February 2024 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

French / English speaking job opportunity - ORCA Ocean Conservationist - Newhaven/Dieppe
by Kate Weston 12 Feb '24

12 Feb '24

ORCA (Organisation Cetacea) is a whale and dolphin conservation charity dedicated to the long-term protection of whales, dolphins and porpoises and their habitats. ORCA's vision is to have oceans alive with whales and dolphins, and their mission is to give everyone who cares about whales and dolphins an active role in safeguarding their future. We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic Ocean Conservationist to join the team delivering the DFDS programme in the English Channel this season. You’ll be working onboard the Cotê d’Albâte and Seven Sisters ships, sailing between Newhaven and Dieppe for one return crossing per day (Wednesday-Sunday). *Note: The ability to speak both English and French is essential for this role.* The Ocean Conservationist Programme is a vital part of ORCA’s education and outreach work, inspiring thousands of passengers about the wonders in our waters every year. We have been partnered with DFDS for over 15 years, and Ocean Conservationists work remotely and independently on board their ships to give the passengers an experience of a lifetime. We are looking for passionate individuals to showcase the diversity and abundance of wildlife that can be spotted across the English Channel, encouraging passengers to help protect the whales and dolphins. This education work is conducted through lectures or other interactive activities with members of the public (both adults and children). In addition, you will be collecting scientific data based on your sightings using the OceanWatchers app, data that contributes to the protection of whales and dolphins. Person Specification - Experience in marine conservation or related field - Experience in giving presentations and talking to members of the public - Ability to work independently - Knowledge and passion for wildlife and the natural world - Fundraising experience A full person specification and further information about the role can be found here - https://orca.org.uk/vacancies To apply for the Ocean Conservationist role, please send a *2-minute video *outlining why you think you’d be a good fit for this role and why you want to help protect whales, dolphins, and porpoises, as well as *an up-to-date CV (no more than 2-pages). *Applications should be submitted through the Application Form which can be found on the vacancies page. The deadline to apply for this position is *Sunday 3rd March 2024 at 23:59 (GMT*) For more information and for the application form, please visit www.orca.org.uk/vacancies

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6th Marine Mammal Student Symposium Announcement
by NAMMCO, Marina Metić 09 Feb '24

09 Feb '24

Hello everyone, The North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission (NAMMCO), the Norwegian Centre for the Law of the Sea (NCLOS), and the UiT Department of Arctic and Marine Biology are co-organising the 6th Marine Mammal Student Symposium: “Navigating Arctic Waters: Strengthening ties between Marine Mammal Research, Indigenous Knowledge & Law and Policy Making” The symposium will be held in a hybrid format (online and in the Universitetbibliotek Room 132, Tromsø) on April 19, 2024. This symposium represents an opportunity for students with common interests from various fields in natural, social, and legal sciences to share their ideas, knowledge, and experiences on topics related to marine mammal conservation and management. Interested students can register here<https://forms.gle/ZGoCQFTUiEMFYwER6> to indicate participation, and whether they would like to present their projects. On this website<https://nammco.no/topics/marine-mammal-student-symposium-2024/>, you can find more information about the event. For any question, you can reach out to Intern(a)nammco.org<mailto:Intern@nammco.org> Kind regards, Marina Metić Intern NAMMCO – North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission Visitors: Sykehusveien 21-23, N-9294 Tromsø, Norway Post: POB 6400, N-9294 Tromsø, Norway Mob.: +47 967 45 893 [cid:image001.jpg@01DA5B59.408A8DD0]<https://nammco.no/> [Home - United Nations Sustainable Development] <https://nammco.no/sustainable-development-goals/> [Linkedin logo png, Linkedin icon transparent png 18930587 PNG] <https://www.linkedin.com/company/north-atlantic-marine-mammal-commission-na…> [Facebook Logo - PNG and Vector - Logo Download] <http://www.facebook.com/nammco.org> [Instagram PNG Icons, Instagram Logo PNG Images For Free Download | Pngtree] <http://www.instagram.com/nammco_org/>

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New publication: Aerial photogrammetry - Sousa chinensis
by agathe serres 07 Feb '24

