- MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publications week 48
by Jan Herrmann 07 Dec '06

07 Dec '06

Dear all, here are some new publications of week 48 / 2006, which haven't been announced on MARMAM earlier AFAIK. By clicking the following link you are guided to a website, where the following references are linked to their according journal homepages. There you can find abstracts and contact information: http://www.mmbib.com/news.html Please do not contact MARMAM, the MARMAM editors or me for reprints. Thank you. Thanks to all of you who sent in reprints to be included in the weekly announcements. Kindest Regards, Jan Herrmann CETACEA Bejder, L. et al. (2006): Decline in Relative Abundance of Bottlenose Dolphins Exposed to Long-Term Disturbance. Conservation Biology 20(6): 1791-1798. Borrell, A. and A. Aguilar (2007): Organochlorine concentrations declined during 1987-2002 in western Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins, a coastal top predator. Chemosphere 66(2): 347-352. Fitzgerald, E.M.G. (2006): A bizarre new toothed mysticete (Cetacea) from Australia and the early evolution of baleen whales. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London Series B-Biological Sciences 273(1604): 2955-2963. Nousek, A.E. et al. (2006): The influence of social affiliation on individual vocal signatures of northern resident killer whales (Orcinus orca). Biology Letters 2(4): 481-484. Williams, R. and D. Lusseau (2006): A killer whale social network is vulnerable to targeted removals. Biology Letters 2(4): 497-500. Halsey, L.G., T.M. Blackburn, and P.J. Butler (2006): A comparative analysis of the diving behaviour of birds and mammals. Functional Ecology 20(5): 889-899. Mortola, J.P. and M.-J. Limoges (2006): Resting breathing frequency in aquatic mammals: A comparative analysis with terrestrial species. Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology 154(3): 500-514. Ray, G.C. (2006): Book Reviews. Future Course for Marine Mammal Conservation Research? Conservation Biology 20(6): 1823-1825. PINNIPEDIA Campagna, C. et al. (2006): Southern elephant seal trajectories, fronts and eddies in the Brazil/Malvinas Confluence. Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers 53(12): 1907-1924. Genty, E. and J.-J. Roeder (2006): Self-control: why should sea lions, Zalophus californianus, perform better than primates? Animal Behaviour 72(6): 1241-1247. Kastelein, R.A. et al. (2006): Deterring effects of 8-45kHz tone pulses on harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) in a large pool. Marine Environmental Research 62(5): 356-373. Sharp, J.A. et al. (2006): Species-specific cell-matrix interactions are essential for differentiation of alveoli like structures and milk gene expression in primary mammary cells of the Cape fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus). Matrix Biology 25(7): 430-442. Van Parijs, S.M. and C.W. Clark (2006): Long-term mating tactics in an aquatic-mating pinniped, the bearded seal, Erignathus barbatus. Animal Behaviour 72(6): 1269-1277. Pozio, E. and K.D. Murrell (2006): Systematics and epidemiology of trichinella. Advances in Parasitology 63(): 367-439. OTHER MARINE MAMMALS -- --> jan.herrmann -at - cetacea.de

1 0

New paper on the whaling issue
by Phillip Clapham 06 Dec '06

06 Dec '06

The following paper was just published online and will be available in print at a later date: Clapham, P., Childerhouse, S., Gales, N., Rojas, L., Tillman, M. & Brownell, B. 2006. The whaling issue: Conservation, confusion and casuistry. Marine Policy doi:10.1016/j.marpol.2006.09.004 ABSTRACT Morishita�s �multiple analysis� of the whaling issue [1] is essentially a restatement of the Government of Japan�s whaling policy which confuses the issue through selective use of data, unsubstantiated facts and the vilification of opposing perspectives. Here, we deconstruct the major problems with Morishita�s article and provide an alternative view of the whaling dispute. For many people in this debate, the issue is not that some whales are not abundant, but that the whaling industry cannot be trusted to regulate itself or to honestly assess the status of potentially exploitable populations. This suspicion has its origin in Japan�s poor use of science, its often implausible stock assessments, its insistence that culling is an appropriate way to manage marine mammal populations, and its relatively recent falsification of whaling and fisheries catch data combined with a refusal to accept true transparency in catch and market monitoring. Japanese policy on whaling cannot be viewed in isolation, but is part of a larger framework involving a perceived right to secure unlimited access to global marine resources. Whaling is inextricably tied to the international fisheries agreements on which Japan is strongly dependent; thus, concessions made at the IWC would have potentially serious ramifications in other fora. Reprints are available; please email me at phillip.clapham(a)noaa.gov Phil Clapham -- Phillip J. Clapham, Ph.D. Alaska Fisheries Science Center National Marine Mammal Laboratory 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 4 Seattle, WA 98115 tel (206) 526-4037 fax (206) 526-6615 email: phillip.clapham(a)noaa.gov

