1
|
Lindsay SA, Fulham M, Caraguel CGB, Gray R. Mitigating disease risk in an endangered pinniped: early hookworm elimination optimizes the growth and health of Australian sea lion pups. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1161185. [PMID: 37180065 PMCID: PMC10168540 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1161185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) experiences high pup mortality of seasonally alternating severity, partly attributed to endemic hookworm (Uncinaria sanguinis) infection. To further explore health outcomes of early hookworm elimination, a treatment trial was conducted at Seal Bay Conservation Park, South Australia, over consecutive lower and higher mortality breeding seasons (2019, 19.2%; 2020-1; 28.9%). Pups (n = 322) were stratified into two age cohorts (median 14 d and 24 d recruitment ages) and randomly assigned to treated (topical ivermectin 500 μg/kg) or control (untreated) groups. A younger prepatent cohort <14 d old (median 10 d) was identified a posteriori. A seasonally independent growth benefit resulted from hookworm elimination across all age cohorts. The greatest relative improvements (bodyweight + 34.2%, standard length + 42.1%; p ≤ 0.001) occurred in the month post-treatment, in the youngest prepatent cohort. A significant benefit of lesser magnitude (bodyweight + 8.6-11.6%, standard length + 9.5-18.4%; p ≤ 0.033) persisted up to 3 months across all age cohorts - greatest in the youngest pups. Treatment resulted in immediate improvement in hematological measures of health - decreased anemia and inflammation severity (p ≤ 0.012). These results enhance our understanding of host-parasite-environment interactions within the context of hematological ontogenesis, confirm the seasonally independent benefits of hookworm disease intervention, and further inform conservation recommendations for this endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott A. Lindsay
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Mariel Fulham
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Charles G. B. Caraguel
- Faculty of Science, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Rachael Gray
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bilgmann K, Armansin N, Ferchaud A, Normandeau E, Bernatchez L, Harcourt R, Ahonen H, Lowther A, Goldsworthy S, Stow A. Low effective population size in the genetically bottlenecked Australian sea lion is insufficient to maintain genetic variation. Anim Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Bilgmann
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney Australia
| | - N. Armansin
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney Australia
| | - A.L. Ferchaud
- Département de Biologie Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS) Université Laval Québec QC Canada
| | - E. Normandeau
- Département de Biologie Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS) Université Laval Québec QC Canada
| | - L. Bernatchez
- Département de Biologie Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS) Université Laval Québec QC Canada
| | - R. Harcourt
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney Australia
| | - H. Ahonen
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney Australia
- Norwegian Polar Institute Tromsø Norway
| | | | - S.D. Goldsworthy
- South Australian Research and Development Institute Adelaide South Australia
| | - A. Stow
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Modi S, Mondol S, Nigam P, Habib B. Genetic analyses reveal demographic decline and population differentiation in an endangered social carnivore, Asiatic wild dog. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16371. [PMID: 34385570 PMCID: PMC8361113 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95918-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Deforestation and agricultural intensification have resulted in an alarming change in the global land cover over the past 300 years, posing a threat to species conservation. Dhole is a monophyletic, social canid and, being an endangered and highly forest-dependent species, is more prone to the loss of favorable habitat in the Anthropocene. We determined the genetic differentiation and demographic history of dhole across the tiger reserves of Maharashtra using the microsatellite data of 305 individuals. Simulation-based analyses revealed a 77-85% decline in the major dhole sub-populations. Protected areas have provided refuge to the historically declining dhole population resulting in clustering with strong genetic structure in the remnant dhole population. The historical population decline coincides with the extreme events in the landscape over the past 300 years. The study highlights the pattern of genetic differentiation and diversity of a highly forest-dependent species which can be associated with the loss of forest cover outside tiger reserves. It also warrants attention to develop conservation plans for the remnant surviving population of dholes in India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shrushti Modi
- Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun, 248001, India
| | - Samrat Mondol
- Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun, 248001, India
| | - Parag Nigam
- Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun, 248001, India
| | - Bilal Habib
- Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun, 248001, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Speakman CN, Lloyd ST, Camprasse ECM, Hoskins AJ, Hindell MA, Costa DP, Arnould JPY. Intertrip consistency in hunting behavior improves foraging success and efficiency in a marine top predator. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:4428-4441. [PMID: 33976820 PMCID: PMC8093728 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Substantial variation in foraging strategies can exist within populations, even those typically regarded as generalists. Specializations arise from the consistent exploitation of a narrow behavioral, spatial or dietary niche over time, which may reduce intraspecific competition and influence adaptability to environmental change. However, few studies have investigated whether behavioral consistency confers benefits at the individual and/or population level. While still recovering from commercial sealing overexploitation, Australian fur seals (AUFS; Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) represent the largest marine predator biomass in south-eastern Australia. During lactation, female AUFS adopt a central-place foraging strategy and are, thus, vulnerable to changes in prey availability. The present study investigated the population-level repeatability and individual consistency in foraging behavior of 34 lactating female AUFS at a south-east Australian breeding colony between 2006 and 2019. Additionally, the influence of individual-level behavioral consistency on indices of foraging success and efficiency during benthic diving was determined. Low to moderate population-level repeatability was observed across foraging behaviors, with the greatest repeatability in the mean bearing and modal dive depth. Individual-level consistency was greatest for the proportion of benthic diving, total distance travelled, and trip duration. Indices of benthic foraging success and efficiency were positively influenced by consistency in the proportion of benthic diving, trip duration and dive rate but not influenced by consistency in bearing to most distal point, dive depth or foraging site fidelity. The results of the present study provide evidence of the benefits of consistency for individuals, which may have flow-on effects at the population level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cassie N. Speakman
