June 2026 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New Publication: Global patterns and predictors of PFAS contamination in odontocetes
by lavinia stokes 19 Jun '26

19 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to share our new paper published in *Marine Pollution Bulletin*: *Global patterns and predictors of PFAS contamination in odontocetes* Lavinia Stokes, Karen A. Stockin, Gavin Stevenson, Jesuina de Araujo, Frédérik Saltré, Katharina J. Peters Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 231, 2026, 119949, ISSN 0025-326X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119949. The paper is available through open access here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X26007368 You can also find an article in The Conversation using the following link: https://theconversation.com/levels-of-forever-chemicals-in-dolphins-and-wha… *Abstract*: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are globally recognised as contaminants of emerging concern due to their persistence, toxicity, endocrine-disrupting and immunosuppressive effects. Because of their extensive industrial use, PFAS are now widespread across ecosystems and accumulate in marine environments. Despite their ubiquity, the extent and drivers of PFAS contamination remain poorly characterised, particularly in marine systems. Odontocetes (toothed whales) are effective bioindicators of marine pollution, integrating contamination across regions, time, and trophic levels. Here, we present the first global assessment of factors influencing PFAS contamination in marine ecosystems by analysing standardised PFAS concentrations of PFNA, PFDA, PFUnDA, PFDoDA and PFOS reported for 713 liver samples across 33 odontocete species spanning 13 countries from 2000 to 2023. Using generalised linear mixed models, we evaluated the effects of genus, location, sex, life stage, and sampling year on PFAS concentrations, combining published datasets with new samples from Australia. Genus and location were the strongest predictors, suggesting that interspecific ecological and physiological traits likely contribute to PFAS accumulation. Concentrations were highest in males and younger individuals, consistent with maternal offloading and possible age-related dilution. Spatio-temporal trends indicate that PFAS contamination is widespread and increasing globally, with highest concentrations reported in the Pacific. This study provides a critical baseline for understanding global PFAS exposure in marine mammals, which underscores the need for coordinated monitoring and further research to address regional data gaps and potential unrecognised biological effects. Thanks for reading! Keep up the amazing work all!! 🐋🦭🐬 Kind regards, *Lavinia Stokes *(she/her) Conservation Biologist I acknowledge the traditional custodians and knowledge holders of Dharawal country and all the lands in which I work, play and live. I pay my respects to the elders past, present and future.

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New publication: Year-Round Passive Acoustic Detection of Sperm Whales in the Cerralvo Channel Within the Gulf of California, Mexico
by Braulio Leon Lopez 19 Jun '26

19 Jun '26

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to share our recent publiction in Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems: Cruz‐Villagran, H., Leon‐Lopez, B. & Romero‐Vivas, E. (2026). Year-Round Passive Acoustic Detection of Sperm Whales in the Cerralvo Channel Within the Gulf of California, Mexico. *Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems*, 36(6), e70410. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.70410 *Abstract* Historically, sperm whales have been consistently observed in the Gulf of California (GoC). However, recent research has documented a reduction in sperm whale sightings around the centre of the GoC, which may be representative of a population decline, prompting concerns about their conservation status in the entire gulf. In this study, using passive acoustic monitoring, the presence of sperm whales in the southern region of the GoC (Cerralvo Channel) is demonstrated. Sperm whales were acoustically detected in eight deployments of a moored hydrophone system from November 2022 to December 2023. Higher detection event rates were found during the day; however, event duration did not differ between day and night. Group composition estimates from call analysis indicated a predominance of immature individuals and adult females/juveniles, with adult males less frequently detected. Recent claims have suggested sperm whale decline in the central area; however, our findings suggest year-round presence in the southern region. These results highlight the relevance of passive acoustic monitoring to study sperm whales in the GoC. Obtaining accurate data is fundamental to establish conservation efforts for the population in the GoC, a priority region for cetacean protection. Best regards, *Braulio León-López, Ph.D.* * Postdoctoral Researcher, SECIHTI Fellowship* Acoustics and Signal Processing Research Group / Natural History Museum Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR) Edificio COVITECS +52 612 175 1230 ext. 5106 <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> -- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- *Este correo puede contener datos personales, por lo que su distribución es responsabilidad de la persona servidora pública que lo emite.*

