November 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

killer whale catalogs from Japan
by Ohizumi Hiroshi 11 Nov '25

11 Nov '25

* { font-size: 13px; font-family: 'MS Pゴシック', sans-serif;}p, ul, ol, blockquote { margin: 0;}a { color: #0064c8; text-decoration: none;}a:hover { color: #0057af; text-decoration: underline;}a:active { color: #004c98;} I’m pleased to inform on the “Photo ID Catalog of Killer Whales in the Nemuro Strait (Rausu), Hokkaido, Japan (2010‒2018)”. Please download it using the doi link; https://doi.org/10.57723/kds596917 You can also download IDs from Pacific side, as well as call catalog from our Uni-HORP website. https://sites.google.com/view/uni-horp/catalogue Hiroshi Ohizumi

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New Publication - Naval sonar induces an anaerobic swimming gait in beaked whales
by Leigh Hickmott 11 Nov '25

11 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share a new publication in ‘Scientific Reports’ entitled: Naval sonar induces an anaerobic swimming gait in beaked whales Abstract: Naval sonar can disrupt beaked whale diving behaviour, in some cases leading to lethal strandings. Diving disruption likely involves a physiological response, which remains poorly understood. Beaked whales may exceed their aerobic dive limit during long-duration deep-foraging dives and later in those dives, during ascent, initiate a unique strong gait (B-strokes), hypothesized to recruit anaerobic fast-twitch fibres. We compared the use of B-strokes during exposed and unexposed dives in four species of beaked whales. Contrasting the highly context-specific use of B-strokes during ascents from deep-dives in baseline conditions, during sonar exposure, B-strokes were used during descent and ascent phases of both deep and shallow dives. B-stroke onset occurred during all sonar exposure periods with levels above 100 dB re 1 μPa that lasted more than three minutes. The use of B-strokes during descent indicates these animals start using an oxygen-saving strategy earlier in exposed (16 ± 13 min) vs. unexposed dives (33 ± 14 min). This change in swimming gait when exposed to an external threat likely evolved to enable flexible escape responses from predators. However, if prolonged, such responses could lead to physiological changes that contribute to gas bubble formation and growth that could lead to animals stranding. Citation: Martín López, L. M., Isojunno, S., Cade, D., Colson, K., Paradinas, I., Miller, P. J. O., Fahlman, A., Hickmott, L. S. and F. Visser. Naval sonar induces an anaerobic swimming gait in beaked whales. Sci Rep 15, 38686 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-22490-5 Read the publication here: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-22490-5 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dr LEIGH S. HICKMOTT @leighhickmott Open Ocean Consulting 3B Oaklands Road Petersfield, Hampshire GU32 2EY, U.K. ________________________________

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Brucellosis in aquatic mammals - Book chapter
by Ignacio Vargas Castro 10 Nov '25