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesDeakin UniversityBurwoodVic.Australia
| | - Sebastian T. Lloyd
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesDeakin UniversityBurwoodVic.Australia
| | | | | | - Mark A. Hindell
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic StudiesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasAustralia
| | - Daniel P. Costa
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology DepartmentUniversity of California Santa CruzSanta CruzCAUSA
| | - John P. Y. Arnould
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesDeakin UniversityBurwoodVic.Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Goldsworthy SD, Shaughnessy PD, Mackay AI, Bailleul F, Holman D, Lowther AD, Page B, Waples K, Raudino H, Bryars S, Anderson T. Assessment of the status and trends in abundance of a coastal pinniped, the Australian sea lion Neophoca cinerea. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Australian sea lions Neophoca cinerea are endemic to Australia, with their contemporary distribution restricted to South Australia (SA) and Western Australia (WA). Monitoring of the species has proved challenging due to prolonged breeding events that occur non-annually and asynchronously across their range. The most recent available data from 80 extant breeding sites (48 in SA, 32 in WA) enabled us to estimate the species-wide pup abundance to be 2739, with 82% (2246) in SA and 18% (493) in WA, mostly based on surveys conducted between 2014 and 2019. We evaluated 1776 individual site-surveys undertaken between 1970 and 2019 and identified admissible time-series data from 30 breeding sites, which revealed that pup abundance declined on average by 2.0% yr-1 (range 9.9% decline to 1.7% growth yr-1). The overall reduction in pup abundance over 3 generations (42.3 yr) was estimated to be 64%, with over 98% of Monte Carlo simulations producing a decline >50% over a 3-generation period, providing strong evidence that the species meets IUCN ‘Endangered’ criteria (decline ≥50% and ≤80%). The population is much smaller than previously estimated and is declining. There is a strong cline in regional abundances (increasing from west to east), with marked within-region heterogeneity in breeding site pup abundances and trends. Results from this study should improve consistency in the assessment of the species and create greater certainty among stakeholders about its conservation status. To facilitate species management and recovery, we prioritise key data gaps and identify factors to improve population monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- SD Goldsworthy
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, West Beach, South Australia 5024, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - PD Shaughnessy
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, West Beach, South Australia 5024, Australia
- South Australian Museum, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - AI Mackay
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, West Beach, South Australia 5024, Australia
| | - F Bailleul
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, West Beach, South Australia 5024, Australia
| | - D Holman
- Department for Environment and Water, Port Lincoln, South Australia 5066, Australia
| | - AD Lowther
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Framsentret, 9296 Tromsø, Norway
| | - B Page
- Department of Primary Industries and Regions, Urrbrae, South Australia 5064, Australia
| | - K Waples
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Kensington, Western Australia 6151, Australia
| | - H Raudino
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Kensington, Western Australia 6151, Australia
| | - S Bryars
- Department for Environment and Water, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - T Anderson
- Helifarm, Ceduna, South Australia 5690, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lidgard DC, Bowen WD, Iverson SJ. Sex-differences in fine-scale home-range use in an upper-trophic level marine predator. MOVEMENT ECOLOGY 2020; 8:11. [PMID: 32082578 PMCID: PMC7020581 DOI: 10.1186/s40462-020-0196-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The distribution of prey in the ocean is spatially and temporally patchy. How predators respond to this prey patchiness may have consequences on their foraging success, and thus physical condition. The recent ability to record fine-scale movements of marine animals combined with novel home-range analyses that incorporate the dimension of time should permit a better understanding of how individuals utilise different regions of space and the consequences on their foraging success. METHODS Over a six-year study, we used T-LoCoH (Time-Local Convex Hull) home-range software to model archival GPS (Global Positioning System) data from 81 grey seals to investigate the fine-scale spatio-temporal use of space and the distribution of apparent foraging effort. Regions of home-ranges were classified according to the frequency of return visits (site fidelity) and duration of visits (intensity of use). Generalized linear mixed -effects models were used to test hypotheses on seasonal changes in foraging distribution and behaviour and the role of space-use and state on determining foraging success. RESULTS Male grey seals had larger home-ranges and core areas than females, and both sexes showed a contraction in home-range and core area in fall leading up to the breeding season compared with summer. Heavier individuals had smaller core areas than lighter ones, suggesting access to higher quality habitat might be limited to those individuals with greater foraging experience and competitive ability. The size of the home-range or core area was not an important predictor of the rate of mass gain. A fine-scale spatio-temporal analysis of habitat use within the home-range provided evidence of intra-annual site fidelity at presumed foraging locations, suggesting predictably in prey distribution. Neither sex nor season were useful predictors for classifying behaviour. Rather, individual identity explained much of the variation in fine-scale behaviour. CONCLUSIONS Understanding how upper-trophic level marine predators use space provides opportunities to explore the consequences of variation in foraging tactics and their success on fitness. Having knowledge of the drivers that shape this intraspecific variation can contribute toward predicting how these predators may respond to both natural and man-made environmental forcing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D. C. Lidgard
