December 2024 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Post Doc Opportunity
by Ailbhe Kavanagh 06 Dec '24

06 Dec '24

Dear Colleagues, The Marine Institute Galway Ireland is recruiting a *Post Doctoral Researcher to work on bycatch issues relating to ETP species (including marine mammals), *as part a large European project. Position is for 48 months. Closing date is the 8th of January. The role will involve developing a modelling framework to design monitoring programmes, estimating bycatch probability, bycatch rates, and total bycatch for marine mammal and other species; using outcomes of mitigation trials to assess the effect of mitigation measures for ETP species including marine mammals; and developing a decision support simulation system for bycatch management and mitigation interventions. The Post-Doctoral Researcher will work closely with the Marine Institute’s CIBBRiNA project lead, as well as with colleagues in the Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), to deliver research for the CIBBRiNA project. The CIBBRiNA project (Coordinated Development and Implementation of Best Practice in Bycatch Reduction in the North Atlantic region) aims to improve knowledge and understanding to minimise and where possible eliminate incidental bycatch of species, including marine mammals, in fisheries which have high risk of bycatch of protected, endangered and threatened species (PETS), in European waters. *Educational and Professional Requirements:* • A relevant PhD in fisheries science, marine science, statistical ecology or a related field. • An understanding of issues related to bycatch in European fisheries. • Demonstrated experience of working in the arena of fisheries and/or marine ecosystem modelling or similar. • Demonstrated skills in data analysis linked to marine ecological/fisheries science, with particular experience in statistical modelling. • Strong data handling and data manipulation skills (e.g., experience developing pipelines to handle complex relational data). • Experienced in hierarchical statistical modelling (ideally implemented in R) and a good grasp of statistical inference from multi-scale longitudinal data. • Ability to work with and effectively communicate with scientists, the fishing industry and other relevant stakeholders. • Proven Scientific Report and peer reviewed paper writing skills. • Proven ability to produce reproducible code. Please read a detailed job description here: https://www.marine.ie/site-area/working-us/postdoctoral-researcher-%E2%80%9… If you have any questions please contact Dr Ailbhe Kavanagh ( ailbhe.kavanagh(a)marine.ie) Kind Regards / Le gach dea-mhéin Dr Ailbhe Kavanagh *~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~* *I have sent this email at a time that is convenient for me.* *I do not expect you to respond to it outside of your own usual working hours.* *~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~* *Ailbhe Kavanagh *MSc PhD Ale-Va; she/her (why is this here?) <https://www.cultureamp.com/blog/gender-pronouns-in-workplace> Team Lead Bycatch Ecosystems Team, Fisheries Ecosystems and Advisory Services Foras na Mara, Marine Institute <https://www.marine.ie/>, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland H91 R673 Email: ailbhe.kavanagh(a)marine.ie ORCID <https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4671-3076> Google Scholar <https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=2DMLafAAAAAJ&hl=en> LinkedIn <https://ie.linkedin.com/in/ailbhe-kavanagh-16b451244> [image: Marine Institute] *~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*

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New publication: Agent-based modelling of southward coastal migration by humpback whale mother–calf pods off eastern Australia
by Jasper De Bie 05 Dec '24

05 Dec '24

Dear MARMAM community, We are pleased to announce our recent study, published in Marine Mammal Science: De Bie, J., Lee, S. B., Meynecke, J.-O., Seyboth, E., Samanta, S., Vichi, M., Roychoudhury, A. & Mackey, B. (2024). Agent-based modelling of southward coastal migration by humpback whale mother–calf pods off eastern Australia. Marine Mammal Science, e13203. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/mms.13203 Abstract Humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae encounter a variety of environmental conditions during seasonal migration between feeding grounds and breeding grounds. Relationships between environmental conditions and migratory movements are largely unknown due to a lack of oceanographic data coincident with their presence/absence. We begin to address this knowledge gap by developing a new agent-based modelling (ABM) approach designed to predict southward migration of mother–calf (MC) pairs along a stretch of the east Australian coast between the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) and Gold Coast (GC) bay, which includes a known resting area, Hervey Bay (HB). To assess our ability to reproduce observed migration patterns, numerical experiments were undertaken in which static (bathymetry) and dynamic (currents, sea surface temperature) variables between August and October 2017 governed movements. These experiments revealed how bathymetry influences HB usage, and a necessity to apply different directionality preferences to whales before and after negotiating HB, which appear to closely align with coastline orientation. The ABM provides a novel, suitable framework for simulating MC humpback whale migration, and an important first step in the development of predictive models of humpback whale behavior. Developing such tools is increasingly necessary to predict how changing ocean conditions are likely to affect their distribution. For queries or discussions, please feel free to contact me Best wishes, Jasper Dr Jasper de Bie | Research Fellow Coastal and Marine Research Centre Griffith University | Gold Coast campus | QLD 4222 | Australia T +61 7 555 27821 | E J.DeBie(a)griffith.edu.au<mailto:J.DeBie@griffith.edu.au>