10 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our latest book chapter about brucellosis in aquatic mammals. Vargas-Castro, I., Hernández-Mora, G., González-Barrientos, R., & Grattarola, C. (2025). *Brucellosis in aquatic mammals*. In *Brucellosis. **The Silent Threat to Livestock and Human Health* (pp. 133-145). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-443-30067-7.00008-5 *Abstract*: The study of brucellosis in marine mammals has become crucial due to its zoonotic risks and its effects on marine species. The bacteria *Brucella ceti* and *Brucella pinnipedialis *cause significant health issues in cetaceans and pinnipeds, respectively. While *B. ceti* is associated with severe conditions and strandings, *B. pinnipedialis* often remains asymptomatic, though some cases of disease have been noted. The zoonotic potential of marine *Brucella* strains, particularly sequence type 27, further emphasizes the need for continuous surveillance and research. While real-time PCR is useful for detecting *Brucella* DNA, it faces limitations, making it unsuitable for direct application to these samples. Bacterial culture remains the gold standard for diagnosing brucellosis, and molecular techniques should be applied to these cultures to ensure accurate strain identification. Additionally, the limitation of standardized serological tests for all marine mammals species underscores the necessity for developing reliable and accesible diagnostic tools, including ELISAs, to improve diagnostic accuracy. Please do not hesitate to contact us for any questions you may have. Kind regards, *Ignacio Vargas Castro *[image: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8721-3150] <https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8721-3150> DVM, PhD Viral Immunology and Preventive Medicine Unit (SUAT) VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre & Animal Health Department Universidad Complutense Madrid Av. Puerta de Hierro, s/n. 28040 Madrid. Spainignavarg(a)ucm.eswww.sanidadanimal.info <https://www.sanidadanimal.info/en/> This message is private and confidential and it is intended exclusively for the addressee. If you receive this message by mistake, you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. Please inform the sender and delete the message and attachments from your system, as it is completely forbidden for you to use this information, according to the current legislation. No confidentiality nor any privilege regarding the information is waived or lost by any mistransmission or malfunction. The personal data herein will be collected in the file "Correoweb", under the ownership of the Vice-Rectorate for Information Technologies, in which those interested may exercise their right to access, rectify, erasure or right to object the contents (article 15-21 of Regulation (EU) 2016/679, General Data Protection Regulation). Before printing this mail please consider whether it is really necessary: the environment is a concern for us all.

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New paper on Abundance of humpback whale BSG
by Fernando Félix Grijalva 10 Nov '25

10 Nov '25

I’m pleased to inform on the recent publication of the article "Population estimate and demographic trends of humpback whale Breeding Stock G in Ecuador: insights from 15 years of land-based monitoring" Abstract Population abundance and demographic trends of the humpback whale Breeding Stock G (BSG) were estimated from land-based monitoring at the Santa Elena Peninsula tip, Ecuador (2°11.35′S, 81°0.63′W). The study was conducted between May and December from 2010 to 2024. The effort included 3,479.5 hours of observation from a land station, during which 7,218 whale groups were recorded. Boat-based data were used to complement land-based observations. Humpback whales arrived in early May, and last observations occurred in December. The northbound migration peak occurred in late June. The observation rate increased from 0.699 whales per hour in 2010 to 4.19 whales per hour in 2024, concordant with an increase in the population. Based on an estimated intrinsic population growth rate of 0.119, we estimated the population to be 27,864 (CI 95% 26,354-29,293) whales in 2024. The calf production rate for the period was 0.152. The average annual survival rate of the population was 0.956. The observed interannual variability on whale migration behavior was associated with El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). During strong El Niño years (2015 and 2023), the calf production rate increased, likely because a portion of the population did not reach the breeding area, artificially inflating the rate. In the years following a strong El Niño (2016 and 2024), the calf production rate decreased, while the population increased considerably as females that did not reached the breeding area the previous year joined with pregnant females in the former year. This relationship between migration behavior and environmental conditions warrants further analysis, particularly in light of increasing ocean climate variability and its implications for population assessments. Citation: Félix, F., & Haase, B. (2025). Population estimate and demographic trends of humpback whale Breeding Stock G in Ecuador: insights from 15 years of land-based monitoring. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 20(2), 122-135. The article can be reach through this link: https://www.lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1739/687 Fernando Félix

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Job posting: Laboratory Technician in Marine Mammal Science
by Athena Rycyk 10 Nov '25

