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New publication: Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a complementary monitoring tool in cetacean visual surveys: from broad to fine-scale spatial analysis in open waters (Miguel Álvarez-González)
by Miguel Álvarez 14 Apr '26

14 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-authors and myself, I am pleased to share our new open-access publication in *Marine Environmental Research*, led by the Marine Megafauna Research Group (MegaMAR) of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC): Álvarez-González, M., Saavedra, C., Rotllant, J., Pierce, G. J., Gutiérrez-Muñoz, P., Vázquez Bonales, J. A., & Suarez-Bregua, P. (2026). Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a complementary monitoring tool in cetacean visual surveys: from broad to fine-scale spatial analysis in open waters. *Marine Environmental Research*, 217, 107985 Access to the publication: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marenvres.2026.107985 You can also find a short summary of this work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXHmrkslGHP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=M… Abstract: Monitoring cetacean populations is essential for understanding the status of marine communities. In this regard, environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is an increasingly popular innovative and non-invasive genetic tool for marine biodiversity monitoring, particularly useful for assessing the populations of highly mobile species with a wide distribution range, such as cetaceans. In this study, we compared cetacean species detection and distribution patterns obtained through eDNA metabarcoding with the sighting records obtained during simultaneous traditional visual monitoring. A total of 258 seawater samples was analysed, collected at 129 sampling stations during the SCANS-IV survey carried out in oceanic waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. Nine cetacean species were identified by eDNA metabarcoding and ten by visual monitoring; three species were detected solely by eDNA, while four were exclusively detected by visual observation, demonstrating the complementarity of the two methods. The four most frequently sighted species were also the most frequently detected species in eDNA samples, showing similar detection frequencies and distribution patterns at broad and intermediate spatial scales. At a finer scale, however, species occurrence did not overlap between methods. Additionally, eDNA provided new insights into striped dolphin (*Stenella coeruleoalba*), which may be under-represented in traditional monitoring data. Overall, the results support the use of eDNA metabarcoding as a valuable complementary monitoring tool for assessing cetacean diversity and distribution, providing additional information on species presence throughout the study area. This is particularly relevant for species that are rarely recorded visually and for which there is insufficient information to design and implement appropriate management strategies. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding this work. Miguel Álvarez (miguel.alvarez(a)ieo.csic.es) Paula Suárez - corresponding author (paula.suarez(a)ieo.csic.es) Best regards, Miguel

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Fresh off the press: Publication on inferring internal organ contaminant burden in cetaceans
by von Hellfeld, Rebecca 14 Apr '26

14 Apr '26

Dear marmam community, With the unique (and tragic) occurrence of long-finned pilot whale mass stranding events, we have been given the rare opportunity to assess the potential use of skin as indicator for internal organ mercury burden in these animals. Removing the usual ecological and life-history variation that is inherent with single animal strandings, we were able to determine a relationship between the skin and liver mercury burden in a group of 54 pilot whales that stranded in 2023. I would greatly appreciate if this article could be shared further, and of course am more than happy to discuss the work in more detail if anyone is interested: https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70170 Best wishes, Rebecca von Hellfeld ________________________________ Dr Rebecca von Hellfeld Postdoctoral Researcher University of Aberdeen School of Biological Science Environmental Modelling Group . ":" ___:____ |"\/"| ,' `. \ / | O \___/ | ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ You may receive emails from me outside of core hours. Please do not feel any pressure to respond outside of your normal working pattern. The University of Aberdeen is a charity registered in Scotland, No SC013683. Tha Oilthigh Obar Dheathain na charthannas clàraichte ann an Alba, Àir. SC013683.