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New publication: Northern fur seal whisker bioaccumulation and partitioning of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and organochlorines
by Amy Hirons 05 Dec '24

05 Dec '24

New publication: Northern fur seal whisker bioaccumulation and partitioning of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and organochlorines My co-authors and I would like to share our recent publication in Emerging Contaminants: Courtney M. White, Dimitrios G. Giarikos, Amy C. Hirons (2024) Northern fur seal whisker bioaccumulation and partitioning of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and organochlorines. Emerging Contaminants. Abstract: The eastern Pacific stock of northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) on the Pribilof Islands, Alaska represents over 50 % of the global breeding population, but it has experienced population declines of unknown cause(s) since 1980. One contributing factor to the decline may be exposure to anthropogenic contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) which are biologically accumulative in nature, toxic to organisms, and environmentally persistent. This study conducted a decadal comparison of 21 organochlorine (OC) and 39 polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) analyte concentrations utilizing archived vibrissae (whiskers) from individual fur seals sampled in 1993 (n = 30) and 2013 (n = 41) during subsistence harvests on the Pribilof Islands. The recently phased out PBDEs had values five times greater than the legacy status OCs, reflecting both the global shift away from chlorinated chemicals over the past 50 years and the widespread use of brominated flame retardants within the past two decades. No significant mean concentration differences were detected between 1993 and 2013 for total organochlorines (SOCs) (266 and 294 ng/g, respectively), or total polybrominated diphenyl ethers (SPBDEs) (1377 and 1521 ng/g, respectively), indicating the enduring environmental presence of these pollutants. Recently phased out PBDEs were detected at five times greater concentrations than phased out OCs. The presence of all analytes in vibrissae indicate that there is an adaptive advantage to partitioning contaminants into this inert tissue, suggesting keratinous tissue is a reliable matrix for assessing long-term for POP exposure and introducing the potential for less invasive sampling for future monitoring efforts. Northern fur seal whisker bioaccumulation and partitioning of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and organochlorines (sciencedirectassets.com)<https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/312986/1-s2.0-S2405665024X00049/1-s2.0-S2405665024001409/main.