1 0

Job Announcement
by Jenelle Gilding 06 Dec '06

06 Dec '06

The Alaska SeaLife Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to marine research, rehabilitation and public education is seeking applications for the following: Laboratory Technician - Veterinary Services This position is responsible for providing clinical laboratory support to the Center's veterinary staff. Duties: Oversees the day-to-day functioning of the laboratory, quality control program, and providing laboratory results including but not limited to: hematology, serum chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis, fecal parasite exams, and water coliform tests. Requirements: One year minimum clinical laboratory experience. Associate's degree in clinical laboratory sciences preferred. Must be able to work weekends and on-call. This is a year-round, full-time position with a great benefits package. Apply by: Open until filled Start date: ASAP Send resume, references & application (downloadable at www.alaskasealife.org) to Human Resources, Alaska SeaLife Center, P O Box 1329, Seward, AK 99664-1329 or email HR(a)alaskasealife.org www.alaskasealife.org The ASLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

1 0

Summer Marine Mammals Course
by Tara M. Cox 06 Dec '06

06 Dec '06

Please direct inquiries to mL_admissions(a)nicholas.duke.edu (Tel: 252.504.7502). ----------------------------------------- Duke University Marine Lab 2007 Summer Course: Marine Mammals Dates: Summer Term II: 9 July - 10 August 2007 Course limit: 15 students (undergraduates, graduate students, professionals) Application deadline (if applying for Global Fellowship): 15 February 2007 Application deadline (if applying for Tuition Scholarship): 1 April 2007 Application deadline (no funding support): 10 June 2007 The Duke University Marine Laboratory invites applications to its summer field course on the biology of marine mammals. Topics covered include the ecology, behavior, management and conservation of marine mammals, with emphasis on field study of the local population of bottlenose dolphins. This is a field and laboratory-intensive course designed to provide first-hand experience with research techniques such as photo-identification and mark-recapture analysis, sampling prey distribution and abundance, behavioral sampling techniques, acoustic recording and analysis, and dissection techniques. As part of Summer Term's II Integrated Marine Conservation Program, a core course BIO 109/ENV 209 (Conservation Biology and Policy) may be taken with Marine Mammals. Students are encouraged (but not required) to take both courses. Approximately ten Global Fellowships in Marine Conservation will be awarded on a competitive basis to international students, especially those from developing countries, and will fully cover travel expenses, room and board, and tuition for both BIO 109/ENV 209 Conservation Biology and Policy plus one elective course subject to availability. Electives include: Biology and Conservation of Sea Turtles; Marine Mammals; Marine Ecology; Marine Invertebrate Zoology; Marine Policy; and Independent Research. Experience the beautiful North Carolina coast! Join students from all over the world in participating in this unique summer session experience. Enrollment is limited, apply early! For more information: mL_admissions(a)nicholas.duke.edu (Tel: 252.504.7502). _www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/admissions/forms.html <http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/admissions/forms.html>http://www.env.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/scholarship.html http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/summer2.html <http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/summer2.html>_

1 0

MSc physiology opportunity
by David Rosen 04 Dec '06

04 Dec '06

M.Sc Position – Sea lion physiology and bioenergetics Marine Mammal Research Unit, University of British Columbia. Seeking candidates for a M.Sc. position involving bioenergetics and physiology of Otariids. The research project involves studying aspects of metabolism, heart rate, and diving physiology in a group of captive Steller sea lions. We are looking for a student with appropriate academic and technical qualifications. Prior work with animals (not necessarily marine mammals) is also sought. This is a 2-year position, starting in September 2007, during which time the candidate will be expected to complete the required course work, research, and thesis work. The position provides personal financial support exempt from TA duties. However, students bringing additional (external) funding will be viewed favourably. Selected candidates will be asked to apply to the Dept of Zoology at the University of British Columbia. They will be supervised in their studies by Drs. David Rosen and Andrew Trites at the Marine Mammal Research Unit, University of British Columbia. Details of the types of research previously undertaken can be found at www.marinemammal.org/research/research.php. The formal application deadline for September 2007 admission to UBC is February 1 2007 (International), March 1 2007 (Canadian). For further details of the application process please see www.zoology.ubc.ca/zoology/grad/HowTo.html. Inquiries (including c.v.’s and letters of interest should be directed to Dr. David Rosen at rosen(a)zoology.ubc.ca

