Dear MarMam Community, Myself and coauthors would like to announce our most recent publication in the Journal of Experimental Biology ( https://journals.biologists.com/jeb/article-abstract/226/1/jeb244862/286602/...). This research considers the energetic consequences of molt in spotted, ringed, and bearded seals — by comparing metabolic costs of individuals resting calmly in water versus during haul out, both inside and outside of molt. Details for the paper are below. *Title*: Maintaining control: metabolism of molting Arctic seals in water and when hauled out *Authors*: Nicole M. Thometz, David A. S. Rosen, Holly Hermann-Sorensen, Madeline Meranda, Madilyn Pardini, and Colleen Reichmuth *Abstract*: Seals haul out of water for extended periods during the annual molt, when they shed and regrow their pelage. This behavior is believed to limit heat loss to the environment given increased peripheral blood flow to support tissue regeneration. The degree to which time in water, particularly during the molt, may affect thermoregulatory costs is poorly understood. We measured the resting metabolism of three spotted seals (Phoca largha), one ringed seal (Pusa hispida) and one bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus) during and outside the molting period, while resting in water and when hauled out. Metabolic rates were elevated in spotted and ringed seals during molt, but comparable in water and air for individuals of all species, regardless of molt status. Our data indicate that elevated metabolism during molt primarily reflects the cost of tissue regeneration, while increased haul out behavior is driven by the need to maintain elevated skin temperatures to support tissue regeneration. Please email nthometz@usfca.edu if you have any questions or need access to the paper. Best, -- Nicole M. Thometz, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Department of Biology University of San Francisco 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117 Office: Harney 219H Website: https://thometzlab.wixsite.com/thometzlab