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEGQaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJGMEQCIA31loCYe2fMmTjABoGWCbSKRdaQrM15TiXmTvKE2oi0AiAO0yZpV8uWzhk4KsK%2BU9YW92ROSGj%2FEYfaj89et4XiWSqzBQgdEAUaDDA1OTAwMzU0Njg2NSIM56YWy2zuyl0vJkdAKpAFWOvw7cWt%2BGuWpCpdsjIfX8MysO3Nz%2Fa9KEnFB3vjCnIhatwfK85l2EwEuosbVR6G%2BoVsdv9Z22YdjIZaJOlJ6IGUa%2Bg34hnn7xH92gFoYQkikTefMQ5SQNfcjpaGPjXrRPJGw0eg6k9L0RpUeFznVNpT0EC9Jtpw4NGdjRF7UNVVcltavz1wJ%2F8IkOBoLZn%2FVn9qwtdB%2FNJxRJjLtosisCsU2PEUQoZhp2KLTEv%2BSh%2Fe7zpNBKkiKG0V1DG%2BTX%2F3gMsPPkyT4vfTlTnySmQc6N%2Bh%2F%2B7VF84kc%2BE0QmWdbWHpxN%2BHVxIOi1WjYvC9Ncjbtd9EytpAbVYsUqR%2BEl%2BdxGbi%2F%2FHdkUywmsoCBkTU1laSn72cCww8nt1naGvFzTBcHnhfBzmStQzI9VckMyxTcdlW8ljh0TyXV0PZCSQXbEQHNYN5XZb1EtuXxWpItkj%2BpvplFH1W0PcivjsGmxcB4u%2FFegp9lw%2Fb%2Bb8w%2FR4Si66ZYGwwjCJWh4SdojJKC%2FnxM6DGpRwrUsvd1DH9odRNQEaginqcR7xKF%2B5%2FQ4yLgOAdqrpUvqA5wYNKnaR1lUIpDaO8BserxJ6%2FepPytaWaSyyCoUDWwiORwKhcj%2BVNA6wPQoI5A2dultd0Jgk9KQoOksmu%2FiiE00YGMVaV%2FHAHTpj7afFgQIYLcK3m7ty%2BkCWfT3zEjWaSYtcEZogYrRnV3uHX9MSzz%2FNdlPaVWPbWogg5VmmDyNhQdUbVHHA5af6S6i1IWATvLybYMsHG5ESXuyjaMlRM0m779QXWIDGFg3MlwCm5cSgpBzgi5IM1jtG9%2FLACOr3m5kaQ6kG81xu9MGWjm%2BnPQkzDDWAtTp3MBAJYpfZPR7Z4CqZu85d07dsw%2BYXIugY6sgG567co64bvSOQPn9XUTN4gQabO3XHHY9tY90lLI9bhnDGcKExFKJSfWKIvDqbfzkdkfqUtRVq%2BtDZP0iW%2FuduPh%2F4JTIIW5maaD9zvFOueEJz%2Bh3DJvZNYrKYLgYrIy99ip%2B%2BDDv6yZQOOAmD8eGINSR0SoXU7%2FTiVFhOGtx5zdNjinWoMEeSsyH0qD6IhR1HcZbID%2F20RuEm8XvXgU12GmGdZ5bFW4TbnOX1Zi3AYMwnv&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20241205T205619Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTYRX6C6HPB%2F20241205%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=35647174bbee1ac7a469b81f691d23e26e35b6fe70cca607f4e7e1cb08589ef3&hash=587c65b4137d1dd214b2197fbf1c2bbfceea6966b061f65fb307c68140d777d8&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S2405665024001409&tid=spdf-61ddb87c-210c-4981-b398-ffbac15fef07&sid=59d18be899a4874352993ef8b39f6e3d5483gxrqa&type=client&tsoh=d3d3LnNjaWVuY2VkaXJlY3QuY29t&ua=13175f0a025308555557&rr=8ed6f130a826a545&cc=us> Amy C. Hirons, PhD Professor Director, Charismatic Megafauna and Oceanography Laboratory Halmos College of Arts and Sciences and the Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center Nova Southeastern University 8000 North Ocean Drive Dania Beach, FL 33004 (o) 954-262-3620 (f) 954-262-4098 hirons(a)nova.edu Pronouns: she, her(s) hirons(a)nova.edu<mailto:hirons@nova.edu> https://works.bepress.com/amy-hirons/about/ https://charismaticmegafauna.wixsite.com/cmol-nsu http://nsuoc-cmol.weebly.com/ [cid:d03c2567-0010-4f76-86bb-08b3b2465f51][cid:f82f201a-a7a5-41e1-b90f-342beeb8658d]

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Seasonal Stranding Response Technician Opportunity with National Aquarium
by Shaffer, Kate 04 Dec '24

