April 2024 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

9-12 months paid internship at NAMMCO
by Naima El bani Altuna 18 Apr '24

18 Apr '24

Dear MARMAM community, I am reaching out to you regarding NAMMCO-North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission's Internship Programme. The current call for applications is open until the 30th of April. The NAMMCO Internship Programme, is a paid opportunity that gives students or early career professionals the chance to be involved in an international marine mammal management and conservation body, improve their skillset, and learn more about NAMMCO and its activities. Please note that we can only consider applicants from NAMMCO member or EEA countries. The intern will work full-time at the NAMMCO Secretariat in Tromsø, Norway. Further details about the internship can be found here<https://nammco.no/nammco-internship/>. Please feel free to share the information about the internship and do not hesitate to contact nammco-sec(a)nammco.org<mailto:nammco-sec@nammco.org> should you have any questions. Best, Naima

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New publication: harbour porpoise habitat use and vulnerability to fishing and offshore wind development
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 18 Apr '24

18 Apr '24

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-author and myself, I am delighted to bring to your attention the publication of our last research published by the scientific journal Marine Biology. This article on the species' habitat use addresses the status of the harbour porpoise population in the Iberian Peninsula, highlighting its vulnerability to fishing and the development of offshore wind farms. Abstract The Iberian harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena meridionalis) population faces unique challenges, characterized by low population size and limited genetic diversity, underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts. However, a dearth of ecological information on this population hampers targeted conservation measures. This study addresses this knowledge gap by assessing the environmental and anthropogenic factors influencing the habitat use of Iberian harbour porpoises. Utilizing data collected from 195 daily boat surveys spanning 8 years along the north-western coast of Spain, we observed 287 harbour porpoise groups comprising 1383 individuals. Our analysis revealed a wide distribution of harbour porpoises along the continental shelf of the north-western Iberian Peninsula. Notably, this species exhibited a preference for areas characterized by high productivity, influenced by seasonal coastal upwelling phenomena and tidal flow. Our results emphasize the positive correlation between the presence of fishing boats and porpoise habitat use, highlighting the risks associated with bycatch in gear such as bottom-set gillnets and trammel nets, and the need for comprehensive mitigation measures. Additionally, our findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive conservation strategies to address risks associated with marine traffic and habitat alteration due to the expanding development of offshore wind farms in the region. This research also establishes a baseline for future environmental monitoring programs, contributing to the long-term conservation and management of the Iberian harbour porpoise population. The article can be found in the following link: < https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00227-024-04438-x > Please feel free to contact me for further questions or to request a pdf copy at: bruno(a)thebdri.com Best regards, Bruno Diaz Lopez Ph.DChief 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 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0388-3289 Follow BDRI on Facebook , Instagram or mention us on Twitter. 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. | | Virus-free.www.avast.com |

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New article in Pontoporiia blainvillei anatomy
by Ignacio Molpeceres de Diego 18 Apr '24

18 Apr '24

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my coauthors, I am thrilled to share our new publication in Animals titled: Nature or Nurture: Is the Digestive System of the *Pontoporia blainvillei* Influenced or Determined by Its Diet? Abstract: The Franciscana (also known as the La Plata River Dolphin) is a small dolphin that lives in the coastal waters of Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. This species is considered the most endangered marine mammal in the western South Atlantic Ocean. Anatomic dissection of the digestive system of 19 animals of different ages, including 2 neonates, 12 juveniles, and 5 adults, was performed. Parameters related to length, breadth, weight, and diameter of the digestive viscera were considered in each case. Our results show that the Franciscana dolphin presents differential characteristics in relation to several parts of the digestive system, including, specifically, the tongue, the teeth, the stomach, and the small intestine. Thus, this paper add precious information to the actual knowledge of this vulnerable marine mammal species in order to improve conservation efforts. Tostado-Marcos C, Olocco Diz MJ, Martín-Orti R, Loureiro JP, Molpeceres-Diego I, Tendillo-Domínguez E, Pérez-Lloret P, Santos-Álvarez I, González-Soriano J. Nature or Nurture: Is the Digestive System of the Pontoporia blainvillei Influenced or Determined by Its Diet? Animals (Basel). 2024 Feb 20;14(5):661. doi: 10.3390/ani14050661. PMID: 38473047; PMCID: PMC10931072. The paper is open access and can be downloaded here: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/5/661 Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about our work! Cheers, Ignacio Molpeceres de Diego DVM, PhD Candidate University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA) Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