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, B3H 4J1, Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada
- Population Ecology Division, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2Y 4A2 Canada
| | - W. D. Bowen
- Population Ecology Division, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2Y 4A2 Canada
| | - S. J. Iverson
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, B3H 4J1, Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Smith J, Karpovich S, Breed GA, O’Brien DM. Morphological characteristics of harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) whiskers and their use in dietary reconstruction using stable isotope ratios. CAN J ZOOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2017-0309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether inferences about harbor seal (Phoca vitulina Linnaeus, 1758) whisker shed status and growth rates based on whisker morphology could improve dietary time series from whisker isotopic profiles. We identified morphometric characteristics of Alaskan harbor seal whiskers, including a smooth root section (SRS) and a bumpy section. The SRS was longer for spring versus fall-collected whiskers and matched the length of fully grown, shed whiskers. Thus, SRS length can differentiate whisker shed and growth status, and we used it to determine the sequence of whisker shedding by cohort in summer-captured harbor seals. The mean interbump length (IBL) correlated with whisker length, potentially providing a proxy for whisker growth rate. We compared carbon isotope ratios (expressed as δ13C values) along the three longest whiskers from 10 harbor seals, using two approaches for converting whisker position to date: (1) a standard growth rate constant based on captive studies and (2) individually adjusted growth rates based on whisker morphology. Intraindividual patterns of whisker δ13C values became more synchronous when expressed by deposition date rather than by position; however, adjusting growth rates based on IBL did not improve synchrony further. These findings suggest that whisker morphology can contribute whisker growth rate and shedding information for dietary reconstruction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Smith
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, 1300 College Road, Fairbanks, AK 99701, USA
| | - Shawna Karpovich
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, 1300 College Road, Fairbanks, AK 99701, USA
| | - Greg A. Breed
- Institute of Arctic Biology, 401 IRV 1, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
| | - Diane M. O’Brien
- Institute of Arctic Biology, P.O. Box 757000, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7000, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Comparative ecology of Escherichia coli in endangered Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) pups. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 62:262-269. [PMID: 29730275 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The dissemination of human-associated bacteria into the marine environment has the potential to expose wildlife populations to atypical microbes that can alter the composition of the gut microbiome or act as pathogens. The objective of the study was to determine whether endangered Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) pups from two South Australian colonies, Seal Bay, Kangaroo Island and Dangerous Reef, Spencer Gulf, have been colonised by human-associated Escherichia coli. Faecal samples (n = 111) were collected to isolate E. coli, and molecular screening was applied to assign E. coli isolates (n = 94) to phylotypes and detect class 1 integrons; mobile genetic elements that confer resistance to antimicrobial agents. E. coli phylotype distribution and frequency differed significantly between colonies with phylotypes B2 and D being the most abundant at Seal Bay, Kangaroo Island (55% and 7%) and Dangerous Reef, Spencer Gulf (36% and 49%), respectively. This study reports the first case of antimicrobial resistant E. coli in free-ranging Australian sea lions through the identification of class 1 integrons from an individual pup at Seal Bay. A significant relationship between phylotype and total white cell count (WCC) was identified, with significantly higher WCC seen in pups with human-associated phylotypes at Dangerous Reef. The difference in phylotype distribution and presence of human-associated E. coli suggests that proximity to human populations can influence sea lion gut microbiota. The identification of antimicrobial resistance in a free-ranging pinniped population provides crucial information concerning anthropogenic influences in the marine environment.
Collapse
|
9
|
Grandi MF, Loizaga de Castro R, Terán E, Santos MR, Bailliet G, Crespo EA. Is recolonization pattern related to female philopatry? An insight into a colonially breeding mammal. Mamm Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2017.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
10
|
Ahonen H, Harcourt RG, Stow AJ, Charrier I. Geographic vocal variation and perceptual discrimination abilities in male Australian sea lions. Anim Cogn 2018; 21:235-243. [PMID: 29352457 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-017-1158-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Vocal characteristics can vary among and within populations. In species with geographic variation in the structure of vocalizations, individuals may have the ability to discriminate between calls from local and non-local individuals. The ability to distinguish differences in acoustic signals is likely to have a significant influence on the outcome of social interactions between individuals, including potentially mate selection and breeding success. Pinnipeds (seals, fur seals, sea lions and walruses) are highly vocal yet the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) is the only eared seal known to show geographic vocal variation in male barks. Barks are produced in many social interactions and encode sufficient information for both individual and colony identity to be discriminable. Yet until now, whether males could themselves discriminate these bark differences was unclear. We performed playback experiments in four breeding colonies to investigate whether males can discriminate local from non-local barks. Overall, males responded more strongly to barks from their own colony compared to barks from other colonies regardless of whether those other colonies were close or distant. Competition for females is high in Australian sea lions, but mating periods are asynchronous across colonies. The ability to correctly assess whether a male is from the same colony, thus representing a potential competitor for mates, or merely a visitor from elsewhere, may influence how males interact with others. Given the high cost of fighting, the ability to discern competitors may influence the nature of male-male interactions and ultimately influence how they allocate reproductive effort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Ahonen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- CNRS, UMR 9197, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Paris-Sud, 91405, Orsay, France.