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Publication: Novel prey item identified for estuarine bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops erebennus) in the Southeastern United States
by Andrea Swinehart 19 Jun '26

19 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of all co-authors, I am pleased to share our new publication in Scientific Reports. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-49771-x Swinehart, A.L., Valencia, A.K.N., Cook, K.L., Lentz, N. J., and Gibson, Q. A. Novel prey item identified for estuarine bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops erebennus) in the Southeastern United States. Sci Rep 16, 18735 (2026). Abstract: The community of Tamanend’s bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops erebennus) inhabiting the St. Johns River (SJR) in Jacksonville, Florida, is affected by a suite of challenges including dredging, vessel traffic, fishing gear entanglements, pollution, and natural disturbances. Despite regular observations of foraging during photo-identification surveys, this study is the first to identify SJR dolphin prey. We describe species composition, size, and relative proportions of prey found in the stomachs of dead dolphins that stranded in the SJR (n = 10) and were the first to document violet goby (Gobioides broussonnetii) as bottlenose dolphin prey. These findings provide a baseline understanding of SJR dolphin foraging ecology. Details provided in this study will assist in the identification of violet goby consumption, should it occur within other dolphin communities. Prey identification within a vital dolphin habitat can inform ecosystem-based management decisions that will preserve the St. Johns River estuary. By identifying a previously undetected prey item, this study also expands knowledge of potential bottlenose dolphin prey on the Atlantic coast of the United States. Please feel free to reach out to andrea.swinehart(a)gmail.com with any questions. Cheers, Andrea Swinehart MSc, University of North Florida in Jacksonville, FL

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New publication: Genomic insights into the evolutionary history of Berardius beaked whales: speciation driven by resource specialization, gigantism and thermal barriers? (Morgan McCarthy)
by Morgan McCarthy 18 Jun '26

18 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of all co-authors, we are excited to share our new publication exploring the evolutionary relationships of *Berardius *beaked whales. Abstract attached below! Morgan McCarthy morgan(a)sund.ku.dk Paper link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mec.70426 Abstract: Understanding the diversity of our oceans is fundamental now more than ever as climate change and human activities put increasing pressure on marine species and ecosystems. Beaked whales (family Ziphiidae) are among the most poorly understood marine mammals, in part due to their affinity to offshore underwater canyons and prolonged diving ability. The ziphiid genus *Berardius* is comprised of three extant species, however a lack of genomic data results in uncertainties of their evolutionary origin, phylogenetic relationships and the past environmental drivers of speciation and demographic fluctuations. Here, we analyze whole nuclear and mitochondrial genomes to better understand the evolutionary and demographic history of *Berardius *spp. Genome-wide comparisons support an initial divergence of *B. minimus* from the *B. bairdii *- *B. arnuxii* common ancestor ~ 4 million years ago (mya), and a divergence between *B. bairdii *and *B. arnuxii* ~ 1.5 mya. Despite these deep divergence times, gene flow was detected between species pairs for at least 75% of their post-divergence branch lengths. Strong levels of introgression (~8%) were detected between the non-sister but geographically overlapping *B. bairdii* and *B. minimus *species, despite their significant differences in body size. Our results show that the *Berardius* speciation process goes beyond simple bifurcating divergences. We hypothesize that resource specialization and an increased body size in the *B. bairdii* - *B. arnuxii* ancestor may have been an incipient driver of speciation, and further that climate cycles during the late Pleistocene, coupled with ranging movements to the tropics, could have permitted repeated opportunities for gene flow between species.