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Soundscape Ecology Summer School - Registrations open
by Fabio Ronchetti 17 Apr '24

17 Apr '24

Revamp your summer plans with the Soundscape Ecology Summer School! ( https://www.mareterra-erc.org/en/citizens-science-eng) Embark on a transformative journey to the breathtaking landscapes of Alghero, nestled in the heart of Sardinia Island, Italy. >From September 14th to 22nd, 2024, dive deep into the cutting-edge realm of Soundscape Ecology, a riveting fusion of bioacoustics and ecology. Led by the esteemed Dr. Gabriella La Manna, this immersive experience promises to broaden your horizons and ignite your passion for environmental stewardship. - Where: Alghero, Sardinia Island (Italy). - When: 14-22 September 2024. - How: lessons, exercises and field activities, with a focus on fish and cetacean monitoring. - Organization: MareTerra Onlus - University of Sassari - Porto Conte Regional Natural Park - Capo Caccia-Isola Piana Marine Protected Area. - Summer School Director: Dr. Gabriella La Manna. Soundscape Ecology is a recent discipline that integrates bioacoustics (the study of animal acoustic communication) and ecology with broad applications (understanding of ecological processes, environmental monitoring and management, biodiversity conservation, restoration ecology) and various employment opportunities. The Summer School offers the chance to study bioacoustics and ecoacoustics in one of the Mediterranean regions with the highest biodiversity, Sardinia island. As you delve into the captivating realm of bioacoustics and ecoacoustics, unlock the secrets of animal acoustic communication and unravel the intricate tapestry of natural and anthropic sounds that shape our environment. But that's not all – brace yourself for thrilling field activities and boat trips for fish and cetacean monitoring. Engage in hands-on exercises and cutting-edge research, all while contributing to vital conservation efforts and restoration ecology. Whether you're a seasoned scholar or an aspiring student or an environmental enthusiast, the Soundscape Ecology Summer School offers unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth. Expand your skill set, forge lasting connections, and chart a course towards a bright career in ecoacoustic and environmental management. Secure your spot today by emailing info(a)mareterra-erc.org. Join us in Alghero! Gabriella La Manna, PhD --- Dr Fabio Ronchetti www.mareterragroup.net www.progettonaturasardegna.com www.instagram.com/progetto_natura_ecoturismo www.facebook.com/progettonaturasardegna progettonatura(a)mareterragroup.net.com Via P. Enrico 42 07041 Alghero (SS) Tel: +393921404069 Research associate *MareTerra ERC* www.mareterra-erc.org ronchettifabio(a)gmail.com Via P. Enrico 42 07041 Alghero (SS) Tel: +393921404069

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Opportunity - Lab Manager/Senior Research Technician - Dauphin Island Sea Lab
by Elizabeth Hieb 17 Apr '24