10 Nov '25

Have you ever dreamed of troubleshooting acoustic analysis code in the morning, guiding graduate students through software training at midday, and running statistics for a manuscript in the afternoon? If that sounds like your perfect day, and you love challenges, we’d like to meet you. New College of Florida’s Marine Mammal Science group (ncf.edu/mimms) is hiring a Laboratory Technician to help move research from conception to practice to publication. In this role, you will: - Contribute to research projects spanning brain imaging, marine mammal cognition, acoustics, and more - Support graduate student training in tools, workflows, and best practices - Assist with manuscripts, figures, and data management with high attention to detail - Pitch in on lab/field operations (car required for travel to data collection sites), instrumentation, and QA/QC as needed What we’re looking for: - Curiosity, initiative, strong interpersonal skills, and calm under pressure - Experience with (or motivation to learn) coding/scripting, troubleshooting, and documentation - A collaborative teammate who enjoys learning new methods Timeline: We will begin reviewing applications on December 1. Apply here: https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/ncfl/jobs/5132061/laboratory-technician-… Questions about the program or position? Contact Nicole Vanderberg, Assistant Director, at nvanderberg(a)ncf.edu. Sincerely, The Marine Mammal Science Team (Peter Cook, Heidi Harley, and Athena Rycyk) -- *Athena Rycyk, Ph.D. *(she/her) Associate Professor of Marine Mammal Science & Biology Master's in Marine Mammal Science New College of Florida 5800 Bay Shore Rd. Sarasota, FL 34243-2109 Note: Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from state employees regarding state business are public records available to the public and media upon request. Your email communications may therefore be subject to public disclosure.

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Northcoast Marine Mammal Center Spring Internship Posting
by Lauren Himmelreich 10 Nov '25

10 Nov '25

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 1st 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. 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 Lauren Himmelreich Animal Care Manager Northcoast Marine Mammal Center 424 Howe Drive, Crescent City, CA 95531 [cid:47b9c18b-9f3e-42ee-8d81-ee9bb45c6850]

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New publication - diet and population trends in California sea lions
by Rosen, David 09 Nov '25

09 Nov '25

On behalf of my co-authors, I would like to share a new open access publication entitled: Environmental heterogeneity plays a bigger role than diet quality in driving divergent California sea lion population trends. Abstract: While the global population of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) is increasing, regional trends show a decline in the Gulf of California (GoC, Mexico) and an increase in the Channel Islands (CI, U.S.) over the last 40 years. The drivers of these divergent trends remain unclear, but previous pinniped studies suggest that differences in diet quality—rather than prey abundance—may play a role. We therefore examined how California sea lion population trajectories relate to diet quality, specifically looking at diet energy density and diet diversity. Using population and diet data from 1980 to 2020 for sea lions in the GoC and CI, we found no simple relationships between population trajectories and diet quality over time at either the local or regional level. Energy densities of sea lion diets were similar between the two regions, but GoC sea lions consumed a more diverse range of prey (n = 88 vs. 23 main prey taxa) dominated by benthic species and schooling fishes, while CI diets consisted mainly of schooling fishes and squid. We also found that GoC sea lions ate more benthic prey and less schooling fish during the 2014–2016 heatwave—decreasing their overall diet energy density. This shift coincided with a temporary population decline in the CI but had variable effects on GoC populations. Overall, our findings suggest that regional population trends are influenced by complex ecological factors beyond diet quality alone, highlighting the need to consider environmental variability and prey composition when assessing the resilience of sea lion populations to climate-driven changes. The paper is freely available as: Pozas-Franco AL, Rosen DAS, Trites AW, García-Rodríguez FJ, Hernández-Camacho CJ (2025) Environmental heterogeneity plays a bigger role than diet quality in driving divergent California sea lion population trends. PLoS One 20(11): e0324108. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. pone.0324108

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Funded PhD SealMove
by Cecile Vincent 09 Nov '25