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Marine Mammal Internship 2026 – Southern Right Whale Research in Brazil
by Daniel Danilewicz 14 Apr '26

14 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, Want to work hands-on with southern right whales in the wild? We are now accepting applications for the Marine Mammal Research Exchange, an academic internship program hosted by the GEMARS–Yaqu Pacha Marine Mammal Conservation Hub — a center for collaborative research and capacity building in Latin America. The Hub integrates multiple research and conservation initiatives (including bycatch mitigation, community-based projects, and marine mammal monitoring programs). This specific call focuses on one of its flagship field programs: the long-term study of southern right whales (*Eubalaena australis*) in southern Brazil. This program is designed for advanced undergraduate students and recent graduates, offering direct involvement in data collection, analysis, and scientific research. *The experience* Interns will be embedded in the Farol das Baleias Project, contributing to ongoing research using: * Drone-based whale monitoring * Shore-based surveys * Photo-identification * Behavioral observations * Photogrammetry (growth and body condition) * Data processing and analysis *Periods & availability* We are offering two internship periods in 2026: * 1st July – 15 August (2 positions) * 1st August – 15 September (2 positions) *Location & logistics* * Southern Brazil (Torres, RS & Imbituba, SC) * Shared accommodation included (fully equipped house) * International research team environment *Fee* USD 175 per week, including: * Training * Accommodation Food, travel, and personal expenses are not included. *Who should apply* * Advanced undergraduate students * Recent graduates * Early-career researchers * Motivated individuals seeking hands-on experience in marine mammal science *How to apply* To receive application instructions, please contact: faroldasbaleias(a)gmail.com Subject: Internship 2026 – Farol das Baleias -- Dr. Daniel Danilewicz gemars.org.br Grupo de Estudos de Mamíferos Aquáticos do Rio Grande do Sul (GEMARS) Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC)

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PhD Opportunity: Structure/Function Perspectives on Mammal Encephalons (Deadline: May 19th)
by Jean-marie Graic 14 Apr '26

14 Apr '26

Dear MARMAMers I am currently recruiting a PhD candidate for a new position within the Veterinary Sciences program at the University of Padua, Italy The research project focuses on structure/function perspectives of the encephalon in terrestrial and marine mammals. The student will be trained primarily in histology, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Additionally, the role involves opportunistic brain extraction, MRI brain scan analysis, and opportunities to engage in broader anatomical research. Application Details: - Topic: Evolutionary perspectives on the encephalon (terrestrial and marine mammals). - Key Activities: Histology, IHC, Immunofluorescence, MRI analysis, Brain extraction. - Deadline: May 19th. - Full Call & Requirements: https://www.dottorato.veterinaria.unipd.it/evolutionary-perspectives-terres… Please review the link above for specific requirements and the application procedure. If you know any motivated students or researchers interested in this field, please forward this information to them. Best regards, *Jean-Marie Graïc, Dr. Vet. Med., Ph.D.* Associate Professor* - Veterinary Anatomy* University of Padua, Italy - Veterinary Medicine Tel : +39 049 827 2572 <https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1974-8356>ORCID 0000-0002-1974-8356 <https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1974-8356> *The hypothalamus - "Here in this well-concealed spot, almost to be covered with a thumbnail, lies the very main spring of primitive existence – vegetative, emotional, reproductive – on which with more or less success, man has come to superimpose a cortex of inhibitions.” Cushing (1932)*

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Florida Manatee Management Job Opportunity
by Sosa, Ana 13 Apr '26

13 Apr '26

Greetings, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking a Fisheries & Wildlife OPS Biological Scientist III to aid the agency’s Manatee Management Program. The Manatee Warm-Water Habitat Biologist position is a dynamic administrative and office-based role, focused on supporting the collaborative implementation of the Manatee Warm-water Habitat Action Plan. Primary duties will involve facilitating, organizing, and leading interagency and partner groups regarding warm-water habitat restoration, enhancement, and creation. Assisting with the creation, maintenance and quality control of shapefiles, layers and geodatabases, developing maps and data summaries using ArcGIS, GoogleEarth, MS Access and MS Excel for management purposes. Maintaining industrial partnerships by monitoring operations, contributing to updates/revisions of manatee protection plans. Contributing to the preparation of reports and presenting results through internal and external (peer-reviewed publications, professional and public meetings, etc.) outlets. Please follow this link to the job posting to learn more about this opportunity: OPS- F & W Biological Scientist III - 77905006 Job Details | State of Florida<https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/TALLAHASSEE-OPS-F-&-W-Biological-Scientist-I…> Posting Closing Date: 04/19/2026 Sincerely, Ana Sosa, M.P.A., B.S. Manatee Warm-water Habitat Coordinator, Biological Scientist IV Imperiled Species Management Section Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission<https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/manatee/> 1875 E. Orange Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32311 (850) 922-4330 Ana.Sosa(a)MyFWC.com