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Rice's whale webinar June 25
by Tommy Tucker 18 Jun '26

18 Jun '26

Hello MARMAM community! Join the Endangered Species Coalition on Thursday, June 25 at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TcDCdLaOSKujqJXrF1mo8A?link_id=…> for a webinar with Rice’s whale experts to learn what makes these whales so unique, what threats they face, and how we can help protect their future. During the webinar, researchers will share the latest on Rice’s whale science and why stronger safeguards are urgently needed. The conversation will then pivot to Endangered Species Coalition's national policy director who will walk through how to submit a public comment before the July 6 <https://endangered.quorum.us/campaign/163889/>deadline and, for those able, use your voice to support protections for this critically imperiled species. Please share broadly with your networks. Feel free to use the email draft and flyer below to share with more general audiences: " Dear friends, The Gulf of Mexico is home to a species of whale that isn’t found anywhere else in the world: the Rice’s whale. With fewer than 100 individuals left, this unique Gulf species needs our help. Please join the Endangered Species Coalition on Thursday, June 25 at 8:00 PM ET for a webinar <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TcDCdLaOSKujqJXrF1mo8A#/registr…>with Rice’s whale experts to learn how to protect them. >From now until July 6, use your voice to submit a comment to the federal government urging them to protect this unique species of whale <https://endangered.quorum.us/campaign/163889/>. The federal government is conducting a status review of the species, and we need to make sure that the people conducting the review have the best available information. Marine mammal scientists will share what they’ve learned about Rice’s whales throughout their career and the Endangered Species Coalition's national policy director will equip you with tools to use this knowledge. There will be time at the end for a Q&A where you can bring your questions to the experts. The 51 whales in the Gulf are counting on you. Learn the stories of some of the individual Rice’s whales here <https://www.endangered.org/how-many-whales-does-it-take-to-save-a-species-t…> . Please RSVP here <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TcDCdLaOSKujqJXrF1mo8A#/registr…> . I look forward to working with each of you to protect Rice’s whales, " xoxo Tommy 🌈🐳 -- Tommy Tucker <https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-tucker-8523a91a7/> Marine Life Field Coordinator Endangered Species Coalition (409) 679-0719 they, them + why it matters <https://pronouns.org/what-and-why/> Ask me about Rice's whales <https://www.ourgulfwhale.org/> www.endangered.org Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/endangeredspeciescoalition> | X <https://x.com/endangered> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/endangeredspeciescoalition/?hl=en>

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Please post: First Announcement for Eleventh International Sirenian Symposium
by nicole adimey 18 Jun '26

18 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM Community- Please join us for the Eleventh International Sirenian Symposium—a full day dedicated to fostering international collaboration, networking, and mentorship among those engaged in sirenian research and conservation. The Symposium aims to support collaboration and strengthen sirenian research networks across the 80+ range states, with a particular focus on the 70+ developing countries within this range. Objectives include sharing new scientific findings, addressing current and emerging threats, and promoting mentorship for students pursuing careers in marine mammal science and conservation. Presentations may cover a wide range of topics, including human–sirenian interactions, physiology, monitoring applications, modeling, genetics, captive care and rehabilitation, management, general biology, stranding response, and education and outreach. The program will feature full-length presentations, speed talks, a poster session, an update from the Sirenian Specialist Group, and dedicated time for networking. Those interested in presenting research (poster or oral) should submit an abstract by *August 15, 2026* to Nicole Adimey at: adimey22(a)gmail.com. Abstract formatting guidelines are available on the conference website: https://www.smmconference.org/abstract-submission. Preference will be given to researchers from developing countries and abstracts that address the conference theme, “One Ocean, One Future.” Presenters are encouraged to share novel work and clearly demonstrate how their research contributes to sirenian conservation and supports regional initiatives or current management challenges. -- Nicole Adimey 904-655-0730

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SMM2026 Workshop: Innovations in modelling cetacean populations
by georgie whittome 17 Jun '26

