvorsen, M.B., Ainslie, M.A., Zeddies, D.G., and Sisneros, J.A. 2024. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America (Vol.156, Issue 4), DOI: 10.1121/10.0028586 The publication will be part of a special issue on Verification and Validation of Source and Propagation Models for Underwater Sound and is available open access to all: https://doi.org/10.1121/10.0028586 Abstract: Metrics to be used in noise impact assessment must integrate the physical acoustic characteristics of the sound field with relevant biology of animals. Several metrics have been established to determine and regulate underwater noise exposure to aquatic fauna. However, recent advances in understanding cause-effect relationships indicate that additional metrics are needed to fully describe and quantify the impact of sound fields on aquatic fauna. Existing regulations have primarily focused on marine mammals and are based on the dichotomy of sound types as being either impulsive or non-impulsive. This classification of sound types, however, is overly simplistic and insufficient for adequate impact assessments of sound on animals. It is recommended that the definition of impulsiveness be refined by incorporating kurtosis as an additional parameter and applying an appropriate conversion factor. Auditory frequency weighting functions, which scale the importance of particular sound frequencies to account for an animal's sensitivity to those frequencies, should be applied. Minimum phase filters are recommended for calculating weighted sound pressure. Temporal observation windows should be reported as signal duration influences its detectability by animals. Acknowledging that auditory integration time differs across species and is frequency dependent, standardized temporal integration windows are proposed for various signal types. Best regards, Klaus Lucke. Dr. Klaus Lucke Fachgebiet II 2.3 "Schutz der Meere und Polargebiete" Section II 2.3 "Protection of the Seas and Polar Regions" Umweltbundesamt Wörlitzer Platz 1 06844 Dessau-Roßlau Germany Telefon: +49 (0) 340 2103 3251 Email: klaus.lucke(a)uba.de<mailto:klaus.lucke@uba.de> www.umweltbundesamt.de<http://www.umweltbundesamt.de/>

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New Paper: Photo identification of humpback whales migrating through southeastern African coastal waters
by Jennifer Olbers 28 Oct '24

28 Oct '24

Bianca Tree and co-authors are pleased to share a recent publication on photo identification of humpback whales migrating through southeastern African coastal waters. CITATION: B Tree, J Olbers, E Seyboth, SM Seakamela, VG Cockcroft, E Vermeulen & KP Findlay (2024) Migratory movement of photo-identified humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae along the southeastern coast of Africa, African Journal of Marine Science, 46:3, 191-203, DOI: 10.2989/1814232X.2024.2380882 LINK to PDF: https://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/W3FPKEFRDCIBPKWNWSWX/full?target=10.2989… ABSTRACT: The global conservation of humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae relies on continuous assessments of the populations' post-whaling status, which in turn require information on population mixing and movements. One of the seven breeding stocks in the Southern Hemisphere, breeding stock C and its associated four substocks (C1-C4), utilises the western Indian Ocean in several discrete breeding grounds. However, information on the mixing of stocks across breeding grounds is limited. This study utilises photo-identification methods applied to the first multi-regional catalogue of fluke images available for substock C1S (the southern component of substock C1) which uses the southern portion of the breeding ground, developed as part of this study, to investigate the whales' movements along the southeastern coast of southern Africa. The identification of 1 746 unique individuals, including 11 within-year matches and 48 between-year matches of 45 individuals, provides new insight into the intra-regional migration patterns, fidelity and structure of substock C1S. The within-year match results confirmed that individual humpback whales are broadly seasonally present for extended periods and visit multiple subregions along this coast, while the between-year matches revealed long-term fidelity to this coastline. Moreover, five of the between-year matches between subregions in South Africa and Mozambique linked the South African migration corridor to the breeding ground in southern and central Mozambique. These findings provide valuable insights into the movement patterns of substock C1S and significantly address the challenges of effective population management, which includes difficulties associated with the whale-watching industry on the east coast of South Africa. Please do not hesitate to contact the authors for any queries. Regards, Jennifer Olbers

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New publication: Baleen stable isotopes reveal climate-driven behavioural shifts in North Atlantic fin whales
by Marc Ruiz i Sagalés 27 Oct '24