04 Dec '24

The National Aquarium is seeking applicants to fill the seasonal Stranding Response Technician role based out of our Stranding Response Center in Ocean City Maryland. Please share this with your networks. Qualified applicants can apply at the following link: https://recruiting.ultipro.com/NAT1020NAQUA/JobBoard/807a3c85-8038-7ec5-5c5… Job Title: Stranding Response Technician Posting Date: 12/4/2024 Job Department: Animal Rescue - 290 Schedule: Full Time Seasonal (January-June 2025) Job Type: On-site Location: National Aquarium Pier Stranding Response Center- Ocean City Municipal Complex, 65th Street, Ocean City, MD. (410) 576-8532 JOB SUMMARY: The National Aquarium is seeking a Stranding Response Technician (Full-Time Seasonal through June 2025). The Stranding Response Technician will be providing regional emergency field response to and disposition of live-stranded marine animals and performing triage operations under the direction of the Stranding Response & Triage Manager. This position supports improving the capacity for field response to emergency events involving live marine mammals and sea turtles in Maryland. As scheduled, provide rotating after hours on-call coverage of the 24-hr Stranding Hotline. NOTE: This is a field position and will be based out of the National Aquarium's Stranding Response Center located in Ocean City, MD. The final candidate will be expected to reside in close proximity to this facility to ensure timely response to animal emergencies. KEY REQUIREMENTS: Essential responsibilities include: * Lead incident response and triage of live stranded marine mammals and sea turtles along the Atlantic Coast and Eastern Shore of Maryland, according to established protocols. * Dispatch and coordinate volunteers, ensuring clear communication of roles and responsibilities, while prioritizing human and animal safety and well-being throughout the event. Provide exemplary care, welfare, and final disposition of stranded animals under the care of the National Aquarium in the field and in triage, including humane euthanasia cases, in conjunction with the Stranding Response Manager and veterinarians. * Lead care and treatment of pinnipeds and sea turtles undergoing triage, in conjunction with veterinarians and the Stranding Response & Triage Manager. * Accountable for the safe restraint and handling of animals during husbandry and clinical procedures. * Ensures accuracy of all stranding related records (animal, accession, and related) in accordance with federal and Aquarium standards using animal management software and hardcopy files. * Conduct necropsy of animals, in conjunction with veterinarians and MD Department of Natural Resources. * Improves capacity for field response to emergency events involving marine mammals and sea turtles, including mass strandings, live large whales, hazardous material spills, UME’s, natural disasters, out of habitat situations, and entanglement cases. * Implements Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Incident Action Plans (IAPs) related to stranding response; manages events under the Incident Command System and ensures volunteer and animal safety. * Maintains the triage facility; ensure readiness by maintaining equipment and supplies necessary for response, recovery, transport, and triage. * Implement Animal Rescue outreach activities and programs related to stranding response, with the goal of engaging the public and youth in action-oriented programs. * As scheduled, provide rotating after hours on-call coverage of the 24-hr Stranding Hotline, and provide exemplary customer service. * Communicates with the Regional and National Stranding Networks; collaborates with federal (NOAA Fisheries Service and US Fish and Wildlife Service), state (MD Department of Natural Resources) and local municipalities, as well as regional partners in matters relating to live-stranded marine mammals or sea turtles. * Supports digital content needs including photos, video, and website stories. Assists with public and media relations as directed. * Other duties as assigned or required QUALIFICATIONS: Required: * Bachelor’s degree in biology, aquatic sciences, environmental or related science or equivalent experience * Minimum of two years previous professional work experience with a stranding response and/or rehabilitation organization including experience working with live pinnipeds * Employees assigned to this position must possess and maintain a valid and current motor vehicle operator’s license, have an acceptable driving record, and possess the ability to drive a variety of vehicles (cars, vans/trucks) * Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays and evenings * Ability to climb ladders, lift and carry 50 lbs, and physically restrain large, wild animals Preferred: * Ability and willingness to mentor and train interns and volunteers * Familiarity with electronic animal record keeping software systems (i.e. Tracks, ZIMS, etc.) * CPR/AED and basic First-Aid Certification * 24hr HAZWOPER Certification Competencies: * Must have detailed knowledge about marine mammal and/or sea turtle biology and have an affinity for wild animals, including a reasonable comfort level around large and/or aggressive animals. * Competent regarding wound treatment, preparation and administration of oral and injectable medications, basic diagnostics, and familiar with quarantine protocols. * Must