1 0

job announcement- Director of Animal Husbandry- Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration
by James Jordan 04 Dec '06

04 Dec '06

Job Announcement POSITION TITLE: Director of Animal Husbandry DEPARTMENT: Mammals and Birds REPORTING TO: Senior Vice President of Research and Zoological Operations LOCATION: Mystic, CT THE COMPANY: Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit institution based in Mystic, CT. The Foundation's mission is to inspire people everywhere to care about and protect our oceans by exploring and sharing their biological, ecological and cultural treasures. With a primary focus on research and education, the aquarium has a large collection of aquatic animals supported by a team of highly dedicated marine animal research experts. Prominent exhibits include the Alaskan Coast, a one-acre outdoor beluga whale display, and the Hidden Amazon, a lush exhibit exploring the rainforest ecosystem. The aquarium also has a diverse slate of age-specific educational programs and tours. Mystic Aquarium is also the home of the Institute for Exploration (IFE) and is the only aquarium in the world with exhibits based on work done by Robert Ballard and his deep-ocean exploration team. IFE has assembled some of the finest talent in oceanographic and deep-sea archeological research, which develops advanced deep-sea vehicle systems to conduct research and educates students and the general public about its work. The organization has an annual budget of approximately $14M and more than 225 employees. Major sources of revenue include federal, state and private grants, gate receipts and other earned income sources. SCOPE AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Oversee and direct the day-to-day management of collection animals and husbandry personnel. Assist with the development of the zoological collection master plan and the implementation of both short-term plans and long-range collection plans in support of exhibition, education and conservation purposes. Develop, administer and monitor overall husbandry budget and assist with prioritizing implementation of significant capital expenditures. Specific Responsibilities: * Plan, develop and establish policies and objectives for Husbandry. * Maintain working knowledge of life support systems and water quality parameters and oversee the quality of the physical environment in which the animals are maintained. Ultimately responsible for the well being of the animals under our care and should be able to interact with and converse about issues relevant to these areas. * Work with the Curatorial staff to develop plans for the improvement of existing facilities and plans for future exhibits in collaboration with Facility Operations and Exhibit Design personnel. * Assist with development of species strategy and exhibit themes. * Assist with the development and implementation of an animal collection plan. * Oversee the stranding program. * Assure compliance with all international, federal and local laws. This includes maintaining permits, regular and reporting inspection compliance, inter-facility exchanges and various interactions with government agencies, including (but not limited to) the USDA, NMFS, US Fish & Wildlife, DFO, etc. * Support the goals and objectives of professional organizations (AZA, IMATA, IAAAM, etc.) as they relate to the Aquarium and support staff participation in these organizations. Respond to and cooperate with requests for information or initiatives appropriate to our facility as related to these professional organizations. * In the absence of or as directed by the Sr. Vice President of Research and Zoological Operations, publicly represent the organization and its programs, both verbally and in written form, particularly regarding marine mammal issues. This includes overseeing the writing and presentation of marine mammal presentations and serving as an aquarium spokesperson for high-profile marine mammal issues in the media and elsewhere. * Assists with the coordination of research on collection and stranded animals and procedures involving animal care as well as incorporation of research and conservation messages into exhibits. * Ensure quality of exhibits including graphics, educational components and interpretation. * Serve on the IACUC Committee. * Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisor. EXPERIENCE / SKILLS REQUIRED: * Master's degree or equivalent in the Biological Sciences with a minimum of 10 years experience in a related field. * Relevant experience should include: compliance with the animal collection regulations and accreditation standards; daily and long term animal care; exhibition and collection planning, specimen acquisitions and de-acquisitions. * Has demonstrated advanced working knowledge of the husbandry and exhibit design (including educational components) appropriate for captive marine mammals, birds, fishes and invertebrates and their life support systems. * Must possess the ability to lead a husbandry program and interact collaboratively with other departments while applying experience and creativity in exhibit design. * Must have experience with budget development and personnel management. * Must possess strong leadership skills. The Mystic Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer. CONTACT INFORMATION: Please address all nominations and applications to: Sig Ginsburg, Executive Vice President c/o James Jordan DHR International 973-792-1710, ext. 18 jjordan(a)dhrinternational.com www.dhrinternational.com <http://www.dhrinternational.com/> www.dhrnonprofit.com <http://www.dhrnonprofit.com/> James Jordan DHR International One Newark Center Newark, NJ 07102 973-792-1710 x 18 jjordan(a)dhrinternational.com <mailto:jjordan@dhrinternational.com> www.dhrinternational.com <http://www.dhrinternational.com> DHR International, established in 1989, is the fastest growing and most innovative retained executive search firm of the nation's "Top 5." With over 40 offices worldwide, DHR Consultants recruit leaders in all industries and functions including, but not limited to: Board Services, Diversity, Education, Industrial, Healthcare and Life Sciences, Retail/Consumer, Financial Services, Technology, Nonprofit, Media and Entertainment