17 Apr '24

*Lab Manager/Senior Research Technician* *Description:* We seek a highly motivated, organized, and detail-oriented Lab Manager/Senior Research Technician to join our multidisciplinary team as part of the Carmichael Lab at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab ( https://www.disl.edu/who-we-are/rcarmichael/) on Dauphin Island, AL. Our research focuses on how coastal habitats and species respond to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. We have a strong interest in bioindicator and sentinel species applications, with projects that range from water quality to shellfish and megafauna, including implications for human health. The position will be responsible for general lab and project management in support of the various research projects under PI Carmichael. They will work closely with volunteers, interns, students, technicians, post-docs, project partners, and community stakeholders. Responsibilities may include supply purchasing and some account management; meticulous data and record keeping; maintaining confidential information; grant, report, and scientific writing; volunteer and intern coordination and mentorship; public education and outreach; and support for field and lab-based sample collection and processing. The selected candidate will display exceptional ability to work independently and as part of a team, often taking a leadership role. The position will also be an integral part of the *Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Marine Mammal Research Program* and will be responsible for managing the logistics of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s *Manatee Sighting Network*, a citizen-science program focused on understanding manatee distribution and habitat use in the northcentral Gulf of Mexico. Associated responsibilities include communication with citizen-scientists, sighting report processing, database management, and data analysis, including producing maps and figures to fulfill data requests. The position will assist with manatee research projects, including telemetry-based tracking of tagged manatees and field observations of sighted, tagged or distressed manatees. The position will provide support for the *Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network*, including some field response for live or dead stranded marine mammals, necropsy, and associated data collection. Because the Marine Mammal Research Program relies on public reporting, the selected candidate must possess excellent communication skills and will be expected to represent the program in a professional manner at all times. *Essential qualifications:* · Master’s degree in biology, marine science, or a similar field · Research experience including use of databases, data analyses, and data display · Excellent oral and written communication skills with experience working with the public or involvement with a citizen-science program · Presentation experience for diverse audiences (e.g., public outreach, scientific meetings) · Excellent organization and time management skills · Creative thinking and problem-solving skills · Experience working with a diverse group of colleagues · Ability and enthusiastic willingness to work a flexible schedule, including some nights and weekends as needed and carrying an on-call response phone · Ability and willingness to work in inclement conditions, including extreme heat or cold · Superior knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite or similar · Experience with creating maps and managing data in ArcGIS *Preferred qualifications:* · Knowledge of statistics with some experience in R · Experience with satellite tagging and telemetry · Experience writing newsletters, white papers, grant proposals or scientific publications · Experience processing analytical samples · Boat and trailering experience · Experience managing, supervising, or mentoring personnel Applicants must be eligible to legally work in the U.S. *at the time of application*. International applicants are accepted; however, no visa assistance can be provided. The selected candidate is responsible for their own housing and transportation. Guidance for finding housing can be provided but there is no relocation assistance. *To apply*: *send a brief letter of interest (not to exceed 2 pages) and CV* to rcarmichael(a)disl.org. *Salary range*: $45,000-55,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. *Benefits*: health and life insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, support for career development, project-related travel, more. *Review of applications will begin immediately. Applications close 17 May 2024*. DISL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from an inclusive pool of prospective candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or any other identity information. DISL recognizes that a variety of perspectives, lived experiences, ideas, and passions allow us to better meet our goal of ocean-literate communities in Alabama. [image: Dauphin Island Sea Lab Logo] Elizabeth Hieb Research Technician/Lab Manager 251-861-2141 <1-251-861-2141> ext. 7547 ehieb(a)disl.edu https://www.disl.edu 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL 36528 [image: facebook logo] <https://www.facebook.com/disealab> [image: twitter logo] <https://twitter.com/disealab> [image: YouTube logo] <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCphmeb5XTCoBhzk2b937_Rw> [image: Instagram logo] <https://www.instagram.com/disealab/> [image: LinkedIn logo] <https://www.linkedin.com/company/dauphin-island-sea-lab>

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New publication: "A longitudinal study of endocrinology and foraging ecology of subadult gray whales prior to death based on baleen analysis"
by Alejandro Apolo Fernández Ajó 16 Apr '24