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New publication: Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) in San Francisco Bay experience high mortality and have limited affiliation to known foraging groups
by Josie Slaathaug 12 Apr '26

12 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our open-access publication in Frontiers, the results of a very collaborative study and the first publication detailing live gray whales in San Francisco Bay, available here: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.… Slaathaug JM, Lane RS, Keener W, Pe´rez A, Flannery M, Webber MA, Grimes A, Wilkin AM, O’Hern JE, Duignan PJ, Calambokidis J and Crocker DE (2026) Gray whales (*Eschrichtius robustus*) in San Francisco Bay experience high mortality and have limited affiliation to known foraging groups. Front. Mar. Sci. 13:1775666. doi: Abstract Terrestrial and marine species are exhibiting distributional shifts due to climate change and resource availability. As food webs are impacted, some species have moved into areas of increased human activity, encountering anthropogenic hazards. A coastal marine species that undertakes a long migration between breeding and foraging ranges, the Eastern North Pacific (ENP) population of gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) is especially vulnerable to changes. Subgroups of ENP gray whales, including the Pacific Coast Feeding Group and the (Puget) Sounders, have adapted to exploit alternative feeding grounds as prey availability declines in the Arctic. Novel to known migration phenology, gray whales have been observed seasonally since 2018 in San Francisco Bay (SF Bay), California. We evaluated subgroup identity and mortality of gray whales in SF Bay from 2018 - 2025 using photo-identification. Data were collected through vessel-based surveys, opportunistic effort, and community submissions. We identified 114 individual whales of which eight were matched to a subgroup, indicating gray whales utilizing SF Bay are not merely a range extension by foraging subgroups. Only four gray whales were resighted within SF Bay between years. Using photographs, 21 individuals were successfully matched to carcasses and a minimum mortality rate of 18% was determined. Blunt and/or sharp force trauma consistent with vessel strike was determined to be the cause of death for 30 of 70 carcasses, and for nine of 11 matched animals where a cause of death was determined. Sounder and PCFG matched whales were more likely to survive SF Bay than ENP individuals, though minimum length of stay did not influence mortality. This work confirms that gray whales entering SF Bay are highly susceptible to vessel strike mortality and highlights a crucial need to identify and implement adaptive management strategies to mitigate injuries and mortality as whales continue to utilize novel habitat. Kind regards, Josephine (Josie) Slaathaug *she/her* National Science Foundation Graduate Fellow M.Sc Student, Crocker Lab Sonoma State University, Department of Biology slaathaugj(a)sonoma.edu Linkedin <http://www.linkedin.com/in/josie-slaathaug-341234236>

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New publication: "Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in Dublin Bay: How Does Dredge Disposal Affect Foraging Behavior?"
by CILIA KOOTSTRA - RESEARCH 11 Apr '26