17 Jun '26

Dear MARMAN, We are excited to announce the following workshop at the SMM Conference in Puerto Rico on Saturday, October 17th 2026: *Innovations in modelling cetacean populations:* https://www.smmconference.org/workshops/#1776734102839-9aaa367e-6753 This workshop aims to bring together early career and established researchers to explore opportunities and challenges with the latest technological and statistical innovations in cetacean population modelling and abundance estimation, and discuss the future direction of this field. Estimating abundance and completing population assessments are fundamental components of conservation research and managing cetacean populations. Emerging data sources provide new opportunities, address limitations in previous methods and provide more data for many cryptic species. Furthermore, new methods and statistical modelling approaches are being developed that provide novel insights from more ‘traditional’ data sources. These approaches tackle some of the historical challenges stemming from data collection in marine environments and cetacean behavior. In addition, climate change is leading to increasing environmental variability and extreme events, creating issues for population assessments which have traditionally treated demographic parameters as static over time. As we look forward to the future direction of the field, this workshop will consider how we can account for these increasing phenomena. The workshop will be split into three sections which will each consist of a series of short talks from subject experts followed by small-group discussions. The sections will be (1) technical innovations providing new data sources (e.g. high-throughput genetic sequencing, environmental DNA, etc.), (2) new statistical approaches (e.g. density estimation from passive acoustic monitoring, spatial-capture-recapture models, data integration etc.), and (3) future directions and accounting for climate variability. A full agenda with speakers and finalised topics will be sent to all participants before the workshop. This workshop will be a unique opportunity for researchers interested in emerging techniques in cetacean population modelling to share their expertise, learn from fellow researchers and look forward to the evolution of this field of research as we address critical conservation challenges and seek to effectively manage threats to cetacean populations. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or if you are conducting research which would be a good fit for discussion in the workshop we'd love to hear about it too. We hope to see you there! Georgina Whittome & Zoe Rand

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Looking to gain certification as a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO), Protected Species Observer (PSO) or Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operator? Limited places at OSC - BOOK NOW!
by OSC Admin 17 Jun '26

17 Jun '26

Dear MARMAMERS! Our renowned OSC MMO(JNCC), PSO (NOAA, BOEM & BSEE), and PAM(IMarEST) courses are underway this year with great feedback: Super clear and comprehensive. Really appreciate the anecdotes. Thanks for such a great session on cetacean acoustics - and with a lot of passion! We're delighted to let you know that we still have spaces in our courses this year for the following sessions: * Session 3 - MMO - Jun 30 (1 day); PSO - Jul 1 (0.5 day); PAM - Jul 1-3 (2.5 days) * Session 4 - MMO - Sept 8 (1 day); PSO - Sept 9 (0.5 day); PAM - Sept 9-11 (2.5 days) * Session 5 - MMO - Nov 17 (1 day); PSO - Nov 18 (0.5 day); PAM - Nov 18-20 (2.5 days) It's the perfect time to enhance your expertise, advance your professional development, or connect with others who share your passion. These courses are carefully crafted to keep you at the forefront of the industry. As an MMO/PSO/PAMO, your judgement in a single moment can protect marine life and influence some of the world's largest offshore operations. With a strong focus on interactivity and practical application, each course will equip you with valuable skills and knowledge you can put to use straight away. Our experienced instructors are committed to guiding you throughout your learning journey, ensuring you get the most from every session. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a dynamic learning environment and elevate your capabilities. Courses are delivered by the authors of the highly regarded 'How To guide', Marine Mammal Observer & Passive Acoustic Monitoring Handbook. If you're interested in enrolling or have any queries, please reach out to us regarding MMO & PAM Training Courses on admin(a)osc.co.uk<mailto:admin@osc.co.uk>. Spaces are limited and filling up quickly, so secure your place soon. We look forward to welcoming you to the programme and supporting your ongoing success in the marine field. For booking, please follow this link: MMO & PAM Training Courses<https://www.osc.co.uk/training/>. Course attendees also receive a discount code for Opticron binoculars and tripods. For those of you qualified already, please register on our contractors portal: Ocean Science Consulting Limited<https://contractors.osc.co.uk/> and for those who are thinking of qualifying, our contractors portal is a great opportunity to get work with us in many cases straight away and all over the world! We look forward to hearing from you. OSC Admin Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk W: www.ocean-science-consulting.gr W: www.osc-nz.co.nz Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR. Scotland, UK MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the Book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com