27 Oct '24

Dear MARMAMers, We are excited to share our latest publication https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177164, which provides new insights into the effects of climate variability on the behavior of North Atlantic fin whales: <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177164> Baleen stable isotopes reveal climate-driven behavioural shifts in North Atlantic fin whales <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177164> Climate variability impacts the structure and functioning of marine ecosystems and can trigger behavioural responses in organisms. We investigated whe… doi.org Title: Baleen stable isotopes reveal climate-driven behavioural shifts in North Atlantic fin whales Authors: Marc Ruiz-Sagalés, Raquel García-Vernet, Josep Sanchez-Espigares, Sverrir D. Halldórsson, Valerie Chosson, Guðjón M. Sigurðsson, Morgana Vighi, Roger Lloret-Cabot, Asunción Borrell & Alex Aguilar Abstract: Climate variability impacts the structure and functioning of marine ecosystems and can trigger behavioural responses in organisms. We investigated whether such variability modulates diet and migration in the North Atlantic fin whale (*Balaenoptera physalus*). To reconstruct the dietary and migratory behaviours over time, we conducted stable isotope analysis of nitrogen (*δ*15N) and carbon (*δ*13C) along baleen plates from 29 fin whales sampled off southwestern (SW) Iceland in summer. We estimated a baleen growth rate of 16.1 ± 2.5 cm per year from the stable isotope oscillations observed along the baleens. We also assigned a deposition date for each baleen segment, thus obtaining isotopic sequential time series. We then assessed the potential association of these time series with the main climate patterns of the North Atlantic basin. Baleen *δ*15N and *δ*13C values are associated with the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). During high AMO and low NAO periods, which tend to decrease krill abundance, there is an increase in both the mean and standard deviation of baleen *δ*15N values, suggesting that fin whales shift to higher trophic resources and expand their dietary niche. Additionally, high AMO periods, which relate to positive temperature anomalies, lead to a decrease in baleen *δ*13C values, suggesting that fin whales adjust their migratory routes and destinations towards higher latitudes. Significant variation in isotopic niche width between years also reflected these dietary and migratory behavioural shifts. This highlights the plasticity of the North Atlantic fin whale behaviour, a trait likely to strengthen the resilience of the species within the current context of rapid and intense climate variability. Cite: Ruiz-Sagalés, M., García-Vernet, R., Sanchez-Espigares, J., Halldórsson, S. D., Chosson, V., Sigurðsson, G. M., ... & Aguilar, A. (2024). Baleen stable isotopes reveal climate-driven behavioural shifts in North Atlantic fin whales. *Science of The Total Environment*, 177164. Please feel free to reach out at mruizisag(a)ub.edu if you would like to discuss our work further. Best regards, Marc Ruiz-Sagalés and coauthors Marc Ruiz-Sagalés, PhD student Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals Institut de Recerca de la Biodiversitat (IRBio) Facultat de Biologia Universitat de Barcelona Diagonal 643 08028, Barcelona Spain

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New Publication: "Defining humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) potential distribution in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: a two-way approach"
by Coni Fariello 26 Oct '24

26 Oct '24

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the following publication: Fariello, C. M., Meynecke, J.-O., & de Bie, J. (2024). Defining humpback whale (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) potential distribution in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: A two-way approach. *Pacific Conservation Biology*, 30, PC23032. https://doi.org/10.1071/PC23032 *Context*. Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) populations have been recovering from whaling but are now facing threats from changing food availability due to ocean warming and changes in habitat suitability. There is uncertainty over whether opportunistic observations can produce reliable species distribution models (SDMs) and adequately inform conservation management. *Aims.* To compare SDMs for humpback whales in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park based on different opportunistic sightings datasets and evaluate the impact different sources of opportunistic data have on our understanding of humpback whale habitat relationships. *Methods.* Maximum entropy modelling (Maxent) was used to create predictive models for humpback whale distributions. Sighting data from citizen science and opportunistic observations from various other databases were used. Models were compared to evaluate disparities and predictive capabilities. *Key results.* Distinct environmental variables [bathymetry, distance to the coast] were identified as the most relevant for each SDM. The best-fitting model diverged from an existing model, with humpback whale distribution predicted to be closer to shore. Areas with the highest habitat suitability were concentrated in the north-eastern coastal region across all models developed in this study. *Conclusions. *This study demonstrates that, with careful application and consideration, citizen science data can enhance our understanding of humpback whale distributions and contribute to their conservation. The research underlines the importance of embracing diverse data sources in SDM, despite the challenges posed by opportunistic data. *Implications.* The study provides valuable insights for conservation management and informs strategies to protect humpback whale populations in changing environmental conditions. *Keywords:* citizen science, climate change, GBRMP, humpback whale, Maxent, Megaptera novaeangliae, opportunistic data, SDM, species distribution model. The paper is available via the following link: (PDF) Defining humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) potential distribution in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: a two-way approach <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380855755_Defining_humpback_whale_…> Best regards, Ing. Consuelo Fariello PhD Candidate Griffith University

