November 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: Tracing nutrient allocation in capital breeding baleen whales using amino acid stable isotope analysis: a novel method to infer protein balance and reproductive status
by Geraldine Busquets 07 Nov '25

07 Nov '25

Dear colleagues, I am pleased to share our new publication on southern right whale physiology: *Tracing nutrient allocation in capital breeding baleen whales using amino acid stable isotope analysis: a novel method to infer protein balance and reproductive status* We describe for the first time the nutrient allocation strategies used by different demographic groups. We also tested a classification method similar in concept to a “lactation test,” allowing us to identify lactating females based on carbon (δ¹³C) and nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) amino acid patterns in skin. *Abstract:* Assessing reproductive status and the nutrient allocation strategies animals use to reproduce is integral for evaluating their vulnerability to environmental change; however, the elusive nature of many animals hinders our ability to assess the impact of these vital life history events on homeostasis. We developed a proxy for assessing protein balance in capital-breeding southern right whales (*Eubalaena australis*) based on carbon (δ¹³C) and nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) stable isotope analysis of amino acids (AA) in skin biopsy samples (n = 82) collected from free-ranging whales. Most AA in lactating females (cows) had higher δ¹³C but lower δ¹⁵N values compared to adult non-lactating females and adult males, suggesting they route fat stores for milk production and use protein reserves to maintain tissues. Lower AA δ¹⁵N values are likely associated with protein sparing and/or modifications to the urea cycle to retain or recycle nitrogen during reproduction. Nursing calves had distinctive AA δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N patterns compared to cows and adults, likely driven by the acquisition of protein from milk and the use of maternal resources in utero to support the high metabolic demands associated with rapid growth. Adult males and non-lactating adult females had nearly identical AA δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N patterns, suggesting they use similar nutrient allocation strategies while fasting. Patterns in δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values among AA yielded correct classification of demographic groups with 98% accuracy and identification of lactating cows with 100% accuracy, showing that this new method holds promise for identifying the reproductive status of capital-breeding mammals. *Citation:* Busquets-Vass, G., Carroll, E. L., Lübcker, N. *et al.* (2025). *Tracing nutrient allocation in capital breeding baleen whales using amino acid stable isotope analysis: a novel method to infer protein balance and reproductive status.* *Oecologia, 207*, 186. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00442-025-05817-x Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Best regards, *Geraldine Busquets-Vass* (on behalf of all co-authors) <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

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37th European Cetacean Society conference 2026 - CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
by Tilen Genov 07 Nov '25

07 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM community We are pleased to announce that abstract submissions are now open for the 37th European Cetacean Society conference, which will be held in *Dundee, Scotland, from 22nd to 24th April 2026*, with workshops on 20th and 21st April 2026. The theme for ECS 2026 will be “*Basics to Benefits*”. Every discovery and breakthrough starts with curiosity. This year’s conference theme “Basics to Benefits” celebrates the full journey of marine mammal science - from the foundational research that uncovers knowledge to the applied studies that turn this understanding into action for conservation and management. By embracing contributions from a wide range of sources, and valuing the search for knowledge for its own sake as much as its application, we recognise that today’s discoveries and insights and tomorrow’s applications to conservation and management are both born from the same drive to understand and protect. This theme aims to reflect this spectrum of marine mammal research, exploring and showcasing its challenges and opportunities, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. We invite researchers, students, and practitioners from across the marine mammal community to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations. Contributions are welcome on all aspects of marine mammal science, including (but not limited to) ecology, behaviour, physiology, acoustics, conservation, and policy. *The abstract submissions are now open!* Key dates: - Abstract submission deadline: 9 December 2025 (note: no extension!) - Workshop proposals deadline: 11 December 2025 - Early registration deadline: 5 March 2026 Further details, including abstract guidelines and submission links, are available on the ECS website: https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/ Any questions for the local organising committee? Please contact them via: ecs2026scotland(a)europeancetaceansociety.eu. We look forward to receiving your contributions and to welcoming you to Dundee for what promises to be yet another engaging and inspiring conference. Tilen Genov Chair, European Cetacean Society www.europeancetaceansociety.eu [image: ECS_2026_banner.png]

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New Publication - West Coast Transient Killer Whales
by Josh McInnes 06 Nov '25