16 Apr '24

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share with you our recent publication describing the longitudinal hormonal patterns and stable isotope variation in gray whale baleen prior to their death. You can access this publication here: Link to the publication <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016648024000522?dgcid=a…> Additionally, we have prepared a blog post detailing the study, which you can find here. <https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/gemmlab/2024/04/15/baleen-analyses-reveals-pa…> *Abstract:* *"Individual-level assessments of wild animal health, vital rates, and foraging ecology are critical for understanding population-wide impacts of exposure to stressors. Large whales face multiple stressors, including, but not limited to, ocean noise, pollution, and ship strikes. Because baleen is a continuously growing keratinized structure, serial extraction, and quantification of hormones and stable isotopes along the length of baleen provide a historical record of whale physiology and foraging ecology. Furthermore, baleen analysis enables the investigation of dead specimens, even decades later, allowing comparisons between historic and modern populations. Here, we examined baleen of five sub-adult gray whales and observed distinct patterns of oscillations in δ15N values along the length of their baleen plates which enabled estimation of baleen growth rates and differentiation of isotopic niche widths of the whales during wintering and summer foraging. In contrast, no regular patterns were apparent in δ13C values. Prolonged elevation of cortisol in four individuals before death indicates that chronic stress may have impacted their health and survival. Triiodothyronine (T3) increased over months in the whales with unknown causes of death, simultaneous with elevations in cortisol, but both hormones remained stable in the one case of acute death attributed to killer whale predation. This parallel elevation of cortisol and T3 challenges the classic understanding of their interaction and might relate to increased energetic demands during exposure to stressors. Reproductive hormone profiles in subadults did not show cyclical trends, suggesting they had not yet reached sexual maturity. This study highlights the potential of baleen analysis to retrospectively assess gray whales' physiological status, exposure to stressors, reproductive status, and foraging ecology in the months or years leading up to their death, which can be a useful tool for conservation diagnostics to mitigate unusual mortality events."* -- *Alejandro Fernandez Ajó, PhD* Researcher / Instituto de Conservación de Ballenas <https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fballenas.…> (ICB, Whale Conservation Institute / Argentina) Postdoctoral Scholar / Marine Mammal Institute <https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmmi.orego…> | Dept. of Fisheries, Wildlife, & Conservation Sciences Oregon State University Pronouns: he, him, his *fernaale(a)oregonstate.edu <fernaale(a)oregonstate.edu>*

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JNCC MMO course - Ireland
by Patrick Lyne 15 Apr '24

15 Apr '24

Dear All In Person JNCC course to be held in Castletownbere, West Cork, Ireland with boat session and separate module on Irish guidelines and regulation. <https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/jncc-accredited-marine-mammal-observer-mmo-cour…> JNCC accredited Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) Course: 8-9th June eventbrite.ie • 2 min read <https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/jncc-accredited-marine-mammal-observer-mmo-cour…> -- Patrick Lyne Officer Irish Whale and Dolphin Group Registered Charity Number: 20029913 Merchants Quay, Kilrush, Co Clare, Ireland www.iwdg.ie / http://consulting.iwdg.ie Email: Patrick.Lyne(a)iwdg.ie Mob: 353 85 2641342

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Cardiorespiratory patterns of South American sea lions
by Diego Rodríguez 14 Apr '24

14 Apr '24

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of all authors, I am pleased to share our study on cardiorespiratory patterns of South American sea lions. PDF copies are available upon request to Carolina de León (de.leon.carito(a)gmail.com) Cheers Diego Rodríguez De León, M. C., Rodríguez, D. H., & Dassis, M. (2024). Cardiorespiratory patterns of male South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens) resting on land. Journal of Comparative Physiology B, 1-13. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00360-024-01533-9 Abstract The goal of this study was to characterize the cardiorespiratory patterns of male South American sea lions (SASLs, Otaria flavescens) resting on land. We recorded respiratory and heart rate (n = 360 individuals studied) by observing the nostrils, chest movements and the impact of the heart on the thoracic wall. The sea lions breathe apneustically with a pause on inspiration, representing 74% of the respiratory cycle. The mean breathing frequency was 3.2 ± 1.0 breaths min−1, with a breathing cycle presenting periods of bradypneas, tachypneas, and long-term post-inspiratory pauses. The normal heart rate (nHR) was 73.4 ± 14.5 beats min−1 and no significant differences were observed between age classes. All animals showed variability in HR in relation to respiratory phases (Inspiration: 101.2 ± 18.4 beats min−1; post-inspiratory pause: 73.4 ± 14.5 beats min−1; expiration: 64.6 ± 17.7 beats min−1), consistent with respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA). The mean HR (measured during all respiratory phases) was 79.9 ± 22.7 beats min−1, and was significantly different between age classes. The total duration of respiratory cycle, and duration of both inspiration and expiration, decreased with an increment in ambient temperature, with no variation in the pause duration. Heart rate during pause and expiration was significantly higher during high temperatures. Similar changes in cardiorespiratory patterns have been reported in other pinnipeds. Our results showed ontogenetic differences in development and typical variations with environmental and behavioral variables. -- Dr.Diego Rodríguez Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata-CONICET. Casilla de Correos 1260 (Correo Central) (7600) Mar del Plata, Argentina TE + 54 (0) 223 4754060 (Int.244) FAX +54 (0) 223 4753150 Skype: diego291162 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/136323163081610/ Website: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Diego_Rodriguez16 ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5080-3739 "Si los pueblos no se ilustran, si no se divulgan sus derechos, si cada hombre no conoce lo que puede, vale, debe, nuevas ilusiones sucederán a las antiguas y será tal vez nuestra suerte cambiar de tiranos sin destruir la tiranía" (Mariano Moreno)