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens gate 14, 9296, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Robert G Harcourt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adam J Stow
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Isabelle Charrier
- CNRS, UMR 9197, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Paris-Sud, 91405, Orsay, France
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Páez-Rosas D, Villegas-Amtmann S, Costa D. Intraspecific variation in feeding strategies of Galapagos sea lions: A case of trophic specialization. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185165. [PMID: 29059188 PMCID: PMC5653192 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The trophic behavior of marine predators varies according to the level of competition to which they are exposed. In general, populations that inhabit lower productivity systems face a strong intraspecific competition, which contributes to the development of different foraging strategies to maximize nutritional efficiency. Given the high trophic flexibility of Zalophus wollebaeki, this species is considered appropriate for the analysis of such behavior. Furthermore, this trophic flexibility has allowed them to persist in a seemingly marginal ecosystem. In this study, we used a comparative analysis of variables (diet and dive behavior) related to Z. wollebaeki trophic niche plasticity to better understand their foraging ecology, using techniques such scat analysis, satellite telemetry and complementarily an isotopic analysis. Scat analysis revealed intra-population variation in their diet, represented by prey from different environments (epipelagic and benthic). These results are supported by the animals’ locations at sea and diving profiles. Global Positioning System (GPS) and time-depth recorder (TDR) records showed the existence of two groups, with differing feeding areas and diving behavior. Also the δ15N values showed differences in the trophic level at which the species fed. These results constitute a relevant finding in the evolutionary behavior of the species, showing that Z. wollebaeki has developed a high degree of foraging flexibility, thus increasing its survival rate in an ecosystem that is highly demanding in terms of resource availability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Páez-Rosas
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) and Galapagos Science Center, Galápagos, Ecuador
- Dirección Parque Nacional Galápagos, Unidad Técnica Operativa San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador
- * E-mail:
| | - Stella Villegas-Amtmann
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California at Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States of America
| | - Daniel Costa
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California at Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Avé MH, Voslamber B, Hallmann CA, Stahl J. Rearing conditions of greylag geese affect habitat choice throughout life. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maaike H. Avé
- M. H. Avé , B. Voslamber and J. Stahl, Sovon Dutch Centre for Field Ornithology, PO Box 6521, NL-6500 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Berend Voslamber
- M. H. Avé , B. Voslamber and J. Stahl, Sovon Dutch Centre for Field Ornithology, PO Box 6521, NL-6500 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Caspar A. Hallmann
- C. A. Hallmann, Inst. for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University, PO Box 9010, NL-6500 GL Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Julia Stahl
- M. H. Avé , B. Voslamber and J. Stahl, Sovon Dutch Centre for Field Ornithology, PO Box 6521, NL-6500 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cannizzo ZJ, Griffen BD. Changes in spatial behaviour patterns by mangrove tree crabs following climate-induced range shift into novel habitat. Anim Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2016.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
14
|
Lowther AD, Goldsworthy SD. When were the weaners weaned? Identifying the onset of Australian sea lion nutritional independence. J Mammal 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyw106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
15
|
Foraging strategies of a generalist marine predator inhabiting a dynamic environment. Oecologia 2016; 182:995-1005. [DOI: 10.1007/s00442-016-3732-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
16
|
Dussex N, Robertson BC, Salis AT, Kalinin A, Best H, Gemmell NJ. Low Spatial Genetic Differentiation Associated with Rapid Recolonization in the New Zealand Fur Seal Arctocephalus forsteri. J Hered 2016; 107:581-592. [PMID: 27563072 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esw056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Population declines resulting from anthropogenic activities are of major consequence for the long-term survival of species because the resulting loss of genetic diversity can lead to extinction via the effects of inbreeding depression, fixation of deleterious mutations, and loss of adaptive potential. Otariid pinnipeds have been exploited commercially to near extinction with some species showing higher demographic resilience and recolonization potential than others. The New Zealand fur seal (NZFS) was heavily impacted by commercial sealing between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, but has recolonized its former range in southern Australia. The species has also recolonized its former range in New Zealand, yet little is known about the pattern of recolonization. Here, we first used 11 microsatellite markers (n = 383) to investigate the contemporary population structure and dispersal patterns in the NZFS (Arctocephalus forsteri). Secondly, we model postsealing recolonization with 1 additional mtDNA cytochrome b (n = 261) marker. Our data identified 3 genetic clusters: an Australian, a subantarctic, and a New Zealand one, with a weak and probably transient subdivision within the latter cluster. Demographic history scenarios supported a recolonization of the New Zealand coastline from remote west coast colonies, which is consistent with contemporary gene flow and with the species' high resilience. The present data suggest the management of distinct genetic units in the North and South of New Zealand along a genetic gradient. Assignment of individuals to their colony of origin was limited (32%) with the present data indicating the current microsatellite markers are unlikely sufficient to assign fisheries bycatch of NZFSs to colonies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Dussex
- From the Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex, Robertson, and Salis); Allan Wilson Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand (Robertson, Kalinin, and Gemmell); and Marine Conservation Unit, Department of Conservation, Wellington, New Zealand (Best)
| | - Bruce C Robertson
- From the Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex, Robertson, and Salis); Allan Wilson Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand (Robertson, Kalinin, and Gemmell); and Marine Conservation Unit, Department of Conservation, Wellington, New Zealand (Best)