1 0

Job Announcement- Curator, Marine Mammals and Birds- Mystic Aquarium
by James Jordan 04 Dec '06

04 Dec '06

Job Announcement POSITION TITLE: Curator, Marine Mammals and Birds REPORTING TO: Vice President of Zoological Operations LOCATION: Mystic, CT THE COMPANY: Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit institution based in Mystic, CT. The Foundation's mission is to inspire people everywhere to care about and protect our oceans by exploring and sharing their biological, ecological and cultural treasures. With a primary focus on research and education, the aquarium has a large collection of aquatic animals supported by a team of highly dedicated marine animal research experts. Prominent exhibits include the Alaskan Coast, a one-acre outdoor beluga whale display, and the Hidden Amazon, a lush exhibit exploring the rainforest ecosystem. The aquarium also has a diverse slate of age-specific educational programs and tours. Mystic Aquarium is also the home of the Institute for Exploration (IFE) and is the only aquarium in the world with exhibits based on work done by Robert Ballard and his deep-ocean exploration team. IFE has assembled some of the finest talent in oceanographic and deep-sea archeological research, which develops advanced deep-sea vehicle systems to conduct research and educates students and the general public about its work. The organization has an annual budget of approximately $14M and more than 225 employees. Major sources of revenue include federal, state and private grants, gate receipts and other earned income sources. SCOPE AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The Curator, Marine Mammals & Birds directs the departmental husbandry operations including animal acquisition and care, exhibitry, animal training and public presentations, departmental administration (budgeting, departmental and institutional planning, personnel management, interdepartmental planning, and communication). The Curator assists in coordinating response efforts to stranded animals and facilitates research endeavors involving the animal collection. This position oversees a department of approximately 25 full- and part-time employees and a budget of $1.4 million. Specific responsibilities include: * Develop and implement operational and collection management procedures; * Develop and implement animal husbandry and training procedures; * Work closely with husbandry, research, veterinary, exhibitry, life support and water quality personnel to safely showcase the living collections at the highest level possible; * Maintain compliance with state and federal regulatory agencies governing the maintenance of the facilities and collections; * Continuously review the status of collections and actively participate in the development of long-range plans; * Ensure all safety and security measures are followed, providing a safe and productive work environment for all employees; * Prepare and manage departmental budgets, ensuring the use of effective and responsible fiscal practices; * Serve as an active member of the aquarium management and IACUC committees; * Serve as an effective representative of the Aquarium at meetings and professional organizations; and * Perform all other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Zoological Operations. EXPERIENCE / SKILLS REQUIRED: The ideal candidate will have a minimum of ten years of successful experience in marine animal husbandry and management with an emphasis on marine mammals. This experience should also include three to five years of demonstrated success in a curatorial or equivalent position. The candidate will have a commitment to the highest degree of integrity and professionalism in his/her personal work effort and in what he/she expects of those associated with the department. Other desired skills and characteristics include: * Ability to effectively lead and direct staff as ambassadors of the Marine Mammals & Birds collection through education and research activities; * Outstanding management, organizational and planning skills and an orientation to detail, including budget control; * A collaborative leadership style, having the ability to foster communication and teamwork among a diverse team of professionals; * Excellent written and verbal communication skills that are effective with a range of audiences including internal staff and external constituents; and * Commitment to the Sea Research Foundation mission; EDUCATION: A bachelor's degree in biology, marine science or related field is required; an advance degree is desired. COMPENSATION This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package. CONTACT Interested parties should send a C.V. to: Sig Ginsburg Executive Vice President Nonprofit Practice DHR International c/o James Jordan jjordan(a)dhrinternational.com The Mystic Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer. James Jordan DHR International One Newark Center Newark, NJ 07102 973-792-1710 x 18 jjordan(a)dhrinternational.com <mailto:jjordan@dhrinternational.com> www.dhrinternational.com <http://www.dhrinternational.com> DHR International, established in 1989, is the fastest growing and most innovative retained executive search firm of the nation's "Top 5." With over 40 offices worldwide, DHR Consultants recruit leaders in all industries and functions including, but not limited to: Board Services, Diversity, Education, Industrial, Healthcare and Life Sciences, Retail/Consumer, Financial Services, Technology, Nonprofit, Media and Entertainment