07 Feb '24

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our latest article entitled "Skinny dolphins: Can poor body condition explain population decline in Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis)?" in the journal Science of the Total Environment. Here is the link to the article: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724005369 Below is the abstract of this article, please feel free to contact me if you want a PDF copy. *Abstract: *Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (IPHDs) who form resident populations along the Chinese coastline are facing a wide range of anthropogenic disturbances including intense fishing and some populations have been shown to experience a severe decline. Body condition is thought to be a good indicator of health since it is linked to survival and reproductive success. In order to better understand population trends, we investigated whether the body condition of IPHDs is poorer in populations whose status is alarming than in other populations. UAV flights were conducted from 2022 to 2023 in four locations (i.e., Sanniang Bay, Leizhou Bay, Jiangmen, and Lingding Bay) in the northern South China Sea. Body ratios were calculated using the body length and widths of IPHDs and were used to analyze differences among seasons, locations, and demographic parameters. A PCA was then used to obtain a detailed picture of the body condition composition of dolphins at each location. Results showed that dolphins from Leizhou Bay and Jiangmen were in better body condition than those from Sanniang Bay and Lingding Bay. Since populations inhabiting Sanniang Bay and Lingding Bay have been shown to experience a sharp decline, it can be hypothesized that poor body condition may have played a role in such a trend. Further investigations of the factors impacting IPHDs’ body condition are needed, including monitoring of prey density, contaminant concentration, stress levels, and impacts of human activities on dolphins’ behavior. In addition, the creation of a robust scoring method would allow for regular monitoring of IPHDs’ body condition to inform conservation measures. All the best, Agathe Agathe Serres, Ph.D. Postdoctoral researcher Institute of Deep Sea Science and Engineering, Sanya, China agathe.serres11(a)gmail.com *agathe(a)idsse.ac.cn <agathe(a)idsse.ac.cn>*

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Whale Tales 2024 - A free livestream whale education event to support Lahaina, Maui!
by Emma Hearne 07 Feb '24

07 Feb '24

Aloha! I've been passed along your information through my colleague, Josie Byington, and wanted to reach out regarding an upcoming in-person and virtual event that may be of interest to you and your network. Presented by Whale Trust, a Maui-based whale research non-profit, Whale Tales is an annual fundraising and community outreach event that brings together leading scientists, photographers, filmmakers, and conservationists to share the latest advancements in whale research and conservation. In its nearly two-decade history, Whale Tales has become a prestigious marine science gathering, uniting researchers and ocean enthusiasts worldwide. This multi-day event consists of expert presentations from leading scientists and visual storytellers, a Mauka to Makai Science Center featuring hands-on learning activities from local conservation organizations, a Community Art Expo showcasing the work of talented Maui artists and businesses, and Benefit Whale Watches hosted by presenters. In the aftermath of the Maui wildfires, the decision to proceed with Whale Tales was carefully considered, acknowledging the challenges faced by our community. However, recognizing the event’s significance in supporting marine research and fostering community, Whale Trust, with the encouragement of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua and our community partners, has decided to move forward to celebrate the ocean giants that surround our island home. By broadcasting Whale Tales 2024 via live stream, our objective is to make advanced whale research and conservation insights accessible to a wider audience, in line with our commitment to advancing ocean education. This live-streaming option is designed to provide a fair opportunity for a global audience to actively participate in the conversations centered around our ocean planet. Funds raised through Whale Tales 2024 will not only contribute to whale research but also support restoration efforts in Lahaina and its surrounding natural environment. To register and learn more about our presenters, visit www.WhaleTales.org <http://www.whaletales.org/>. I've also attached a poster below for your reference if you would like to circulate it! Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions! Warmly, Emma -- Emma Hearne Communications and Events Manager A PO Box 1360, Puunene, HI 96784 P 925-408-4418 E *ehearne(a)whaletrust.org <ehearne(a)whaletrust.org>* W whaletrust.org ᐧ

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IMarEST Marine Mammal Special Interest Group Biennial Report 2022-2023
by Niru Dorrian 07 Feb '24