| | - Alexander T Salis
- From the Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex, Robertson, and Salis); Allan Wilson Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand (Robertson, Kalinin, and Gemmell); and Marine Conservation Unit, Department of Conservation, Wellington, New Zealand (Best)
| | - Aleksandr Kalinin
- From the Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex, Robertson, and Salis); Allan Wilson Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand (Robertson, Kalinin, and Gemmell); and Marine Conservation Unit, Department of Conservation, Wellington, New Zealand (Best)
| | - Hugh Best
- From the Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex, Robertson, and Salis); Allan Wilson Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand (Robertson, Kalinin, and Gemmell); and Marine Conservation Unit, Department of Conservation, Wellington, New Zealand (Best)
| | - Neil J Gemmell
- From the Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex, Robertson, and Salis); Allan Wilson Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (Dussex and Gemmell); School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand (Robertson, Kalinin, and Gemmell); and Marine Conservation Unit, Department of Conservation, Wellington, New Zealand (Best)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hoffman JI, Kowalski GJ, Klimova A, Eberhart-Phillips LJ, Staniland IJ, Baylis AMM. Population structure and historical demography of South American sea lions provide insights into the catastrophic decline of a marine mammal population. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2016; 3:160291. [PMID: 27493782 PMCID: PMC4968474 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.160291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the causes of population decline is crucial for conservation management. We therefore used genetic analysis both to provide baseline data on population structure and to evaluate hypotheses for the catastrophic decline of the South American sea lion (Otaria flavescens) at the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) in the South Atlantic. We genotyped 259 animals from 23 colonies across the Falklands at 281 bp of the mitochondrial hypervariable region and 22 microsatellites. A weak signature of population structure was detected, genetic diversity was moderately high in comparison with other pinniped species, and no evidence was found for the decline being associated with a strong demographic bottleneck. By combining our mitochondrial data with published sequences from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Peru, we also uncovered strong maternally directed population structure across the geographical range of the species. In particular, very few shared haplotypes were found between the Falklands and South America, and this was reflected in correspondingly low migration rate estimates. These findings do not support the prominent hypothesis that the decline was caused by migration to Argentina, where large-scale commercial harvesting operations claimed over half a million animals. Thus, our study not only provides baseline data for conservation management but also reveals the potential for genetic studies to shed light upon long-standing questions pertaining to the history and fate of natural populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. I. Hoffman
- Department of Animal Behaviour, University of Bielefeld, Postfach 100131, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - G. J. Kowalski
- Department of Animal Behaviour, University of Bielefeld, Postfach 100131, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
- Animal Ecology Group, Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Maulbeerallee 1, 14469, Potsdam, Germany
| | - A. Klimova
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste Baja California Sur, La Paz, Mexico
| | - L. J. Eberhart-Phillips
- Department of Animal Behaviour, University of Bielefeld, Postfach 100131, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - I. J. Staniland
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
| | - A. M. M. Baylis
- South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute, Stanley FIQQ1ZZ, Falkland Islands
- Falklands Conservation, Stanley FIQQ1ZZ, Falkland Islands
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Delport TC, Power ML, Harcourt RG, Webster KN, Tetu SG. Colony Location and Captivity Influence the Gut Microbial Community Composition of the Australian Sea Lion (Neophoca cinerea). Appl Environ Microbiol 2016; 82:3440-3449. [PMID: 27037116 PMCID: PMC4959163 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00192-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Gut microbiota play an important role in maintenance of mammalian metabolism and immune system regulation, and disturbances to this community can have adverse impacts on animal health. To better understand the composition of gut microbiota in marine mammals, fecal bacterial communities of the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea), an endangered pinniped with localized distribution, were examined. A comparison of samples from individuals across 11 wild colonies in South and Western Australia and three Australian captive populations showed five dominant bacterial phyla: Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Fusobacteria The phylum Firmicutes was dominant in both wild (76.4% ± 4.73%) and captive animals (61.4% ± 10.8%), while Proteobacteria contributed more to captive (29.3% ± 11.5%) than to wild (10.6% ± 3.43%) fecal communities. Qualitative differences were observed between fecal communities from wild and captive animals based on principal-coordinate analysis. SIMPER (similarity percentage procedure) analyses indicated that operational taxonomic units (OTU) from the bacterial families Clostridiaceae and Ruminococcaceae were more abundant in wild than in captive animals and contributed most to the average dissimilarity between groups (SIMPER contributions of 19.1% and 10.9%, respectively). Differences in the biological environment, the foraging site fidelity, and anthropogenic impacts may provide various opportunities for unique microbial establishment in Australian sea lions. As anthropogenic disturbances to marine mammals are likely to increase, understanding the potential for such disturbances to impact microbial community compositions and subsequently affect animal health will be beneficial for management of these vulnerable species. IMPORTANCE The Australian sea lion is an endangered species for which there is currently little information regarding disease and microbial ecology. In this work, we present an in-depth study of the fecal microbiota of a large number of Australian sea lions from geographically diverse wild and captive populations. Colony location and captivity were found to influence the gut microbial community compositions of these animals. Our findings significantly extend the baseline knowledge of marine mammal gut microbiome composition and variability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany C Delport