06 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share a new publication in marine mammal science entitled: Social associations and habitat selection delineate two subpopulations of west coast transient killer whales (Orcinus orca rectipinnus) in the California Current System *Abstract* West coast transient (mammal-eating) killer whales (Orcinus orca rectipinnus) inhabit the California Current off the west coast of North America from southern British Columbia, Canada to southern California, United States. Although genetically distinct from other killer whale populations, observed differences in social associations and habitat use of some individuals suggest that west coast transient killer whales may not constitute a single, socially and spatially discrete population. We analyzed 2,232 georeferenced encounters of photographed transient killer whales collected between 2005 and 2021 from dedicated research ship surveys, small vessel surveys, and opportunistic sightings, to assess their social and population structure in relation to habitat characteristics. Using social network and geospatial analysis software, we identified two socially and geographically independent subpopulations with cohesive social structures—one that frequents shallow nearshore coastal areas (inner coast subpopulation) and a second that primarily inhabits deeper waters along the continental shelf-break and slope (outer coast subpopulation). The inner coast subpopulation (n = 345 photo-identified whales) most commonly occurred in intracoastal waterways and along the shallow coastal margins of the continental shelf where they fed primarily on pinnipeds and small cetaceans within 5 km of shore. In contrast, the outer coast subpopulation (n = 211 photo-identified whales) occurred within 6.1 km of the continental shelf-break and in far offshore waters (e.g., 120 km offshore) near deep submarine canyons and subsurface sea mounts—where they fed primarily on pelagic pinnipeds, oceanic delphinids, and large cetaceans. Our findings demonstrate that the west coast transient killer whale population, though genetically distinct, is structured into two socially and ecologically distinct subpopulations along the west coast of North America. This division underscores the need for conservation efforts to be tailored to their unique ecological and social characteristics. *Citation: *McInnes JD, Trites AW, Lester KM, Mathieson CR, Dill LM, Moore JE, et al. (2025) Social associations and habitat selection delineate two subpopulations of west coast transient killer whales (Orcinus orca rectipinnus) in the California Current System. PLoS One 20(11): e0325156. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0325156 Read the publication here: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0325156

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Manatee Management Job Opportunity
by Pasawicz, Michelle 06 Nov '25

06 Nov '25

Greetings everyone, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking a Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist IV to aid the section's Manatee Management Program. The Manatee Warm-water Habitat Coordinator position is responsible for the collaborative implementation of the Manatee Warm-water Habitat Action Plan. This position will serve in a leadership capacity by facilitating the long-term prioritization of warm-water habitat networks, coordinating interagency habitat restoration and enhancement efforts, and overseeing the successful collaboration of statewide regional partnership teams. Please follow this link to the job posting to learn more about this opportunity: https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/TALLAHASSEE-FISHERIES-&-WILDLIFE-BIO-SCIENTI… Sincerely, Michelle R. Pasawicz Manatee Management Program Coordinator Imperiled Species Management Section Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission<https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/manatee/> 620 South Meridian Street - 6A Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 (850) 922-4330 Michelle.Pasawicz(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Michelle.Pasawicz@MyFWC.com>

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DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS 2026 - SARDINIA ISLAND (ITALY)
by Fabio Ronchetti 06 Nov '25

06 Nov '25

Join MareTerra ERC for a unique internship experience in marine research and conservation, taking place between May and October 2026 on Sardinia Island (Italy) — one of the Mediterranean’s richest biodiversity hotspots ( https://www.mareterra-erc.org/en/internship) As an intern, you’ll be part of a passionate, international team working on projects focused on the conservation of bottlenose dolphins and the marine environment. You’ll learn how to monitor dolphin behaviour, habitat use, abundance, and distribution using techniques like photo-identification, GIS, and Species Distribution Modelling. You will collect georeferenced data on dolphin sightings, fishing activities and marine traffic. Beyond fieldwork, you’ll actively participate in environmental education initiatives aboard our boats, helping raise awareness and promote respect for the marine ecosystem among tourists and local communities. *What we’re looking for* Our goal is to create a working group that enables each participant to grow both as a researcher and as an individual, by strengthening existing skills and developing new ones where needed. To take part in this internship, you should: - Be fluent in English (minimum level: B2) - Be confident, punctual, and adaptable to an international work environment - Have good public relations skills - Be comfortable on motorboats and able to swim well - Be between 20 and 30 years old This experience requires motivation, responsibility, and a genuine willingness to work long hours in the field — but it’s also a chance to grow, learn, and contribute meaningfully to marine conservation. 📚 Curious about our research? You can explore our published papers: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TegikzmahuAUeWMGS3AS-SlCS_s3I_hd?us… 📩 If you have questions or would like more information about how to apply, feel free to write to us at info(a)mareterra-erc.org. Gabriella La Manna, Ph.D --- 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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Environmental History Seminar: Caribbean whaling
by Russell Fielding 06 Nov '25