07 Feb '24

Dear All, The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science, and Technology (IMarEST) Marine Mammal Specials Interest Group (MMSIG) is pleased to present its biennial report covering 2022 through 2023. This document offers an insightful overview of the diverse activities, events, and publications organized and produced by our dedicated committee members. This report highlights the dedication and achievements of our members, showcased through impactful webinars, workshops, and contributions to industrial publications. It underscores advancements in marine mammal research, innovation, technology, and conservation, underlining the critical importance of ongoing support for marine mammal welfare and ocean sustainability. To download the report, please visit: https://www.imarest.org/resource/mmsig-biennial-report-pdf.html If you want to join the Marine Mammals Special Interest Group, you could be part of a professional community aiming to bridge the divide between marine mammal conservation and engineering communities. The group offers a forum for dialogue and works to raise awareness of crewing issues, as well as professional development opportunities for various roles in marine mammal consulting. It also contributes to policy debates at government and intergovernmental organisations and develops professional standards for marine scientists working in an industrial setting. More information on joining can be found within the Biennial report. Best fishes, Niru Dorrian & Liz Ferguson Co-Chairs, Marine Mammals SIG niru(a)whalefish.org membership(a)imarest.org Niru Dorrian, BSc (Hons) CMarSci CSci FIMarEST Co - Founder & Marine Mammal Biologist Whalefish Mail: niru(a)whalefish.org Url: www.whalefish.org Cell: +44 (0)7888747719 *Connect - Share - Inspire*

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GLOBAL POLICY AND CONSERVATION OF MARINE MAMMALS (New Zealand Summer 2024) (Jennifer Lewis)
by Jennifer Lewis 06 Feb '24

06 Feb '24

WANT TO PROTECT MARINE MAMMALS FROM EXTINCTION? THEN TAKE THIS CLASS! GLOBAL POLICY AND CONSERVATION OF MARINE MAMMALS (New Zealand Summer 2024) Hosted by George Mason University (Virginia, USA), this 6-credit course will take place in summer 2024 (July 6-Aug 3) on the South Island of New Zealand. It can be taken as undergraduate or graduate course, and at any stage of your career (students, professionals, or retirees). WHAT WILL YOU GET? 1. Significant practice in critical thinking for brainstorming solutions. The class is structured to teach about all marine mammals listed as endangered by the IUCN. Students become familiar with each case in detail, including the laws that are available to protect each, the historical and current situations, the stakeholders involved in each case, and what has been done to date. Students are led in discussion-based problem solving for each species case, and brainstorm about what worked, what did not, and what more could be done. Leave with practice on many very different situations, with a tool kit of ideas. Prepared for solution development in species or resource management. 1. Gain field experience learning how to fully investigate conservation issues. Conservation solutions require a detailed understanding about the species, the issues facing them, and the people involved. And the only way to gain that knowledge is by examining firsthand. As a part of this class, students will be trained to research and to collect data relevant for conservation questions focusing on the species off the coast of New Zealand (including sperm whales, Hector’s dolphins and the NZ fur seal). This will be at sea (for cetaceans) and on land (for pinnipeds). Field exercises will also involve learning about stakeholders for these species and the social, cultural and economic aspects that are important to consider in conservation (e.g., learning from the indigenous Maori about their ecotourism business on sperm whales). 1. Networking with world renown managers, lawyers, researchers, and other experts (e.g., journalists who cover conservation stories). Joining us in person or over zoom, students will learn from the people working right now to save marine mammals from disappearing forever. 1. Practice developing action plans. As a final project we work as a team to research one specific conservation problem in New Zealand, collecting information on the issue firsthand. Students then develop a detailed action plan to give to resource managers. BONUS 1: IT’S IN NEW ZEALAND!!!!!!!! One of the most gorgeous spots on the globe, perfect for people who love exploring the outdoors from the sea to the land. Picked as the location to film LOTR for a good reason. It is off the charts in natural beauty. BONUS 2: Dr. Lewis will work with all students enrolled to locate a suitable internship pre or post trip. Might as well get the most bang for your buck! Think NZ, Australia or even SE Asia. This is not part of the class (and is optional). But something very cool to consider. Locations visited will be on the South Island NZ, in Christchurch, Kaikoura and Akaroa. The course is structured to give 3-day weekends at each location so exploring during the trip is easy and HIGHLY recommended. Students can also arrive early or stay late to explore more. Cost (4400USD). This includes tuition for six credits (at in-state rate for everyone), lodging for the entire trip (one month), all ground transportation (taxis and buses to locations), and our trips to sea (4 trips). Payments not due until summer semester begins for George Mason University (and these can be divided into multiple payments). Airfare not included in this. Dr. Lewis will work with all students to get the best flight deals possible (sharing all her travel hacks) and prices may be lower than usual because it is the off season for NZ. Financial aid can be applied to this, including GI benefits. If you are a student, if you consider that you likely spend 2200 a month for rent and bills and transport and fun anyway (if in USA), then why not pay a cheaper tuition amount (in state rate) and spend that cash in a MUCH more amazing space on the adventure of a lifetime. Cap at 20, so grab your spot now and reserve with a deposit that is applied to final balance (200USD). Application deadline March 10. To apply go to the following link and click APPLY NOW: https://masonabroad.gmu.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgramAngula… To learn more, contact Dr. Jennifer Lewis through email (jlewis33(a)gmu.edu<mailto:jlewis33@gmu.edu>) or WhatsApp: +17039752661 You can also join an upcoming information session: Monday Feb 12 and Monday Feb 26 at 7:30pm (EST, Washington DC) https://gmu.zoom.us/j/98192141803