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle L Power
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert G Harcourt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Koa N Webster
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sasha G Tetu
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Alexander A, Steel D, Hoekzema K, Mesnick SL, Engelhaupt D, Kerr I, Payne R, Baker CS. What influences the worldwide genetic structure of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus)? Mol Ecol 2016; 25:2754-72. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alana Alexander
- Marine Mammal Institute; Hatfield Marine Science Center; Oregon State University; 2030 SE Marine Science Drive Newport OR 97365 USA
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife; Oregon State University; 104 Nash Hall Corvallis OR 97330 USA
- Biodiversity Institute; University of Kansas; 1345 Jayhawk Blvd Lawrence KS 66045 USA
| | - Debbie Steel
- Marine Mammal Institute; Hatfield Marine Science Center; Oregon State University; 2030 SE Marine Science Drive Newport OR 97365 USA
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife; Oregon State University; 104 Nash Hall Corvallis OR 97330 USA
| | - Kendra Hoekzema
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife; Oregon State University; 104 Nash Hall Corvallis OR 97330 USA
| | - Sarah L. Mesnick
- Southwest Fisheries Science Center; National Marine Fisheries Service; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; 8901 La Jolla Shores Drive La Jolla CA 92037 USA
| | | | - Iain Kerr
- Ocean Alliance; 32 Horton Street Gloucester MA 01930 USA
| | - Roger Payne
- Ocean Alliance; 32 Horton Street Gloucester MA 01930 USA
| | - C. Scott Baker
- Marine Mammal Institute; Hatfield Marine Science Center; Oregon State University; 2030 SE Marine Science Drive Newport OR 97365 USA
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife; Oregon State University; 104 Nash Hall Corvallis OR 97330 USA
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Auckland; Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1142 New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Giardino GV, Mandiola MA, Bastida J, Denuncio PE, Bastida RO, Rodríguez DH. Travel for sex: Long-range breeding dispersal and winter haulout fidelity in southern sea lion males. Mamm Biol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2014.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
21
|
Carroll EL, Baker CS, Watson M, Alderman R, Bannister J, Gaggiotti OE, Gröcke DR, Patenaude N, Harcourt R. Cultural traditions across a migratory network shape the genetic structure of southern right whales around Australia and New Zealand. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16182. [PMID: 26548756 PMCID: PMC4637828 DOI: 10.1038/srep16182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Fidelity to migratory destinations is an important driver of connectivity in marine and avian species. Here we assess the role of maternally directed learning of migratory habitats, or migratory culture, on the population structure of the endangered Australian and New Zealand southern right whale. Using DNA profiles, comprising mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotypes (500 bp), microsatellite genotypes (17 loci) and sex from 128 individually-identified whales, we find significant differentiation among winter calving grounds based on both mtDNA haplotype (FST = 0.048, ΦST = 0.109, p < 0.01) and microsatellite allele frequencies (FST = 0.008, p < 0.01), consistent with long-term fidelity to calving areas. However, most genetic comparisons of calving grounds and migratory corridors were not significant, supporting the idea that whales from different calving grounds mix in migratory corridors. Furthermore, we find a significant relationship between δ(13)C stable isotope profiles of 66 Australian southern right whales, a proxy for feeding ground location, and both mtDNA haplotypes and kinship inferred from microsatellite-based estimators of relatedness. This indicates migratory culture may influence genetic structure on feeding grounds. This fidelity to migratory destinations is likely to influence population recovery, as long-term estimates of historical abundance derived from estimates of genetic diversity indicate the South Pacific calving grounds remain at <10% of pre-whaling abundance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E. L. Carroll
- Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, Scotland
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - C. S. Baker
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
- Marine Mammal Institute and Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State University, Newport, OR 97365, USA
| | - M. Watson
- Department of the Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Barwon South West Region, Warrnambool, VIC 3280, Australia
| | - R. Alderman
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - J. Bannister
- The Western Australian Museum, Locked Bag 49, Welshpool DC, WA 6986, Australia
| | - O. E. Gaggiotti
- Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, Scotland
| | - D. R. Gröcke
- Department of Earth Sciences, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom
| | - N. Patenaude
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
- Collégial International Sainte-Anne, Montréal, Québec, QC H8S 2M8, Canada
| | - R. Harcourt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Differences in foraging ecology align with genetically divergent ecotypes of a highly mobile marine top predator. Oecologia 2015; 179:1041-52. [PMID: 26307593 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-015-3424-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Foraging differentiation within a species can contribute to restricted gene flow between ecologically different groups, promoting ecological speciation. Galapagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) show genetic and morphological divergence between the western and central archipelago, possibly as a result of an ecologically mediated contrast in the marine habitat. We use global positioning system (GPS) data, time-depth recordings (TDR), stable isotope and scat data to compare foraging habitat characteristics, diving behaviour and diet composition of Galapagos sea lions from a western and a central colony. We consider both juvenile and adult life stages to assess the potential role of ontogenetic shifts that can be crucial in shaping foraging behaviour and habitat choice for life. We found differences in foraging habitat use, foraging style and diet composition that aligned with genetic differentiation. These differences were consistent between juvenile and adult sea lions from the same colony, overriding age-specific behavioural differences. Our study contributes to an understanding of the complex interaction of ecological condition, plastic behavioural response and genetic make-up of interconnected populations.