11 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, My authors and I are please to announce the publication of our article titled "Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in Dublin Bay: How Does Dredge Disposal Affect Foraging Behavior?" in the Marine Mammal Journal. The paper can be found at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.70168 Citation: Kootstra, C., C.Russell, S.Berrow, and J.O'Brien. 2026. “Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in Dublin Bay: How Does Dredge Disposal Affect Foraging Behavior?.” Marine Mammal Science42, no. 2: e70168. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70168. Abstract: Harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) are among the most widespread cetacean species in Irish waters and are listed under Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive as a species of community importance. The local harbor porpoise population in Dublin Bay coexists with designated spoil grounds for dredging activity, which has increased due to Dublin Port's Alexandra Basin Redevelopment (ABR) project. This study examines the long- and short-term effects of dredge disposal on harbor porpoise foraging behavior over a 5-year period (2017–2021). Acoustic monitoring using C-PODs was conducted inside and outside the Burford Bank disposal site. The effect of dredge disposal on foraging intensity (quantified by hourly buzz:click ratio) was analyzed using Generalized Additive Mixed Models (GAMMs) and assessed using modified Before–After (BA) and Before–After Control-Impact (BACI) frameworks. We classified 33% of detected clicks as buzzes. Foraging intensity increased during three of the four dredging phases compared to non-dredging periods at all monitored locations, including the control site. Short-term responses, however, were highly site-specific. These findings suggest that dredge disposal had no obvious negative impact on harbor porpoise foraging behavior and may have increased food availability. This study provides valuable insights into balancing species conservation with infrastructure development. This publication was made possible by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG)'s monitoring of dredging operations in Dublin Bay for nearly 10 years, in collaboration with Dublin Port Company (DPC) and RPS Group. We thank them for their continued help and support throughout the project. All the best, Cilia Kootstra, PhD candidate. Marine and Freshwater Reasearch Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU). Tá an ríomhphost seo faoi réir an tséanta seo leanas atá le fáil ag Séanadh Ríomhphost Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh<https://www.atu.ie/email-disclaimer> This e-mail is subject to the following disclaimer available at Atlantic TU Email Disclaimer<https://www.atu.ie/email-disclaimer>

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European Cetacean Society Conference Newsletter April
by Mariel tendoeschate 10 Apr '26

10 Apr '26

Dear all, Less than two weeks to go until the ECS conference will take place in Dundee (20 - 24 April 2026). Please find the latest information in the April Newsletter<https://sway.cloud.microsoft/dnEvj2AKG7EeJ0iw> , which also includes links to the programme and abstract book. This will be our last newsletter as we focus on the final logistics for the conference. All further communications will be sent to registered delegates only and/or shared on the social media channels. We will also post on the social media during the conference, so those who are not able to join us in person can still follow the ongoings there. We look forward to seeing many of you in Dundee, soon! Kind regards, Your ECS2026 Local Organising Committee Carol Sparling, Mariel ten Doeschate, Ailsa Hall and Joanna Kershaw Local Organising Committee ECS Dundee, Scotland, 2026 Website<https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference-2026> <https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference-2026> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/europeancetaceansociety/> | Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCetaceanSociety>

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DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL
by AIMM Internships 10 Apr '26

