To whom it may concern,
We have developed a low cost tag (under U$ 4000) to study the southern right
whale behavior in Peninsula Valdés, Argentina. The unit (computer and
sensors not connected ) was successfully attached to 23 whales during November
and December 2008. We have just started to testing a number of sensors
connected to a micro computer (open source Linux software). The device
(400 gr weight) has three silicone suction cup , which are released by a radio
triggered device (up to 2 miles). The prototype has an internal hydrophone plus
an external mono audio plug, a 12 bit digital camera (vga quality, IR capable),
a 3D inertial movement unit (3 axes of acceleration input + 3 axes of
gyroscopic input + 3 axes of magnetic input), two analog connectors for
external sensors (pressure, hearth rate), 8Gbs micro SD memory, Bluetooth
data offload, and a high sensitivity GPS-enabled tag tracking system (to
recovery the unit post released up to 5 miles). The complete system work with a
custom PDA from where can be download all the tag data, track the device and
activate the radio valves to release suction cups.
We will use this unit in several
research projects, including underwater noise disturbance in Peninsula Valdes
Gulfs, behavioral responses of whales to kelp gull attacks, response of whales
to a whale watching boats, and playback and response experiments to prevent
potential risk on ship strike incidents, beginning August 2009. Because we work
in shallow waters (up to 100 meters depth) we did not test the tag in a high
pressure environment. Even the device was developed to work with right whales,
we are pleased to share the device and our first experience with
cetaceans research teams who want to use our tag with other species (2010
season).
Kind Regards and please could you be so
kind to respond directly to our E-mail address,
Daniel Pérez Martínez
Independent consultant
Domec García Norte 1142
(9120) Puerto Madryn (Chubut) Argentina
Dr. Marcelo Bertellotti
Biología y Manejo de Recursos Acuáticos
Centro Nacional Patagónico (CONICET)
Boulevard Brown 2825
(9120) Puerto Madryn (Chubut) Argentina