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Job Opportunity: FWC OPS Biological Scientist II (Florida Manatee Photo-identification)
by Johnson, Jennifer 06 Feb '24

06 Feb '24

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Fish and Wildlife Research Institute Working Title: OPS Biological Scientist II Position #: 77903039 Section: Wildlife Research Subsection: Marine Mammals Location: This position is home-based; however, the residence must be in the Citrus County area in Florida due to field work. Salary: $20.00 per hour Closing Date: March 1, 2024 Job Description: This position provides technical support for the manatee photo-identification project. The successful candidate will be responsible for matching images to known manatees; facilitating matching manatees between partner organizations and regions of the state; entering, editing, and verifying data; maintaining project databases; sketching manatee scar patterns from images; labeling, sorting, and tagging (categorizing) images; creating and updating written procedures; managing, organizing, and archiving slide, print, and digital manatee photo-identification records and associated datasheets; providing summary information and data to managers as needed; and assisting with the implementation of an integrated multi-agency Manatee Individual Photo-identification (MIPS) database. Additional responsibilities include independently collecting manatee-related photographic, spatial, environmental, genetic, and behavioral data from shore, in-water, and from watercraft (field work emphasis will be in the northwest region of Florida (Wakulla County to Hernando County) but may include state-wide travel); assisting with field and lab equipment, vehicle, and vessel, purchasing, organization, and maintenance; and other tasks as assigned by the supervisor. This position is primarily lab-based but does include field work. Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program; or a master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences. Knowledge, Skill(s), and Abilities: * Knowledge of wildlife ecology, biology, and natural systems * Experience in photo-identification techniques (data collection and management of photo-identification data) * Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook), Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat, scanning software, and image management software * Skilled in the safe operation and trailering of small watercraft (up to 24ft.) * Skilled in the use and maintenance of scientific field equipment, including digital SLR cameras * Skilled in problem-solving and visual spatial reasoning * Ability to record data independently and accurately in a sometimes-harsh field environment * Ability to perform detail-oriented work in an organized manner * Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing * Ability to work independently and as part of a team; establish and maintain effective working relationships * Ability to swim with sufficient skill to perform in-water research * Ability to maintain a U.S. driver's license Application Requirements: Applicants are required to ensure that their profile in People First is up to date and must apply through People First by midnight on the closing date listed. Go to: https://peoplefirst.myflorida.com (enter 820599 in the keyword search field) or https://jobs.myflorida.com/job-invite/820599/. Applicants should also upload a cover letter, resume, and contact information (including email and phone) for three references with their People First application by the closing date, but these do not replace the requirement for applying through the State of Florida's People First system. Applicants are required to complete the additional application questions. If you experience technical difficulties during the application process, please call People First at 1-877-562-7287. OPS Employment: WHAT IS OPS EMPLOYMENT? Other Personal Services (OPS) employment is a temporary employer/employee relationship used solely for accomplishing short term or intermittent tasks. OPS employees do not fill established positions and may not be assigned the duties of any vacant authorized position. OPS employees are at-will employees and are subject to actions such as pay changes, changes to work assignment, and terminations at the pleasure of the agency head or designee. WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? * State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - mandatory * Workers' Compensation - mandatory * Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory * Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements. Consult with People First or the servicing Human Resource Office to determine eligibility.) * Deferred Compensation - voluntary * Employee Assistance Program - voluntary WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? * Any form of paid leave * Paid holidays * Participation in the Florida Retirement System * Reinstatement rights or retention rights Additional Requirements: The Commission expects its employees to be courteous and respectful while assisting Commission customers and stakeholders, ensuring each encounter is as positive as possible. Employees should promptly resolve questions or problems relating to the Commission, its programs and/or fish and wildlife resources. Employees should seek to gain public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida's citizens in a positive and proactive manner and by listening to what the customer wants and striving to meet their needs. When appropriate, employees will explain the reasons for agency actions or decisions while communicating a consistent Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) point-of-view. Work at FWC is cross-functional meaning duties may cross division/office lines. The Commission expects employees to function across FWC's organizational structure by providing their skills and expertise wherever needed through work on teams or as directed. Responsible for following the provisions and requirements in Section 215.422, Florida Statutes, related to the Department of Financial Services rules and FWC's invoice processing and warrant distribution procedures. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