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Right whale photo-ID lead
by Philip Hamilton 11 Apr '24

11 Apr '24

Dear Marmam subscribers, We seek a Research Scientist to join and grow with the long-standing right whale research team as part of the Kraus Marine Mammal Conservation Program in the Anderson Cabot Cener for Ocean Life at the New England Aquarium in Boston, MA. This scientist will oversee the North Atlantic right whale photo-identification catalog including reviewing scientific objectives, coordinating with software programmers, fund raising, budgeting, and reporting. They must have a passion and deep understanding of photo-identification and the many ways in which it can be utilized as well as experience collecting photo-identification data in the field. They should be comfortable leading a team of three to five and have strong analytical skills with a proven track record in publishing and fund raising. They should be an excellent communicator who is energetic and collaborative with a genuine passion for marine research and conservation. Although this position is grant-funded, currently with one year of funding, we anticipate it to be a long-term, funding-dependent position. This is a remote work position; a computer will be provided, but the employee will need an adequate workspace and high-speed internet connection. The researcher must live in MA, NY, RI, VT, NH, or ME. To apply, please use the following link: https://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/3314202 Philip Hamilton He/Him/His Senior Scientist and Interim Chair Kraus Marine Mammal Conservation Program Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium Central Wharf Boston, MA 02110 [cid:image001.png@01DA86C8.3095B630][cid:image002.png@01DA86C8.3095B630] This electronic message contains information from the New England Aquarium which may be privileged and confidential. The information is intended to be for the use of the addressee only. If you have received this communication in error, do not read or circulate it. Please delete it from your system without copying it or saving any attachments and notify the sender by reply e-mail. Thank you.

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new publication on Blast fishing acoustics and its potential impacts to marine mammals
by Marcos Rossi Santos 11 Apr '24

11 Apr '24

Dear Marmam colleagues, We are pleased to share this recent publication about blast fishing acoustic characterization in Brazil and its potential impact to marine mammal conservation. This work is part of a long term research project on Behavioral ecology of Guiana Dolphins (Sotalia guianensis), an endangered species, in the Todos os Santos Bay, Brazil. During field surveys to study dolphin acoustic behavior, we recorded and described the first underwater explosion reported for Latin America, discussing its potential impact to harm local marine mammals, as the resident S. guianensis population. Melo-Souza, V.; Gavrilov, A.; Rossi-Santos, M.R. Dropping a bombshell: Acoustic characterization of blast fishing in Todos os Santos Bay, Brazil, and its implication for marine conservation. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 202, May 2024, 116332. Blast fishing is an illegal fishing method that not only affects fish populations and the marine ecosystem, but also local food security and local economy. Despite its effects, blast fishing continues to persist in many coastal regions around the world, including Todos os Santos Bay (BTS - Baia de Todos os Santos) in Northeastern Brazil. This study fits into a long term project on Guiana Dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) behavioral ecology and during bioacoustic survey to study dolphin sounds, we registered the first acoustic record of underwater explosions along this region. The results revealed a distinctive underwater acoustic signal detected in the BTS, indicating evidence of blast fishing activities. This Anthropogenic sound is confirmed to be harmful for marine mammals due to its acoustic characteristics, enabling overlapping of dolphin sounds and even physiological damage. The acoustic characterization of blast fishing in BTS provides crucial information on its occurrence and extent of this destructive practice worldwide. PDF is available at the link below: https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1ituz,asi9t0O Best Regards, Marcos Rossi-Santos marcos.rossi(a)ufrb.edu.br Acoustic Ecology and Animal Behaviour Laboratory Federal University of Recôncavo da Bahia - Brazil

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