06 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM list colleagues, I'm writing to share the announcement for an upcoming environmental history seminar that I will give for the Massachusetts Historical Society on 9 December 2025 on the topic of whaling in the Caribbean. Specifically, the discussion will illustrate the historical connections between 18th- and 19th-century American whaling as described in Melville's Moby-Dick and whaling as it's practiced in St. Vincent & the Grenadines today. The event is free, open to the public, and intended for a general audience. It will take place in-person in Boston and simultaneously online. The organizers ask that interested participants preregister at the following link: https://www.masshist.org/events/so-wide-a-chase Registered participants will receive by email a draft of the paper being discussed a day or so before the event. Thank you, Russell Fielding -- Russell Fielding, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Anthropology & Geography, Spadoni College of Education & Social Sciences HTC Honors College Coastal Carolina University Conway, SC 29528-6054 USA +1 843-349-2396 rfielding(a)coastal.edu<mailto:rfielding@coastal.edu> russellfielding.com<https://russellfielding.com/>

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Sherrie Eldridge dissertation online
by Michael Moore 05 Nov '25

05 Nov '25

Apologies if this is a repeat of a prior alert. As many of you know, Dr. Sherrie Eldridge and colleagues undertook a remarkable study of somatosensory innervation in the skin of humpback whales when a PhD student at U Mass Dartmouth, USA. There is a posthumous publication reporting some of that work, https://doi.org/10.1002/ar.24856. She had delayed publication of her dissertation until it was published as papers. I was thrilled to find that her thesis is now available online. https://repository.lib.umassd.edu/view/pdfCoverPage?instCode=01MA_DM_INST&f… Title: Somatosensory innervation in the aquatically-adapted skin of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae): a dissertation in Marine Science and Technology : Living Marine Resources Science and Management. Michael Moore Emeritus Research Scholar Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution mmoore(a)whoi.edu

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Whale Research & Ocean Monitoring – Volunteer/Internship Program in the Azores
by JoseNuno GomesPereira 05 Nov '25

05 Nov '25

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the third edition of the Whale Research & Ocean Monitoring Internship hosted by Naturalist – Science & Tourism on Faial Island, Azores, Portugal | The North Atlantic Whale and Shark Sanctuary & Hope Spot with more than 28 cetacean species recorded. This is a unique opportunity to join a vibrant academic environment and gain hands-on experience in cetacean and ocean monitoring www.naturalist.pt/azoreswhaleschool Program Details - When: Weekly sessions (Monday to Saturday) between 16 March and 15 October (except 1 July–7 September). Minimum stay: one week <https://www.naturalist.pt/azoreswhaleschool> - Background / Eligibility: All levels welcome; English required; minimum age 18+. - Included every week: - +4 Whale & Dolphin Expeditions (boat-based surveys) with data collection. <https://www.naturalist.pt/azoreswhaleschool> - Special Talks on cetacean biology, ocean monitoring field methods and new findings. <https://www.naturalist.pt/azoreswhaleschool> - Land-Based Survey and Lab Work (coastal monitoring or lab data analysis). - You will achieve: - Work directly with large whales and delphinids - Learn main field techniques: ID, ethology, acoustic, photo-ID, and more. - Support monitoring and conservation efforts on North Atlantic Cetaceans - Academic Environment: All activities are supervised by resident PhD researchers affiliated with the University of Lisbon and the University of the Azores. Participants collaborate with ongoing monitoring and research programs. naturalist <https://www.naturalist.pt/azoreswhaleschool> - Costs, Accommodation & Meals: The teaching program has a weekly fee. This does not include accommodation and meals. However, a variety of options and restaurants are available within walking distance. - Location & Contact: Base: Cais de Santa Cruz, Loja A1, 9900-026 Horta, Faial Island, Azores, Portugal Website: www.naturalist.pt/azoreswhaleschool <https://www.naturalist.pt/> Email: contact(a)naturalist.pt Our team is glad to welcome all applications from motivated individuals interested in cetology, marine research and conservation. Naturalist regards from the Azores

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New assessment of cetacean welfare in the Faroe Islands’ drive hunt
by Laetitia Nunny/OceanCare 05 Nov '25