1 0

New publications week 47
by Jan Herrmann 03 Dec '06

03 Dec '06

Dear all, here are some new publications of week 47 / 2006, which haven't been announced on MARMAM earlier AFAIK. By clicking the following link you are guided to a website, where the following references are linked to their according journal homepages. There you can find abstracts and contact information: http://www.mmbib.com/news.html Please do not contact MARMAM, the MARMAM editors or me for reprints. Thank you. Thanks to all of you who sent in reprints to be included in the weekly announcements. Kindest Regards, Jan Herrmann CETACEA Beck, R.M.D. et al. (2006): A higher-level MRP supertree of placental mammals. BMC Evolutionary Biology 6(): 93. Frasier, T.R. et al. (2006): Characterization of tetranucleotide microsatellite loci and development and validation of multiplex reactions for the study of right whale species (genus Eubalaena). Molecular Ecology Notes 6(4): 1025-1029. Johnson, M. et al. (2006): Foraging Blainville's beaked whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) produce distinct click types matched to different phases of echolocation. Journal of Experimental Biology 209(24): 5038-5050. Ma, H. et al. (2006): Two New Species of Symbiotic Ciliates from the Respiratory Tract of Cetaceans with Establishment of the New Genus Planilamina n. gen. (Dysteriida, Kyaroikeidae). The Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology 53(6): 407-419. Martínez-Agüero, M., S. Flores-Ramírez, and M. Ruiz-García (2006): First report of major histocompatibility complex class II loci from the Amazon pink river dolphin (genus Inia). Genetics and Molecular Research 5(3): 421-431. Woodside, J.M. et al. (2006): Gouge marks on deep-sea mud volcanoes in the eastern Mediterranean: Caused by Cuvier's beaked whales? Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers 53(11): 1762-1771. Zerbini, A.N. et al. (2006): Abundance, trends and distribution of baleen whales off Western Alaska and the central Aleutian Islands. Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers 53(11): 1772-1790. PINNIPEDIA Swanson, B.J. et al. (2006): Shed skin as a source of DNA for genotyping seals. Molecular Ecology Notes 6(4): 1006-1009. Veinott, G. and B. Sjare (2006): Mercury, Cadmium, Selenium, and Seven Other Elements in the Muscle, Renal, and Hepatic Tissue of Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina) from Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 77(4): 597-607. Zeppelin, T.K. and R.R. Ream (2006): Foraging habitats based on the diet of female northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) on the Pribilof Islands, Alaska. Journal of Zoology 270(4): 565-576. OTHER MARINE MAMMALS Renner, M.J. and A.L. Kelly (2006): Behavioral Decisions for Managing Social Distance and Aggression in Captive Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus). Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science 9(3): 233-239. -- --> jan.herrmann -at - cetacea.de