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2025 Scientific Training Program on Dolphin Research
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 24 Oct '24

24 Oct '24

Dear colleagues, The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) is pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for our 2025 Scientific Training Program, which coincides with our 20th anniversary! Since 2005, BDRI has been committed to understanding and conserving marine mammals and their habitats, while nurturing young scientists from diverse backgrounds. Over the years, we’ve welcomed more than 1500 students from over 60 countries. Our training program prepares students for professional careers in marine mammal research and conservation, offering a unique opportunity to work alongside a multidisciplinary team of scientists, including internationally renowned experts. Participants will engage in cutting-edge research on a wide range of marine species, with hands-on involvement in field data collection and laboratory analysis. Projects include boat-based surveys, land-based observations, bioacoustics, photo-identification, ecological modelling, diet analysis, and more. Our program fosters a collaborative environment where English is the everyday working language, enabling interns from all over the world to connect and share knowledge. Students are also encouraged to undertake thesis projects in our dynamic, international, and competitive research environment. BDRI's main research topics focus on ecology, ethology, and bioacoustics, with a particular emphasis on dolphins, porpoises, baleen whales, marine birds, sharks, and otters in Atlantic waters. Special focus is given to the study of common bottlenose dolphins. We welcome highly motivated bachelor and master students in fields such as zoology, marine biology, veterinary science, and related disciplines to apply for thesis projects at BDRI. Program Details: - Duration: A minimum commitment of 4 consecutive weeks between January 13th and November 28th, 2025. - Location: O Grove (Galicia, NW Spain), a region renowned for its rich marine biodiversity. - Accommodation: Shared housing is provided in O Grove. - Tuition Fee: A fee is required to cover tuition, training, equipment use, accommodation, insurances, and other related expenses. This reflects the real-world costs necessary to support our educational and research initiatives. - How to Apply: Interested candidates can find more details at <https://www.thebdri.com/internships.html>. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage early submissions. Positions are open until filled. To ensure a quality experience, we restrict groups to a maximum of 15 participants. For more information, please contact us at internship(a)thebdri.com. BDRI’s reputation for excellence is demonstrated by the publication of numerous studies in prestigious scientific journals. In 2024, the BDRI team contributed to several impactful scientific articles. For a full list of our publications, please visit: https://www.thebdri.com/papers.html. Here are some examples of our latest research: - Diaz Lopez B, Methion S (2024). Killer whales habitat suitability in the Iberian Peninsula and the Gulf of Biscay: Implications for conservation. Ocean & Coastal Management, 255, p.107245. - Neves J, Methion S, Diaz Lopez B (2024). Relationship between skin and body condition in three species of baleen whales. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms, 159:99-115. - Diaz Lopez B, Methion S (2024). Habitat use by Iberian harbour porpoises: ecological and human factors. Marine Biology, 171, 113. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00227-024-04438-x - Pierce GJ, et al. (2024). An endangered population of harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena hidden in plain sight: biology, ecology, and conservation of the Iberian porpoise. Oceanography and Marine Biology: An Annual Review, 62:1-119. Join us in celebrating 20 years of marine research and take part in a unique training experience that will stand out on your resume! We look forward to seeing you in Spain! Warm regards, Bruno Diaz Lopez Ph.D Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI - www.thebdri.com Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, Spain Tel. 0034 684248552 he/him/his ResearchGate - GoogleScholar -https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0388-3289 Follow BDRI (@thebdri) on Facebook and Instagram. This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). Thank you for your cooperation.

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