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Research internship 2024- still some spots available
by Info DDP 05 Feb '24

05 Feb '24

DELFINI DEL PONENTE ASSOCIATION, IMPERIA, ITALY Cetaceans and Marine Fauna research project - last spots available Delfini del Ponente is currently looking for and accepting interns to join our research project on bottlenose dolphins and other marine fauna in the Western Ligurian Sea, Imperia (Italy) We still have a few spots available for this year. The project The research project “Delfini del Ponente”, started in 2018, is the first project focused on monitoring bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) occurrence and distribution in the Western Ligurian Sea. The project is structured on an annual basis, to obtain data year-round. The study has already provided exciting information about this community inside the study area - its social organisation, abundance of individuals, distribution, and movements also outside the region. Our dataset includes records on several cetaceans species and also on other marine fauna such as seabirds - Mediterranean shearwaters (Puffinus yelkouan), Scopoli’s shearwaters (Calonectris diomedea), Northern gannets (Morus bassanus), Sandwich terns (Thalasseus sandvicensis) and more - sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and sunfish (Mola mola), among others. Surveys are carried out in coastal waters onboard a dedicated zodiac (6 m inflatable boat) around 10 times per month. Training will focus on recording data on marine fauna, collecting photos for photo-ID purposes, environmental, marine traffic, geographical (GPS) and dolphins' behavioural data. Land-based surveys take place in Imperia, in 2 different locations to collect data on the presence/absence of dolphins, fishing boats in activity and marine birds. Fieldwork is a great opportunity to get involved and improve skills in cetaceans and marine biodiversity research. *Land-based and zodiac surveys are weather-dependent, and their number can change monthly*. Office work (6 hours per day) includes training and lessons for the interns and supervision of all the activities (photo-id work, data transcription, data entry, skin lesion analysis, QGIS work, etc...) Where: Imperia, Italy When: March - October 2024. Maximum number of interns for the month: 3 Activities: - boat-based surveys monitoring the presence and distribution of bottlenose dolphins - boat maintenance - data collection of other cetaceans, fishes, seabirds, turtles - office work, database updating - photo-id matching and skin-lesion analysis - land-based surveys /opportunistic surveys - monitoring survey for potential sea turtle tracks (only in July-August) - pilot project - lectures and training on cetacean ecology, biology and research techniques, and seabirds and sea turtles id skills This is a great opportunity to get involved in cetacean research, encounter marine biodiversity while gaining fieldwork experience, travel and explore the beautiful Liguria region and support cetacean research and conservation. Interns will be involved 5 days a week, 6-8 hours/day (depending on fieldwork or office work) During their free time, interns will have the opportunity to experience all sorts of activities: swimming, diving, hiking, exploring historical sites, visiting museums, surfing and sailing. Skills/qualifications: - Minimum age of 18 - Prior experience in cetaceans or boat-based surveys is not required - Degree or ongoing studies in biology, natural science, veterinary or similar (preferred) - Strong motivation and interest in cetaceans and research - Speak, read and write in fluent English - Be adaptable and highly flexible as fieldwork is weather-dependent - Be prepared to spend many hours on a small zodiac (5-6 m) and under the sun, be able to swim and work in harsh weather conditions both in nearshore and offshore waters - Be prepared to spend many hours in the office (generally 6 hours/day) - Be sociable and with a positive attitude as interns are expected to live and work in an international team Internship fee Delfini del Ponente is a self-funded research project, so participation in this programme requires a tuition fee. The fee includes the accommodation in an apartment in Imperia, tuition and all associated field costs during the internship period (use of research vessel, training, use of equipment, field trips, insurance). Transportation expenses to and from Imperia (Italy) and food costs during the stay are not included in the fee. How to apply: Send your CV with a letter of interest to info(a)delfinidelponente.it For any further enquiries and details, please send an email to info(a)delfinidelponente.it *Delfini Del Ponente APS* Via Regione Bussi, 18100 Imperia (Italy) C.F. 91048910086 pec: delfinidelponente(a)pec.it https://delfinidelponente.it/