1 0

Oceanic Cetaceans of the Solomon Islands
by Benjamin Kahn 03 Dec '06

03 Dec '06

Dear Marmamers, The Solomon Islands Marine Assessment Report has just been released. It includes a comprehensive chapter on cetaceans in the Solomon Islands, including a field assessment and literature review of the traditional dolphin hunting village of Fanalei). The abstract is provided below. The full report is a fairly large document as the expedition's activities covered a suite of coral reef and marine resource assessments. It's possible to download just the cetacean chapter (as well as other sections) from this link: Kahn, B. 2006. Oceanic Cetaceans and Associated Habitats in the Western Solomon Islands. In: Green, A., P. Lokani, W. Atu, P. Ramohia, P. Thomas and J. Almany (eds.) 2006. Solomon Islands Marine Assessment: Technical Report of Marine Survey - May 13 to June 17, 2004. The Nature Conservancy - Pacific Island Countries Report No. 1/06. pp 445-515. http://conserveonline.org/workspaces/pacific.island.countries.publications/… Regards, Benjamin Kahn. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Benjamin Kahn Director APEX Environmental Asia-Pacific Oceanic Cetacean Program Indonesia office: Suite 102 Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 379 Sanur - 80228, Bali INDONESIA Ph: +62 - (0)361 - 287020 Fax: +62 - (0)361 - 270890 Australia office: PO Box 59 Clifton Beach - Cairns 4879 Queensland AUSTRALIA Tel: +61 - (0)7- 4059 0270 Fax:+61 - (0)7- 4059 0849 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Solomon Islands Marine Assessment - Oceanic Cetaceans and Associated Habitats was conducted from 10 May to 16 June 2004. Because of the broad and multi-faceted nature of the Solomon Island Marine Assessment's activities and goals, this program was not designed as a dedicated cetacean survey. As such the Solomon Island Marine Assessment could not address certain species- or habitat-specific conservation and management issues for cetaceans - such as the estimation of relative abundances (which can only be estimated through more structured and periodic surveys). Instead, this program was structured as a Rapid Ecological Assessment on Solomon Islands' oceanic cetaceans and associated habitats (the SI Cetacean REA) and included the following activities: 1.. To conduct a visual and acoustic survey on Solomon Islands' whale and dolphin species diversity, distribution, ranking of total individual count and their associated habitats (near shore, yet deep-water); 2.. To canvass community knowledge on local cetacean sighting patterns, strandings and cetaceans' role in cultural heritage and folklore; 3.. To conduct an on-board capacity building program on cetaceans for local scientists and marine conservationists; 4.. To assist with the identification of migratory corridors of national and regional importance, as well as other critical cetacean habitats; 5.. To strengthen national conservation policies for large cetaceans and marine bio-diversity in general; 6.. To evaluate the potential for sustainable and responsible (sperm) whale and dolphin watch activities. The SI Cetacean REA was conducted during 36 survey days in the central and western provinces of the Solomon Islands and included 160.0 hours of visual survey time, covering 1228.1 nautical miles. Cetaceans were sighted on 52 separate encounters in which 815 animals were counted, belonging to 10 species. The species sighted include (ranked by sighting frequency): Spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris); Pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata); Common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus); and single sightings for the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus); Orca or killer whale (Orcinus orca); Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus); Rough-toothed dolphin (Steno bredanensis); Short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus); Mesoplodon beaked whale (Mesoplodon sp.); Rorqual baleen whale (Balaenoptera sp. - either the common Bryde's or Sei whale; B. brydei or B. borealis respectively). Acoustic surveys included 49 offshore listening stations. In total, cetacean presence was acoustically detected on 51% of all listening stations. Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) were positively identified acoustically, bringing the total of species for the SI Cetacean REA to 11. Acoustic contacts were dominated by oceanic dolphins, followed by sperm whales. Both sighting frequencies and counts of individuals were dominated (>95%) by the same 3 species: spinner dolphins, common bottlenose dolphins and spotted dolphins. Sighting and acoustic results were corrected for survey effort and an initial comparison with similar REAs in other regions was made. There were unfavourable sighting conditions during a substantial number of days. These were spread evenly over all SI Cetacean REA Legs. The SI Cetacean REA visual and acoustic results strongly indicate a relatively low cetacean species diversity and relative low abundance throughout most of the western Solomon Islands' provinces, at least during the SI Cetacean REA period. In several areas, however, spinner and spotted dolphins were locally abundant. This outcome needs to be further investigated, as - when confirmed by additional dedicated cetacean surveys - it has significance for management of cetacean use and fisheries interactions. Issues highly relevant to the Solomon Islands are the traditional dolphin drives, the licensed live dolphin captures for tourism ventures (for local 'swim with the dolphins' programs and trade/international export), and possibly the large-scale tuna purse-seine tuna fisheries in Solomon Islands' waters. Throughout the survey, local knowledge on cetaceans proved very valuable. Many coastal communities, such as the Shortlands and Savo Island, have important spinner dolphin resting areas at their local reef lagoons. These preferred dolphin habitats seem stable for exceptional long periods and often have been known to villagers for over five generations. Responsible, well regulated, wild cetacean watching may be feasible in these locations (and presumably in many more similar areas and communities not visited by the Marine Assessment. Traditional dolphin hunting villages of Fanalei and Bita 'Ama were also visited. In Fanalei, elders explained that the traditional dolphin drive is practiced with strong cultural heritage and minimal modernisation in fishery methods. Essentially, dolphins are driven from the ocean into the local reef lagoon by creating an "acoustic net" through strategic placement of canoes around the pod and well-timed banging of rocks underwater. The aftermath of a recent capture of spotted dolphins for a live-display facility did cause significant disturbance amongst the village and this modern influence may not be easily integrated within an otherwise largely traditional community. Although the traditional dolphin