be able to apply solid knowledge of biology to a stranding response & triage setting. * Adept at observation and the ability to watch for changes in patient health and monitor changes in behavior. * Must have the capacity to make decisions, based on the best interest of the animals, public health, and staff safety. * Must be able to work productively in a teamwork environment. * Familiarity with computers is necessary, including MS Office software (Word/Excel/Teams), Zoom, and Adobe; ability to learn & effectively use all proprietary Aquarium software. * Must be able to follow established policies and protocols. * Must be able to work well under direction and have capacity to absorb feedback from manager or staff and have the capacity to decide when to act independently and when to seek consultation from manager. TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION: Salary range ($43,880-49,475 Annual) National Aquarium provides an excellent benefits package, including paid time off, six paid floating holidays, up to four weeks of paid family leave and conservation day leave. Employees are eligible for health care (single and family) after 30 days of full-time work and 401(k) plan participation with employer match available. Employees receive a family membership package and Aquarium tickets. NOTE: This opportunity is for a six-month period from January to June. About the National Aquarium Established in 1981, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. The Aquarium’s award-winning habitats are home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. We are proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and exceed industry standards in all aspects of animal care and welfare. More than 1.2 million people visit the Aquarium each year to experience our immersive exhibits, and we reach far more through our science-based education programs and hands-on field conservation work. The National Aquarium is one of the top three aquariums in the United States and the largest paid cultural attraction in Maryland. Our Mission and Goals The Aquarium’s mission—to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet—begins within the walls of its buildings, but it does not end there. The Aquarium protects, enhances and restores natural resources through education and engagement, habitat restoration, animal rescue and sustainable business practices, with its conservation work guided by three overarching goals—to combat climate change, save wildlife and habitats, and stop plastic pollution. Our Values At the National Aquarium, our core values form the basis for our beliefs about our organization, our colleagues and ourselves, and serve as the framework to guide our behaviors and actions to achieve our mission. Connection: We take the time to build lasting connections with each other, our guests, the animals in our care and the nature that surrounds us. We communicate clearly and collaborate readily within and across teams. We engage thoughtfully with our partners. We practice shared accountability. Curiosity: We center learning and growth in all that we do. Our people are empowered to explore new approaches. We support taking risks. We value diverse perspectives and bold ideas. We embrace change. Optimism: We celebrate the power of positive moments and shared experiences. We seek out opportunities to have fun. We reconnect with our purpose through sharing successes with our colleagues. Service: We are in service to each other, our guests and our communities. We make intentional decisions and actions for the benefit of the people and animals within our organization. Wellbeing: We ensure our people and animals have what they need mentally and physically to thrive. We are committed to improving the wellbeing of communities and sharing the healing power of natural for all. Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice National Aquarium values an inclusive and diverse environment for all employees, volunteers, and interns. Our goal is to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a candidate pool representative of the variety of communities we serve. With a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, the Aquarium is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and promotes an environment free from all discrimination and harassment. In the selection and retention of employees, volunteers, and interns, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social, or ethnic origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical, mental, or sensory disability, sex (including pregnancy or childbirth), marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, arrest record, family or caregiver status, HIV status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Our organization is dedicated to this policy with respect to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruitment, training, promotions, performance management, and separation, and general treatment during time of employment. KATE SHAFFER Stranding Response and Triage Manager 410-986-2378 443-890-0790 KShaffer(a)aqua.org aqua.org We are a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. National Aquarium Stranding Response Center 6405 Seabay Drive Bldg #2600 Ocean City, MD 21842 Report sick or injured marinelife to our stranding hotline: 410-576-3880 Please consider our ocean planet before printing. [NAISIG1]