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New publication: Fine-scale spatiotemporal predator-prey interactions in an Antarctic fur seal colony
by Ane Liv Berthelsen 16 Jun '26

16 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to share our latest research, published in Royal Society Open Science, with you. Berthelsen, A.L., Bartl, J., Winterl, A., Fox-Clarke, C., Forcada, J., Nagel, R., et al. (2026). Fine-scale spatiotemporal predator-prey interactions in an Antarctic fur seal colony. R. Soc. open sci., 250931 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.250931 Abstract: Density is a major determinant of population dynamics, with high densities exacerbating intraspecific competition and disease transmission while low densities increase predation risk. To investigate spatiotemporal density patterns and predator–prey interactions in a breeding colony of Antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus gazella), we deployed an autonomous camera capturing minute-by-minute, high-resolution images throughout a breeding season. Using a YOLO-based neural network, we identified adult males, females and pups, as well as three avian predator–scavengers: giant petrels (Macronectes spp.), brown skuas (Stercorarius antarcticus) and snowy sheathbills (Chionis alba). Analysis of 4.1 million automated detections from over 10 000 high-quality images revealed spatiotemporal abundance patterns corresponding with the known breeding and foraging behaviours of these species. Strong temporal associations emerged between the abundance of pups and two avian species, while fine-scale spatial analyses showed that pups grouped together with other pups and adult females but avoided avian predators and territorial males. Notably, proximity to adult fur seals of both sexes reduced pup predation risk, defined as the distance between the pup and the nearest bird, whereas proximity to other pups did not. Overall, this study provides a framework for quantifying density-dependent interactions in wild populations and emphasizes the value of remote observation in ecological research. Cheers, Ane Liv Berthelsen (she/her), PhD Disclaimer: Work/life balance looks different to everyone, so please respond at a time that is convenient to you. Mail: ane_liv.berthelsen(a)uni-bielefeld.de Room: VHF-204a Bielefeld University Department of Evolutionary Population Genetics 33501 Bielefeld Germany

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Upcoming MMO and PAM Training in Victoria, BC
by Emily Welsh 16 Jun '26

16 Jun '26

Edgewise Environmental is offering Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operator and Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) courses, with in-person at-sea practicals taking place in Victoria, BC. All course theory is delivered online in a semi-asynchronous format. See below for dates and information: *Marine Mammal Observer (MMO)* Online Theory: August 11 - September 8 In-person Practical: September 14, 2026 *Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operator* Online Theory: August 13 - September 3 In-person Practical: September 9 & 10, 2026 Courses can be taken simultaneously and a discount is applied when registering for multiple courses. Click here <https://8ec4cf1c.streak-link.com/C7NS4lVBgUz89IGvaAzJUkhP/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> for more information or email info(a)edgewiseenvironmental.com. Cheers, Emily Welsh Social Media & Marketing Coordinator Edgewise Environmental Ltd. (709) 317-0366 St. John’s, NL, Canada www.edgewiseenvironmental.com [image: Facebook icon] <https://8ec4cf1c.streak-link.com/C7NS4lVOzgoV-KEsWQAfpnWx/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> [image: LinkedIn icon] <https://8ec4cf1c.streak-link.com/C7NS4sEmpujb3D0U9ggMApSs/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> [image: Instagram icon] <https://8ec4cf1c.streak-link.com/C7NS4ldUVCN08TPPmwZIfDCe/https%3A%2F%2Fins…> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The contents of this email message and any attachments are intended solely for the addressee(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information and may be legally protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient of this message or their agent, or if this message has been addressed to you in error, please immediately alert the sender by reply email and then delete this message and any attachments. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any use, dissemination, copying, or storage of this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited. ᐧ

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