09 Nov '25

Dear all, We are looking for enthusiastic candidates with strong background in statistical data analysis and related computational methods, to undertake a PhD in "Mechanisms of Wild Seal Movements: A Computational Approach" (SealMove), starting in October 2026. The call is open until December 12th, 2025. Further details can be found at: https://www.eu-conexus.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03.-SUBJECT_CALL_FORM_… https://www.eu-conexus.eu/en/phd/phd-cotutelle/msca-cofund-eu-docs-for-smuc… <https://www.eu-conexus.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03.-SUBJECT_CALL_FORM_…> The PhD will be based at the Pelagis laboratory in La Rochelle, France, and the candidate will spend nine months at the Marine Science Center in Rostock, Germany, and three months at the CATS bio-logging company in Australia. Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, /etc/.) in France for more than 12 months between December 2022 and December 2025. Knowledge of French is not necessary. For questions related to the scientific program, please feel free to email cvincent(a)univ-lr.fr, frederike.hanke(a)uni-rostock.de and niko(a)cats.is. For administrative questions related to the application process, please email eudocs_cofund(a)univ-lr.fr Kind regards, Cecile Vincent, Frederike Hanke and Nikolai Liebsch

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New paper: The metabolome of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) reveals clues as to their extreme fasting capabilities
by Erika Oteri 08 Nov '25

08 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM Community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication in Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part D: Genomics and Proteomics, titled "The metabolome of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) reveals clues as to their extreme fasting capabilities". The paper is freely available here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cbd.2025.101670 Abstract Southern Hemisphere humpback whales are capital breeders, relying on energy reserves accumulated through summer feeding in the Southern Ocean to fuel reproduction and migration. Understanding the fasting physiology of these populations, which lose up to 50 % of their post-summer feeding body mass during seasonal migration, is of great importance, particularly in the context of a rapidly changing Antarctic sea-ice ecosystem. Additionally, fluctuations in lipid reserves are known to mobilise lipophilic contaminants, potentially rendering seasonal fasting a time of elevated toxicological risk. This study analysed blubber biopsies from humpback whales migrating along the east coast of Australia. Biopsies were collected at two timepoints on the migration, corresponding to ∼3 and 6 months fasted, respectively. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy identified 32 polar metabolites in blubber, mainly involved in fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. Eleven of these metabolites showed significant differences between the two fasting stages, indicating changes in fatty acid oxidation, body condition, protein catabolism and glucose conservation. This is the first study to investigate the polar metabolomic alterations associated with migration in humpback whales, providing insights into biochemical pathways related to their fasting physiology. Metabolomic analysis holds the potential to identify metabolite patterns linked to nutritional and environmental stress, critical for ongoing biomonitoring of the Antarctic ecosystem. Citation: Oteri, E., Bar, I., Melvin, S. D., Raffan, E., & Nash, S. B. (2026). The metabolome of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) reveals clues as to their extreme fasting capabilities. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part D: Genomics and Proteomics, 57, 101670. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cbd.2025.101670 Kind regards, Erika Oteri | PhD Candidate Southern Ocean Persistent Organic Pollutants Program School of Environment & Science Griffith University | Nathan Campus | QLD 4111 Australia Email: erika.oteri(a)griffithuni.edu.au

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New publication: What gray whales are telling us about ecosystem change in the Pacific Arctic
by Stewart, Joshua 08 Nov '25

08 Nov '25

Dear colleagues, I’m pleased to share our new open access publication, "What gray whales are telling us about ecosystem change in the Pacific Arctic” Abstract: Gray whales in the eastern North Pacific have been in steep decline for the past six years, and recent estimates of abundance, reproductive output, and strandings suggest this decline is continuing and could be accelerating. These developments have been particularly alarming as gray whales are considered a species of low conservation concern given their strong recovery from post-whaling levels. However, their recovery has coincided with rapid ocean warming, leading to reduced sea ice and increased northward transport of Pacific water through the Bering Strait that is impacting prey quality and availability in gray whales’ sub-Arctic and Arctic feeding areas. The recent population downturn may in fact be a predictable result of the convergence of a strong recovery with compounding climate impacts. https://academic.oup.com/icesjms/article/82/11/fsaf196/8316409?utm_source=a… Stewart, JD, Grebmeier, JM, Tinker, MT, Calambokidis, J, Moore, SE. What gray whales are telling us about ecosystem change in the Pacific Arctic, ICES Journal of Marine Science 82(11) https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsaf196 Cheers, Joshua Stewart

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