drives in Fanalei are largely non-modernized, several aspects raise serious concerns. The long-term disappearance of the valued melonheaded whales (robo au) in local waters, the increased effort due to population growth and new market forces clearly indicate that depletion of SI marine mammal resources can and does happen. Hence, additional dedicated cetacean surveys need to be conducted by the SI Government to determine the sustainability of the traditional dolphin drives, and ultimately, to ensure the preservation of the unique cultural heritage of the SI. The Bita' Ama community (a second village with a history of traditional dolphin drives) has not hunted dolphins for numerous years. All dolphin hunting canoes - which are different in wood type and design from fishing canoes - are in a state of deterioration. Preparations are being made by elders to build new canoes and resume traditional dolphin hunting in the northern Indispensable Strait within 2 years. Important cetacean habitats that have been identified are reef lagoons, especially for spinner dolphins, and the northern Indispensable Strait region, where, according to community knowledge, large baleen whales are common seasonally. After detailed interviews with elders from Bita 'Ama it seems that the most likely species involved are blue whales. Other anecdotal sighting information also strongly indicates that blue whales are present in these waters. If confirmed, the Indispensable Strait region, as well as several other narrow yet deep island passages in the western Solomon Seas, are likely to function as marine migratory corridors for large cetaceans. Such corridors (also called migratory bottlenecks) are often used by multiple species of large migratory marine vertebrates - including cetaceans, marine turtles, sharks, billfish and tuna - and have already been recognised to be of regional conservation importance in several other nations of the Indo-Pacific. Marine corridor conservation can be effectively achieved via habitat-based management frameworks including multi-use Marine Protected Areas. Key issues for corridor conservation in the Indo-Pacific include fisheries interactions; especially gill and/or drift netting practices in or near corridors which may effectively cordon off a passage. Because of the seasonal migrations of whales, dolphins and other migratory marine life, even short periods of intensive fishing with gillnets in the vicinity of corridors can result in very significant by-catch and entanglement rates. Overall, management measures may vary substantially between corridor sites and ideally are incorporated within long-term management plans. On several occasions during the SI Marine Assessment specific reef lagoon areas were identified where spinner dolphins were known to 'rest'. These sites were often known by local communities for many generations, indicating long-term site fidelity. In these locations community-based marine management approaches, in collaboration with provincial and national government agencies, may be an effective management framework to ensure these important dolphin habitats are conserved, and where feasible, regulate any economic opportunities such as local dolphin watching activities. At the Arnavon Islands Marine Protected Area, the complete skeleton of a previously stranded false killer whale, Pseudorca crassidens, was located on a remote beach. With help of the Conservation Officers, the bones and skull were transported to the Arnavon research station. The 6m skeleton was assembled into an educational display at the station's entrance. Furthermore, the Arnavons central location in the Manning Strait (one of the major marine corridors of the Solomon Islands), in combination with on-going marine conservation projects and trained staff which are permanently on-site, mean that conservation activities (i.e. monitoring) on whales and other large migratory marine life could be implemented relatively cost-effectively. The Gavutu live-capture dolphin facility was visited, and included a detailed tour and inspection. The main business of the facility is a local 'swim-with-dolphin tourism' venture and international export of dolphins. The recommendations of a recent IUCN Species Survival Commission report on the facility and dolphin trade were brought forward during discussions with staff. In addition, an indirect - and unintended - effect of the facility may be over-exploitation of local fish stocks due to high daily food requirements for the dolphins, as well as price incentives to local fishermen. Key recommendations focus on additional cetacean surveys, ecological research, training and policy. In particular, SI would benefit from additional cetacean surveys to estimate relative abundance for cetacean species of interest and to further identify and confirm high priority areas for conservation. In order to address the knowledge gap on SI cetaceans, it is vital to improve the local expertise and build capacity for long-term cetacean survey and ecological research programs in the Solomon Seas. A national cetacean workshop with field-oriented training components has been agreed upon by Marine Assessment stakeholders as an effective tool to address this. Areas of interest for possible follow-up cetacean training, survey and research activities include: The Ghizo/New Georgia Group, Malaita, Indispensable Strait, Florida Islands, Fauro (Shortlands), and the St. Cruz Islands - the latter being the vast eastern-most province of the SI. St. Cruz province has exceptional oceanic habitat diversity and consistent anecdotal sightings of large whales (including sperm whales and orcas). Due to logistical constraints St. Cruz was not part of the area of interest for the Solomon Islands Marine Assessment. Lastly, SI would benefit from becoming a signature state of the Convention of International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES). CITES is an internationally recognized mechanism to sustainably manage wildlife trade in endangered species, including cetaceans. By joining CITES the Solomon Islands would improve CITES coverage and effectiveness and in doing so would be welcomed by the wider international community. In addition, Solomon Islands export a considerable quantity of fauna. While most SI species as reported by CITES may sustain such a trade, there are several cases where CITES has recommended a ban on imports of several species from the Solomon Islands. By not being a CITES member, the Solomon Islands has no mechanism to officially oppose such trade restrictions. The Solomon Islands Marine Assessment provided a good basis for these recommendations. In addition to the significant collection of cetacean data, it increased awareness and active participation amongst key government and non-government stakeholders, and assisted with the development of local capacity that may be involved in future projects on Solomon Islands' diverse whale and dolphin species and habitats.