Collapse
|
23
|
MOLECULAR DETECTION OF ANTIBIOTIC-RESISTANCE DETERMINANTS IN ESCHERICHIA COLI ISOLATED FROM THE ENDANGERED AUSTRALIAN SEA LION (NEOPHOCA CINEREA). J Wildl Dis 2015; 51:555-63. [PMID: 25919463 DOI: 10.7589/2014-08-200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Greater interaction between humans and wildlife populations poses significant risks of anthropogenic impact to natural ecosystems, especially in the marine environment. Understanding the spread of microorganisms at the marine interface is therefore important if we are to mitigate adverse effects on marine wildlife. We investigated the establishment of Escherichia coli in the endangered Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) by comparing fecal isolation from wild and captive sea lion populations. Fecal samples were collected from wild colonies March 2009-September 2010 and from captive individuals March 2011-May 2013. Using molecular screening, we assigned a phylotype to E. coli isolates and determined the presence of integrons, mobile genetic elements that capture gene cassettes conferring resistance to antimicrobial agents common in fecal coliforms. Group B2 was the most abundant phylotype in all E. coli isolates (n = 37), with groups A, B1, and D also identified. Integrons were not observed in E. coli (n = 21) isolated from wild sea lions, but were identified in E. coli from captive animals (n = 16), from which class I integrases were detected in eight isolates. Sequencing of gene cassette arrays identified genes conferring resistance to streptomycin-spectinomycin (aadA1) and trimethoprim (dfrA17, dfrB4). Class II integrases were not detected in the E. coli isolates. The frequent detection in captive sea lions of E. coli with resistance genes commonly identified in human clinical cases suggests that conditions experienced in captivity may contribute to establishment. Identification of antibiotic resistance in the microbiota of Australian sea lions provides crucial information for disease management. Our data will inform conservation management strategies and provide a mechanism to monitor microorganism dissemination to sensitive pinniped populations.
Collapse
|
24
|
Lau Q, Chow N, Gray R, Gongora J, Higgins DP. Diversity of MHCDQBandDRBGenes in the Endangered Australian Sea Lion (Neophoca cinerea). J Hered 2015; 106:395-402. [DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esv022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
|
25
|
Ahonen H, Stow AJ, Harcourt RG, Charrier I. Adult male Australian sea lion barking calls reveal clear geographical variations. Anim Behav 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2014.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
26
|
Haynes BT, Marcus AD, Higgins DP, Gongora J, Gray R, Šlapeta J. Unexpected absence of genetic separation of a highly diverse population of hookworms from geographically isolated hosts. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2014; 28:192-200. [PMID: 25262830 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2014.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Revised: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The high natal site fidelity of endangered Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea) along the southern Australian coast suggests that their maternally transmitted parasitic species, such as hookworms, will have restricted potential for dispersal. If this is the case, we would expect to find a hookworm haplotype structure corresponding to that of the host mtDNA haplotype structure; that is, restricted among geographically separated colonies. In this study, we used a fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase I mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene to investigate the diversity of hookworms (Uncinaria sanguinis) in N. cinerea to assess the importance of host distribution and ecology on the evolutionary history of the parasite. High haplotype (h=0.986) and nucleotide diversity (π=0.013) were seen, with 45 unique hookworm mtDNA haplotypes across N. cinerea colonies; with most of the variation (78%) arising from variability within hookworms from individual colonies. This is supported by the low genetic differentiation co-efficient (GST=0.007) and a high gene flow (Nm=35.25) indicating a high migration rate between the populations of hookworms. The haplotype network demonstrated no clear distribution and delineation of haplotypes according to geographical location. Our data rejects the vicariance hypothesis; that female host natal site fidelity and the transmammary route of infection restrict hookworm gene flow between N. cinerea populations and highlights the value of studies of parasite diversity and dispersal to challenge our understanding of parasite and host ecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin T Haynes
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alan D Marcus
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Damien P Higgins
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jaime Gongora
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachael Gray
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium occurrence in Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea) exposed to varied levels of human interaction. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2014; 3:269-75. [PMID: 25426423 PMCID: PMC4241535 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2014.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Giardia and Cryptosporidium are amongst the most common protozoan parasites identified as causing enteric disease in pinnipeds. A number of Giardia assemblages and Cryptosporidium species and genotypes are common in humans and terrestrial mammals and have also been identified in marine mammals. To investigate the occurrence of these parasites in an endangered marine mammal, the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea), genomic DNA was extracted from faecal samples collected from wild populations (n = 271) in Southern and Western Australia and three Australian captive populations (n = 19). These were screened using PCR targeting the 18S rRNA of Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Giardia duodenalis was detected in 28 wild sea lions and in seven captive individuals. Successful sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene assigned 27 Giardia isolates to assemblage B and one to assemblage A, both assemblages commonly found in humans. Subsequent screening at the gdh and β-giardin loci resulted in amplification of only one of the 35 18S rRNA positive samples at the β-giardin locus. Sequencing at the β-giardin locus assigned the assemblage B 18S rRNA confirmed isolate to assemblage AI. The geographic distribution of sea lion populations sampled in relation to human settlements indicated that Giardia presence in sea lions was highest in populations less than 25 km from humans. Cryptosporidium was not detected by PCR screening in either wild colonies or captive sea lion populations. These data suggest that the presence of G. duodenalis in the endangered Australian sea lion is likely the result of dispersal from human sources. Multilocus molecular analyses are essential for the determination of G. duodenalis assemblages and subsequent inferences on transmission routes to endangered marine mammal populations.