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Post doc opportunity: humpback whale song
by Ellen Garland 05 Feb '24

05 Feb '24

Applications are sought for a committed Post-doctoral Research Fellow to work with Dr Ellen Garland conducting research for a Royal Society funded project on humpback whale song. The primary duties will be to develop and conduct quantitative song analyses to advance our understanding of song development, and how age may affect the cultural transmission of song. The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in ecology, evolution or behavioural biology with expertise in bioacoustics. The post is available on a fixed term contract until 30 September 2025, starting 3 June 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter. For more information and to apply: https://www.vacancies.st-andrews.ac.uk/Vacancies/W/2599/0/418440/889/resear… Kind regards, Ellen ----------------------------------------------------- Ellen C. Garland, Ph.D. Royal Society University Research Fellow Member RSE Young Academy of Scotland Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) Scottish Oceans Institute School of Biology University of St Andrews Fife, KY16 8LB, UK Ph: +44 (0)1334-46-3620 Ph: +44 (0)7478-649964 Email: ecg5(a)st-andrews.ac.uk<mailto:ecg5@st-andrews.ac.uk> WWW: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/biology/people/ecg5 Twitter: @EllenGarland4 ----------------------------------------------------- The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland: No SC013532

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New publication: Erysipelas with preferential brain and skin involvement in a Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus (Laura Martino)
by Laura 05 Feb '24

05 Feb '24

Dear all, Me and coauthors are pleased to announce the publication of our paper Erysipelas with preferential brain and skin involvement in a Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus, in the journal Diseases of Aquatic Organisms. The publication is open access, and is available at https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/dao/v157/p31-43/ See below the abstract of the publication: Erysipelas with preferential brain and skin involvement in a Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus Laura Martino, Bárbara Serrano, Jaume Alomar, Lola Pérez, Virginia Aragon, Àlex Cobos, Maria Lourdes Abarca, Zeinab Yazdi, Esteban Soto, Mariano Domingo ABSTRACT: Infections by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae occur in domestic animals and cause the disease known as ‘erysipelas’. The ubiquity of Erysipelothrix spp. makes infection possible in a wide range of vertebrates and invertebrates. Cetaceans are highly susceptible to erysipelas, especially those under human care. The number of cases documented in wild cetaceans is low, the pathogenesis is incompletely understood, and the full spectrum of lesions is not well defined. The possible serotypes and species of the genus that can cause disease are unknown. In October 2022, a common bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus stranded in Vilassar de Mar (Catalonia) showing skin lesions consistent with ‘diamond skin disease’, a characteristic lesion of erysipelas shared by swine and cetaceans. Necropsy was performed following standardized procedures, and multiple samples were taken for histopathology and bacteriology. Erysipelothrix sp. grew in pure culture in many tissue samples. Genetic characterization by multi-locus sequence analysis identified the species as E. rhusiopathiae. Histologically, the main lesions were an intense suppurative vasculitis of leptomeningeal arteries and veins with abundant intramural Gram-positive bacilli and meningeal hemorrhages. Meningeal lesions were considered the cause of death. The affected skin showed moderate suppurative dermatitis. Herein we document a case of erysipelas in a Mediterranean common bottlenose dolphin with unusual lesions in the leptomeningeal vessels and marked skin tropism. To our knowledge, this is the first case of severe brain involvement in erysipelas in a cetacean. We also provide a review of available cases in wild cetaceans, to highlight the characteristics of the disease and improve future diagnosis.

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