1 0

New Publication: Bottlenose dolphin predation on a marine fin fish farm
by Bruno Diaz 03 Dec '06

03 Dec '06

Dear Marmam subscribers, Apologies in advance, to those of you on both listserves who will receive cross-postings. I am pleased to announce the publication of the following article in Aquatic Mammals 32 (3) (abstract bellow): Díaz López, B., 2006. Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Predation on a Marine Fin Fish Farm: Some Underwater Observations. Aquatic Mammals 32 (3), 305 - 310, DOI 10.1578/AM.32.3.2006.305 Abstract This paper reports on the results of underwater observations of bottlenose dolphin feeding behaviour in a marine fin fish farm on the Sardinian coast in Italy from 2000 to 2005. During the study period, 178 underwater encounters were noted during 79 sightings of bottlenose dolphins at a fish farm. Total time spent underwater in the presence of dolphins was 284 min, with a mean encounter duration of 1.6 ± 1.3 min. Bottlenose dolphins were primarily observed hunting both schooling and solitary prey around the fish farm cages, using seven cooperative and individual feeding strategies throughout the water column. The underwater observations suggest that the use of different feeding strategies is consistent with the hypothesis that bottlenose dolphins apply common decision rules in relation to prey availability, resulting in the use of different foraging techniques. The observed frequency of the feeding strategies employed by dolphins preying directly on farmed fish could be worrisome for aquaculture. Key Words: Tursiops truncatus, bottlenose dolphin, aquaculture, behaviour, predation, marine fin fish farm, Mediterranean Sea A pdf file is available and can be sent on request (bruno(a)thebdri.com) the article will be available shortly from the BDRI's website www.thebdri.com This paper is one in a series of studies that have been published over the past years which show the influence of a marine fin fish farm in bottlenose dolphins presence and feeding behaviour. Best wishes, Bruno Díaz López Zoologist & Chief Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute - BDRI V.Diaz 4, Golfo Aranci 07020 Italy www.thebdri.com bruno(a)thebdri.com Tel: 00 39 346 0815414 --------------------------------- Cheap Talk? Check out Yahoo! Messenger's low PC-to-Phone call rates. --------------------------------- Have a burning question? Go to Yahoo! Answers and get answers from real people who know.

1 0