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Northcoast Marine Mammal Center Spring Internship
by Karen Helms 04 Dec '24

04 Dec '24

Spring Internship - Marine Mammal Rescue/Rehabilitation The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center in Crescent City, California, is accepting applications for Spring internships in marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, and public education. Internships are 12-14 weeks and the spring term begins on March 1, 2025. The internships include a $1,000 stipend. Applicants will live and work in Crescent City. Intern duties include: * marine mammal rescue and health assessment * diet preparation and feeding * wound care and medication administration * blood draw and subcutaneous fluid * cleaning enclosures, pools, and kennels daily * facility/equipment maintenance and cleaning tasks * fundraising events and special projects * engaging with the public in our gift shop * observing surgical procedures and necropsy * additional tasks as needed Requirements: * Must be a minimum of 21 years of age * a recent graduate or actively pursuing a degree in marine biology, zoology, or veterinary * physically fit with the ability to lift 50lbs and hike long distances in adverse conditions * available to work 5 days a week including evenings, weekends, and holidays * self-motivated, articulate, reliable, and responsible * works well independently and in a team * must possess a valid driver’s license * must have experience with Microsoft Office, Word and Excel Preferred Qualifications, but not required: * previous experience in a marine mammal field * previous experience working with the public Additional Information: * interns are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution for university credit. * this is an unpaid position with no housing provided, however, we do offer a $1,000 housing stipend (in 3 payments) * all interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation * a vehicle is preferred as public transportation is very limited and will restrict participation in some areas * internship requires a minimum commitment of 12 weeks * spring term begins on March 1, 2025 To Apply: please include the following and submit via email to volunteer(a)northcoastmmc.org<mailto:volunteer@northcoastmmc.org>. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. No phone calls or faxes please. * a cover letter that includes term start date * a current curriculum vitae or resume * three references familiar with the applicant's academic/professional performance

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New Publication - Review of humpback whaling in the Southern Hemisphere
by Elisa Seyboth 03 Dec '24

03 Dec '24

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are happy to share our recent publication at the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management as detailed below. Seyboth, E, S. Paarman, C. Allison, J-O. Meynecke, J. de Bie, K.P. Findlay (2024). A review of Southern Hemisphere humpback whaling by period and catch location. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management, 25, 123-162. https://doi.org/10.47536/jcrm.v25i1.859 Abstract: Comprehensive Assessments of the seven Southern Hemisphere humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) breeding stocks require an understanding of their respective catch histories. A lack of information on humpback whale catches from American, British and French open‐boat (or pre‐modern) pelagic and land‐based whaling from 1760 to the late 1920s from some fleets precludes detailed estimations of catch histories from this era. We therefore provide a review of the whaling of the species across the Southern Hemisphere by modern whaling period, during which some 215,928 humpback whales are estimated to have been taken between 1903 and 1973, comprising land‐based, moored floating factory, and both regulated and unregulated illegal pelagic whaling. Between 1904 and 1914, humpback whales were the main catch at South Georgia and the South Shetland Islands, while, at further Southern Ocean land stations, catch efforts were carried out from the South Orkney, the South Sandwich and Kerguelen Archipelagos, with more limited success. Off the coasts of South America, humpback whales were taken off the west coast and from the Brazilian coast between 1905 and 1963. Southern African catch records show extensive humpback catches from whaling stations across the coast from Madagascar to Gabon from 1908 to 1963, as do catch records from Australia and New Zealand across the same period. A rapid growth in pelagic whaling across the Southern Ocean from 1923 onwards resulted in extensive humpback catches until 1963, despite significant temporal and spatial restrictions. Although humpback whales were totally protected across the Southern Hemisphere by the International Whaling Commission from October 1963, the Soviet Union fleets violated catch and reporting regulations from 1947 to 1973, resulting in significant illegal catches. Additional unregulated catches were made by the Olympic Challenger fleet between 1950 and 1955 in the Antarctic and off the west coast of South America. The information compiled in this review is critical to the evaluation of the whaling impact on each breeding stock, and for future status assessments of the species, and can provide evidence of the historical distributions of the species in breeding and feeding grounds. Please reach out if you are interested in discussing the topic: elisa.seyboth(a)up.ac.za With best wishes, Elisa. -- Dr Elisa Seyboth Postdoctoral Research Fellow Mammal Research Institute Whale Unit Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences University of Pretoria, South Africa Collaborating Researcher Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG - Brazil Tel.: +27 082 420 2047 www.researchgate.net/profile/Elisa_Seyboth<http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Elisa_Seyboth><http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Elisa_Seyboth>

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Whalepoint volunteer positions 2025
by Hermann Meuter 03 Dec '24