Collapse
|
28
|
Epidemiology of hookworm (Uncinaria sanguinis) infection in free-ranging Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) pups. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:3341-53. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3997-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
|
29
|
Lau Q, Wilkin T, Payne E, Gray R, Gongora J, Higgins DP. Primers for amplifying major histocompatibility complex class II DQB and DRB exon 2 in the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea). CONSERV GENET RESOUR 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s12686-014-0244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
30
|
Fine scale population structure of dugongs (Dugong dugon) implies low gene flow along the southern Queensland coastline. CONSERV GENET 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-014-0624-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
31
|
Pinter-Wollman N, Hobson EA, Smith JE, Edelman AJ, Shizuka D, de Silva S, Waters JS, Prager SD, Sasaki T, Wittemyer G, Fewell J, McDonald DB. The dynamics of animal social networks: analytical, conceptual, and theoretical advances. Behav Ecol 2013. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/art047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 278] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
32
|
Augé AA, Chilvers BL, Moore AB, Davis LS. Importance of studying foraging site fidelity for spatial conservation measures in a mobile predator. Anim Conserv 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. A. Augé
- Zoology Department; University of Otago; Dunedin New Zealand
- School of Surveying; University of Otago; Dunedin New Zealand
| | - B. L. Chilvers
- Aquatic and Threats Unit; Department of Conservation; Wellington New Zealand
| | - A. B. Moore
- School of Surveying; University of Otago; Dunedin New Zealand
| | - L. S. Davis
- Zoology Department; University of Otago; Dunedin New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lowther AD, Harcourt RG, Goldsworthy SD. Regional variation in trophic ecology of adult female Australian sea lions inferred from stable isotopes in whiskers. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2013. [DOI: 10.1071/wr12181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Context
The primary selective forces responsible for shaping life-history traits come from the physical and biological environment in which a species resides. Consequently, the limits of a species range may provide a useful measure of adaptive potential to environmental change. The proximity of foraging grounds to terrestrial nursing habitat constrains central-place foragers such as otariid seals in selecting breeding locations. The Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) is an endangered otariid endemic to Australia, whose northern-range extent occurs at a temperate–tropical transition zone on the western coast of Western Australia (WA).
Aims
Currently, there is a complete absence of data on the foraging ecology of Australian sea lions in WA. We sought to address this critical knowledge gap and provide data on the foraging ecology of adult female Australian sea lions at three isolated breeding colonies in western WA.
Methods
We used stable-isotope ratios of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) in the whiskers of pups as proxies to characterise feeding behaviour of 10–28% of all adult female Australian sea lions at each colony. We then compared these geographic data to (1) conspecifics at similar latitude in South Australia (SA) and (2) isotopic data collated from other studies on seabirds that inhabit the region, to place foraging behaviour of adult female Australian sea lions into context.
Key results
At the southernmost colonies in WA, individual animals were members of one of two distinct isotopic clusters that could be described by differences in δ15N and δ13C values. Individuals at the northernmost colony displayed δ15N values similar to those of seabirds in the same region. Across the study, isotope ratios of adult female Australian sea lions in western WA were between 3‰ and 5‰ lower than those observed at a colony at similar latitude in SA.
Conclusions
Gross differences in the physical oceanography between WA and SA may in part explain the differences in isotope ratios of individuals between the regions, with lower δ15N and δ13C values in WA probably reflecting the relatively depauperate conditions of the Leeuwin Current.
Implications
Potential regional differences in trophic structure should be considered when developing appropriate management plans for Australian sea lions and regional variation in the diet of Australian sea lion warrants further investigation.
Collapse
|
34
|
McIntosh RR, Kennedy CW. Morphology, sex ratio and cause of death in Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) pups. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.1071/am12037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
During a study of the demographics of the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea), the sex ratio and morphology were obtained from 128 pups at Seal Bay Conservation Park over three breeding seasons (2002–03, 2004 and 2005–06). Gross necropsies were also performed. Dead pups were small and young, averaging 8.0 and 7.0 kg in weight, and 75.2 and 71.3 cm in length, for males and females respectively, only 1.8 kg heavier and 6.7 cm longer than newborn pups. There was no sex bias in the dead pups overall or in each cause of death classification. In 49% of mortalities, cause of death could not be inferred from gross necropsy and pups appeared in good condition. In pups in which cause of death was inferred, trauma inflicted by conspecifics was the primary result in both males and females (31.6%), followed by emaciation (10.4%), stillbirth or premature birth (7.6%) and possible shark attack (1.4%). Histopathological examination of tissues and other investigations would be required to determine whether other factors, such as disease or parasitic infection, and pollutant contamination contribute to pup mortality.
Collapse
|
35
|
Shaughnessy PD, Goldsworthy SD, Burch P, Dennis TE. Pup numbers of the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) at The Pages Islands, South Australia, over two decades. AUST J ZOOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1071/zo13015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The Australian sea lion is an Australian endemic, restricted to South Australia and Western Australia, with 86% of the population in South Australia. It was listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act as Vulnerable in February 2005, and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature has listed it as Endangered. Sea lions are taken as bycatch in the gill-net fishery for school shark and gummy shark, and the risk of extinction of breeding colonies is high even from low levels of bycatch. We assessed trends in pup population size at The Pages Islands, a large breeding colony in South Australia. Pup abundance was estimated by direct counting of live and dead pups; the maximum count in each breeding season was used for trend analysis. The average of direct counts of pups in 14 breeding seasons between 1989–90 and 2009–10 was 473 (s.d. = 58.4). There was no trend in pup numbers, contrasting with two other large colonies: Seal Bay, Kangaroo Island (decreasing), and Dangerous Reef (increasing since 2000). The Australian Sea Lion Management Strategy of the Australian Fisheries Management Authority aims to reduce sea lion bycatch in the shark fishery; a key item is a fishery closure around each breeding colony in South Australia. Implementation of the closure around The Pages should lower the risk of bycatch of its sea lions with foraging areas that previously overlapped with the fishery and should allow the colony’s population size to increase.
Collapse
|
36
|
Characterization of 12 novel microsatellite loci and cross-amplification of four loci in the endangered Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea). CONSERV GENET RESOUR 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s12686-012-9788-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
37
|
|