10 Apr '26

*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL* *BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM, is a non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behavior, and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and inform marine management policies. The main species observed are Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), although other species such as Minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) can also be sighted. AIMM Interns are young, hard-working individuals who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine biologists. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an friendly and multicultural environment. Interns have the additional option to enrich their time with AIMM by beginning or improving their SCUBA skills with a PADI-certified instructor, hiking, kayaking, surf classes and others. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* The field season lasts from 17th May to end of November 2025. The minimum internship attendance is 14 days. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in AIMM's research vessel, Ketos, commercial dolphin watching boats and from the shore. Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions. The field days can be intense, especially in the peak of summer but are fulfilling and good fun. The interns will be trained to: - Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence; - Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS; - Access and collect environmental data; - Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc.; - Collect photos to photo-identification, acoustic recording, and underwater videos; - Help to collect of drone footage from the marine mammals; - Land base monitoring of marine mammals. *DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail entering data into established databases and spreadsheets, photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation. *INTERNSHIP FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people like you so that we may continue our important research and education programs in the Algarve. This internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a non-profit. For more information on internship fees for the 2025 season, please contact: interns(a)aimmportugal.org *Included* in the fee is: - Accommodation in AIMM field station; - Transportation to/from the marina; - All meals at home (breakfast, lunch, and dinner); - Fieldwork; - Theoretical classes. *Not included* in the fee is: - Transportation to/from Albufeira; - Meals in restaurants; - Free time activities; - Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance); - Others personal expenses. *INTERNS ARE EXPECTED TO:* - Be above the age of 16; - Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment; - Be autonomous and flexible; - Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea; - Speak English; - Participate for minimum 7 days. *Preference will be given* to those who have: - Relevant marine mammal field experience - Working experience on research vessels - Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms - Experience in photo-identification - Availability to stay for longer periods of time *INTERNSHIP APPLICATION: * You can apply on AIMM website here <http://www.aimmportugal.org/opportunities/dolphin-research-internship/>*.* *or * Send us an e-mail to: interns(a)aimmportugal.org, with the subject “*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP*” with your CV and motivation letter. We will send you a confirmation email with the availability and all the other details. Applications will be accepted during all season. However, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. The follow links are a shorts videos about the internship in Albufeira. You get a different perspective and feedback from old participants about it: http://bit.ly/aimm-movie <https://bit.ly/AIMM-movie> https://youtu.be/hTJJQPHBdI0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zTIEQEsftA *Contacts*: interns(a)aimmportugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org | Thank you, <http://aimm-marineresearch.blogspot.com/> [image: Logo AIMM] <https://www.aimmportugal.org/> Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho *Marine Environment Research Association* m: (00351) 964464657 e: interns(a)aimmportugal.org www.aimmportugal.org <https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8jcTONJZsvaQ3tZiQtRFNQ> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/aimm-portugal---marine-environment-researc…> <https://www.instagram.com/aimmportugal_org/>

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New paper: “BW90”: The Highest Frequency Clicks Ever Recorded for a Beaked Whale
by Raphael Machado 09 Apr '26

09 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, We are pleased to announce the publication of our new article entitled *“BW90: The Highest Frequency Clicks Ever Recorded for a Beaked Whale.”* The article is open access at the following link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.70161 Rodrigues-Soares, N., R. B. Machado, Y. Viana, and A. Andriolo. 2026. “BW90: The Highest Frequency Clicks Ever Recorded for a Beaked Whale.” *Marine Mammal Science* 42(2): e70161. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70161. *Abstract:* Beaked whales are deep-diving odontocetes with cryptic behavior, which makes their detection through visual surveys challenging. Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) is essential for studying this group, as many species emit species-specific frequency-modulated (FM) pulses that enable acoustic discrimination. In the Southwest Atlantic Ocean (SWAO), knowledge of beaked whale diversity and acoustic repertoires remains limited. In this study, we describe a new type of FM pulse attributed to a beaked whale, recorded during two passive acoustic monitoring surveys conducted in deep offshore waters off northeastern Brazil in 2020 and 2025. Recordings were obtained using a 300 m linear array composed of four omnidirectional hydrophones (sensitivity of −205 dB re 1 V/µPa) operating at a sampling rate of 500 kHz, and were analyzed using PAMGuard and Raven software, as well as custom routines developed in R and Python. A total of 378 FM pulses were detected (313 in 2020 and 65 in 2025), along with a small number of non-modulated echolocation clicks recorded during the first detection. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed substantial overlap among detections, suggesting a single acoustic signal type, designated BW90. The FM pulses exhibited peak frequencies around 90 kHz, higher than those reported for any known beaked whale species, and showed distinct temporal and spectral characteristics. Using published data, we examined the relationship between peak frequency and body length across beaked whale species and found a strong inverse relationship (R² = 0.79; p < 0.001), suggesting that the species producing BW90 is likely small-bodied, with an estimated body length of approximately 3.2 m—smaller than any described beaked whale species.These results indicate that BW90 may be associated with a beaked whale species that has not yet been acoustically classified or formally described, highlighting PAM as a powerful tool for detecting cryptic biodiversity in poorly studied oceanic regions. Best regards, Raphael Machado --

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