03 Dec '24

CetaceaLab, aka Whalepoint, is a land-based whale research station located in the tradional territory of the Gitga’at First Nation on Gil Island, British Columbia, Canada. We are now accepting applications for the 2025 field season from June until the end of September. All positions are for 4-8 weeks in duration. These are volunteer/intern positions to help with the collection of visual and acoustic data on the habitat use and abundance of northern resident/transient Killer Whales, Humpback Whales and Fin Whales. Due to our extreme remote location, applicants need to be in good physical condition, able to participate in daily routine of living off the grid and comfortable sleeping in a tent in the wilderness of BC. There are no roads, very limited Internet access and very limited medical service. Daily shifts involve: - scanning for marine mammals, documenting all sightings and behaviour and identifying whales. - listening to and recording all whale vocalizations that are transmitted to the lab facility from our network of hydrophone stations - Data entry from land based and marine vessel-based surveys. - Identification work of all whales from photographs taken in the field. Experience in carpentry, electronics, social media and website building would be a valuable asset. Due to our extreme remote location, there will be a weekly fee for food. Interested applicants should send their CV and a letter of motivation to: whalepoint(a)outlook.com<mailto:whalepoint@outlook.com> References will be contacted. More information about our research can be found at: www.whalepoint.org<http://www.whalepoint.org> All the Best and Good Luck, Hermann Meuter

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Graduate Position: Univ. Leeds UK, Pinniped Genomics
by Simon Goodman 03 Dec '24

03 Dec '24

Funded PhD Opportunity, University of Leeds, UK: Deadline 8th January 2025 The evolutionary genomics of life-history adaptations in pinnipeds Pinnipeds (seals, sea lions, fur seals and walrus) are keystone marine predators, and sentinels for marine ecosystem health. Advances in genomics technologies are opening up the possibility to identify and dissect the genetics and molecular evolution underlying the adaptions of pinnipeds to the marine environment and the startling variation in ecology and life history present within the family. Understanding these mechanisms not only provides fundamental insights into the process of evolution, but is also important for assessing species vulnerability and responses to potential future environmental change. Some of the unique adaptions of pinnipeds may also be of relevance to human health and therapeutics. This project will build on rapidly growing genomic resources for pinnipeds, including de novo seal genome assemblies generated by the Goodman/O’Connell labs and other colleagues in the Pinniped Genome Consortium. These provide an opportunity to use comparative genomics to examine key aspects of pinniped ecology and evolution including physiological adaptations underpinning different life-history strategies. For example, adult body size can range from less than 100kg in Caspian seals to more than 2000kg for male elephant seals, while weaning times vary from 4-12 days in hooded and harp seals up to 18 months in some sea lions, and 2 years in the walrus. Pinnipeds have also evolved lipid rich milk, with fat content for some species exceeding 60%. The ecological drivers of these differences appear to be related to breeding substrates and ecological feeding niche exploited by species. In previous work we have identified 100s of genes that show signatures of adaptive evolution unique to different pinniped lineages and species which may underpin these adaptations. Many of these genes are associated with key elements of lipid metabolism and milk properties. Our next aim is to understand how these genes have evolved across the pinniped lineage, and how past environmental changes created selection pressures shaping their evolution, and the evolution of pinnipeds overall. To do this we will use a variety of genomic approaches including de novo sequencing of seal genomes, molecular evolution and phylogenomic analyses, and population genetic studies at the genomic level. Secondly, we will also use multiomic approaches to understand the functional significance of amino acid substitutions between species in subsets of genes strongly associated with our traits of interest, and will evaluate how changes in gene expression might also contribute to evolution of traits such high fat content in pinniped milk, and tolerance of rapid fluxes of lipid in and out of blubber. Resolving the genomic basis of such adaptations is important for understanding many aspects of pinniped biology, but may also contribute to predicting adaptive responses of pinniped species to future climate change and loss of sea ice. Extended project description: https://yes-dtn.ac.uk/research/the-evolutionary-genomics-of-life-history-ad… How to apply: https://yes-dtn.ac.uk/application-information/ Supervisors Dr Simon Goodman, Dr Ian Carr (University of Leeds) Dr Kimberley Bennett (Abertay University) Prof Mary O'Connell (University of Nottingham) Informal inquiries: Dr Simon Goodman - s.j.goodman(a)leeds.ac.uk, https://goodmanlab.org/ Eligibility and Funding Information: Competition-funded via NERC YES-DTN starting from October 2025. UK or International students eligible to apply. ============================================================ Dr Simon Goodman School of Biology, University of Leeds Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK Tel: +44-(0)113-3432561 Email: s.j.goodman(a)leeds.ac.uk<mailto:s.j.goodman@leeds.ac.uk> Web: http://www.goodmanlab.org/ Twitter: @DrSimon_Goodman BlueSky: @phoca-sapiens.bsky.social Sustainable Ecosystems and Adaptation Research Pillar Lead, Ecology & Evolution Research Group Lead, School of Biology Director of PGR Studies, School of Biology ============================================================