05 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM Our new open access paper "An assessment of cetacean welfare in the Faroe Islands’ drive hunt" has been published today in Biology Letters and is available here: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsbl.2025.0311 The lead author Alick Simmons will present the paper in a research webinar on Friday, November 7, 2025, 3:00–3:30 PM (GMT+1). https://cassyni.com/events/Wpz5v4kjyFJugL7yuMzYKf Citation: Simmons, A.G., Boys, R.M., Nunny, L. and Simmonds, M.P. (2025) An assessment of cetacean welfare in the Faroe Islands’ drive hunt. Biology Letters 21: 20250311. http://doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2025.0311 Abstract: Drive hunts in the Faroes and Japan typically involve prolonged herding of cetaceans (over hours or even days) into shallow water, forced stranding, restraint and killing using a spinal lance and exsanguination. These methods raise significant animal welfare concerns. This study applies the Five Domains Model to the Faroe Islands’ grindadráp hunt to consider potential welfare implications and associated affective states. We examined published hunting guidelines and divided the hunt into six stages. Each author independently summarized potential impacts within the Five Domains Model; subsequent group consensus via online meetings assigned likely welfare impacts and affective states. Demonstrable welfare impacts and negative affective states were identified for each grindadráp stage. The prolonged chase, forced stranding, capture and restraint probably cause chronic and acute physiological stress. The spinal lance may not render animals instantaneously unconscious, raising substantial concerns that some animals may remain aware during exsanguination. Commonly inferred affective states for each domain included: pain, anxiety, disorientation, fear and panic. Given the inherent constraints of the hunt, it is unlikely that grindadráp can be undertaken humanely. If the hunt is to continue, substantial reform would be necessary to minimize animal suffering and align with welfare standards applicable to mammals in food production or research. With best wishes, Alick Simmons, Rebecca Boys, Laetitia Nunny and Mark Simmonds ____________________________________ OceanCare Laetitia Nunny Senior Science Officer Gerbestrasse 6 CH-8820 Waedenswil - Switzerland lnunny(a)oceancare.org<mailto:lnunny@oceancare.org> www.oceancare.org<http://www.oceancare.org/> [Ein Bild, das Text, Riff, Natur, Organismus enthält. KI-generierte Inhalte können fehlerhaft sein.]<https://www.oceancare.org/en/becauseourplanetisblue/> OceanCare strives for effective protection of marine habitats and urges governments to enforce conservation measures that restore ecosystems harmed by human activities – Because Our Planet Is Blue. Stay informed and subscribe to our Newsletter: https://www.oceancare.org/en/take-action/newsletter/ OceanCare is an international marine conservation non-governmental organisation, founded in Switzerland in 1989. The organisation pursues the protection and restoration of the marine environment and marine wildlife with a strong policy focus, combining research, conservation projects and education. OceanCare’s remit includes marine pollution, climate change, marine mammal hunting and the environmental consequences of fisheries. Its work is supported by a team of scientific, legal and policy experts, and involves strategic collaboration with civil society organisations and coalitions around the world. OceanCare is an officially accredited partner and observer to several UN conventions and other international fora. Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail. This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender and delete the message.

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Jonian Dolphin Conservation Expedition – December 2025 Edition
by lia＠joniandolphin.it 05 Nov '25

05 Nov '25

Dear MARMAM Community, We are excited to announce a new session of the Jonian Dolphin Conservation (JDC) Expedition, a field-based scientific experience focused on the monitoring and study of cetaceans in the Gulf of Taranto, Northern Ionian Sea (southern Italy). The December 2025 edition will take place from 9–15 December, offering a one-week immersive training program designed for students, early-career researchers, and anyone interested in gaining practical skills in marine mammal science. Participants will work alongside professional researchers with over 15 years of field experience. Highlights of the expedition include: · Fieldwork aboard our research vessel for data collection on dolphin behavior and distribution · Techniques in photo-identification, acoustic monitoring, genetic sampling, drone use, and environmental data recording · Daily workshops and data analysis sessions at Ketos, JDC's scientific and cultural hub · Discussions on marine biodiversity, ecological dynamics of the Ionian Sea, and the ethical challenges of cetacean captivity All program details, the full PDF with course information, and the registration form can be found on the landing page: 🔗 https://www.joniandolphin.it/jdc-expedition-dicembre-2025/ For further questions, participants can contact us at 📧 areaprogetti(a)joniandolphin.it or book a call with our team here We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals ready to contribute to meaningful research and marine conservation. Warm regards, The Jonian Dolphin Conservation Team 🌐 www.joniandolphin.it www.joniandolphin.it Francesca Cornelia Santacesaria Responsabile Ricerca e Tirocini +39 340 7204648lia(a)joniandolphin.it

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