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Article published - Energetic savings of bow-riding dolphins
by Fiori, Lorenzo 03 Dec '24

03 Dec '24

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of all authors, we are pleased to announce our recent publication in Scientific Reports: Fiori, L., Davis, R.W., Würsig, B., Orbach, D.N. 2024. Energetic savings of bow-riding dolphins. Scientific Reports 14:30056. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-81920-y ABSTRACT: Bow-riding occurs when dolphins swim in the pressure waves at the front of a vessel. Bow-riding is hypothesized to be “fun” for dolphins or to save them energy although the energetics have not been explored. An UAS (Unoccupied Aerial System) was used to follow and video-record adult dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) bow-riding in front of a research vessel or free-swimming off Kaikoura, New Zealand. Videos of individual dolphins swimming in a linear direction at consistent speeds were analyzed with respiration rate used as a proxy for energy expenditure (bow riding n = 51; free-swimming n = 62). The respiration rates of bow-riding dolphins remained relatively constant across swimming speeds and were 45% lower than free-swimming dolphins at speeds exceeding 4 m/s, indicating substantial energetic savings. The respiration rates of free-swimming dolphins increased exponentially with speed, suggesting that dolphins incur comparatively high energetic expenditures from swimming rapidly. This research advances understanding of the biological function of bow-riding behavior and supports the energy saving hypothesis. Swimming energetics can be used to assess the impacts of anthropogenic disturbances to dolphin energy budgets. Open access to the article is available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-81920-y Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Best, Lorenzo Fiori, Ph.D. Postdoctoral Research Associate Department of Life Sciences Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi 6300 Ocean Dr. Tidal Hall 324

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New publication: Assessing the reliability of species distribution models under changing environments: A case study on cetaceans in the North-East Atlantic
by Pigeault, Rémi 03 Dec '24

03 Dec '24

Dear Colleagues, We are excited to share with you our new publication 'Assessing the reliability of species distribution models under changing environments: A case study on cetaceans in the North-East Atlantic', published in Global Ecology and Conservation: Pigeault, R., Authier, M., Ramirez-Martinez, N. C., Virgili, A., Geelhoed, S. C., Haelters, J., Louzao, M., Saaveedra, C. & Gilles, A. (2024). Assessing the reliability of species distribution models under changing environments: a case study on cetaceans in the North-East Atlantic. Global Ecology and Conservation, e03299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03299 Using the cetacean survey data collected in the North-East Atlantic from 2005 to 2020 and a set of covariates commonly used to predict cetacean distribution with species distribution models (SDMs), we investigated the periods, regions and environments where SDM predictions depended on modelling choices due to the small amount of environmentally similar calibration data. To do so, we used 2 well-established metrics (extrapolations and nearby data in the environmental space) on monthly prediction grids from 2005 to 2020 in the North-East Atlantic. The results showed that, following the coverage effort, predictions in environments associated with shallow waters and moderate temperatures were largely supported by the calibration dataset. The number of data supporting predictions decreased significantly in deep waters due to the logistic constraints associated with surveying offshore areas. Other variations in predictive reliability were also observed depending on primary productivity, seabed slope and cold/warm temperatures in the study area, as these variables vary greatly between regions and over time. This study provides additional information on the potential to build reliable species distribution models in the region, and sheds light on periods, areas and environments where current environmental gaps can be filled by future surveys to increase the ability of models to robustly predict cetacean distribution. Best regards, On behalf of all co-authors, Remi Pigeault Institute of Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW) - TiHo Buesum (Germany)

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