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Zhang X, Carroll EL, Constantine R, Andrews-Goff V, Childerhouse S, Cole R, Goetz KT, Meyer C, Ogle M, Harcourt R, Stuck E, Zerbini AN, Riekkola L. Effectiveness of marine protected areas in safeguarding important migratory megafauna habitat. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 368:122116. [PMID: 39116808 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Marine protected areas (MPAs) are a commonly used management tool to safeguard marine life from anthropogenic impacts, yet their efficacy often remains untested. Evaluating how highly dynamic marine species use static MPAs is challenging but becoming more feasible with the advancement of telemetry data. Here, we focus on southern right whales (Eubalaena australis, SRWs) in the waters off Aotearoa/New Zealand, which declined from 30,000 whales to fewer than 40 mature females due to whaling. Now numbering in the low thousands, the key socializing and nursery areas for this population in the remote subantarctic islands are under the protection of different types of MPAs. However, the effectiveness of these MPAs in encompassing important whale habitat and protecting the whales from vessel traffic has not been investigated. To address this, we analyzed telemetry data from 29 SRWs tagged at the Auckland Islands between 2009 and 2022. We identified two previously unknown and currently unprotected areas that were used by the whales for important behaviors such as foraging, socializing, or resting. Additionally, by combining whale locations and vessel tracking data (2020-2022) during peak breeding period (June to October), we found high spatiotemporal overlap between whales and vessels within several MPAs, suggesting the whales could still be vulnerable to multiple anthropogenic stressors even when within areas designated for protection. Our results identify areas to be prioritized for future monitoring and investigation to support the ongoing recovery of this SRW population, as well as highlight the overarching importance of assessing MPA effectiveness post-implementation, especially in a changing climate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelei Zhang
- Institute of Marine Science, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Emma L Carroll
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Rochelle Constantine
- Institute of Marine Science, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand; School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Virginia Andrews-Goff
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, 203 Channel Highway, Kingston, Tasmania, 7050, Australia
| | - Simon Childerhouse
- Environmental Law Initiative, 75 Taranaki St, Te Aro, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand
| | - Rosalind Cole
- Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai, Invercargill Office, PO Box 743, Invercargill, 9840, New Zealand
| | - Kimberly T Goetz
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98115, United States
| | - Catherine Meyer
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Mike Ogle
- Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai, Takaka Office, 62 Commercial Street, Takaka, 7110, New Zealand
| | - Robert Harcourt
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, 18 Wally's Walk, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Esther Stuck
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Alexandre N Zerbini
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98115, United States; Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, & Ecosystem Studies, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, United States; Marine Ecology and Telemetry Research, Seabeck, WA, 98380, United States
| | - Leena Riekkola
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand.
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Neves J, Methion S, Díaz López B. Relationship between skin and body condition in three species of baleen whales. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2024; 159:99-115. [PMID: 39145476 DOI: 10.3354/dao03808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
The assessment of free-ranging cetacean health through the study of skin conditions using photographs has gained prominence in recent years. However, little attention has been given to the relationships between cetacean skin conditions, species, and body condition. To explore this relationship among baleen whale species along the northwestern coast of Spain, we employed a non-invasive method involving photograph analysis. In this study, we examined skin conditions (including injuries, epizoites and ectoparasites, pigmentation disorders, skin lesions, and anatomical malformations) and body condition (overall physical contours and form, as an indicator of nutritional status and health) in 3 species of whales (blue, fin, and minke whales). This methodology facilitated the identification of 29 subcategories of distinct skin conditions and an assessment of body condition over a 5 yr period (2017 to 2021). In our study, we present evidence linking hypopigmentation, protruding pieces of tissue, and tattoo-like lesions to 'Poor' body condition in the 3 baleen whale species. Fin whales exhibited a higher susceptibility to mottling (prevalence = 17.7%), while blue whales were more prone to starbursts (prevalence = 90.5%). Additionally, we found a significant relationship between skin condition diversity and individual body condition. Our findings contribute valuable information to the broader understanding of the health status of baleen whales. Further investigations are necessary to delve into the etiology of the documented skin conditions and their potential implications for individual survival. This study serves as a foundation for ongoing research aimed at advancing our comprehension of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Neves
- Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI), 36980 O Grove, Spain
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Algarve, Campus of Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Séverine Methion
- Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI), 36980 O Grove, Spain
| | - Bruno Díaz López
- Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI), 36980 O Grove, Spain
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3
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Serres A, Lin W, Liu B, Chen S, Li S. Skinny dolphins: Can poor body condition explain population decline in Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis)? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170401. [PMID: 38280614 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (IPHDs) who form resident populations along the Chinese coastline are facing a wide range of anthropogenic disturbances including intense fishing and some populations have been shown to experience a severe decline. Body condition is thought to be a good indicator of health since it is linked to survival and reproductive success. In order to better understand population trends, we investigated whether the body condition of IPHDs is poorer in populations whose status is alarming than in other populations. UAV flights were conducted from 2022 to 2023 in four locations (i.e., Sanniang Bay, Leizhou Bay, Jiangmen, and Lingding Bay) in the northern South China Sea. Body ratios were calculated using the body length and widths of IPHDs and were used to analyze differences among seasons, locations, and demographic parameters. A PCA was then used to obtain a detailed picture of the body condition composition of dolphins at each location. Results showed that dolphins from Leizhou Bay and Jiangmen were in better body condition than those from Sanniang Bay and Lingding Bay. Since populations inhabiting Sanniang Bay and Lingding Bay have been shown to experience a sharp decline, it can be hypothesized that poor body condition may have played a role in such a trend. Further investigations of the factors impacting IPHDs' body condition are needed, including monitoring of prey density, contaminant concentration, stress levels, and impacts of human activities on dolphins' behavior. In addition, the creation of a robust scoring method would allow for regular monitoring of IPHDs' body condition to inform conservation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Serres
- Marine Mammal and Marine Bioacoustics Laboratory, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Wenzhi Lin
- Marine Mammal and Marine Bioacoustics Laboratory, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Binshuai Liu
- Marine Mammal and Marine Bioacoustics Laboratory, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shenglan Chen
- Marine Mammal and Marine Bioacoustics Laboratory, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Songhai Li
- Marine Mammal and Marine Bioacoustics Laboratory, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China; The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China.
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4
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Segura-Göthlin S, Fernández A, Arbelo M, Andrada Borzollino MA, Felipe-Jiménez I, Colom-Rivero A, Fiorito C, Sierra E. Viral skin diseases in odontocete cetaceans: gross, histopathological, and molecular characterization of selected pathogens. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1188105. [PMID: 37745220 PMCID: PMC10514499 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1188105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Fifty-five skin lesions from 31 stranded cetaceans along the Canary coasts (2011-2021) were submitted to macroscopic, histological, and molecular analyses to confirm infection by cetacean poxvirus, herpesvirus and cetacean morbillivirus. They were macroscopically categorized into eight categories with respective subcategories according to their color, shape, size, and consistency. Cetacean poxvirus was detected in 54.54% of the skin lesions through real-time and conventional PCRs based on the DNA polymerase gene. Additionally, herpesvirus and morbillivirus were currently detected from 43.63 and 1.82% of the cutaneous lesions, respectively. Coinfection of poxvirus and herpesvirus was detected in nine of them (16.36%), which makes the present study the first to report coinfection by both pathogens in skin lesions in cetaceans. A plausible approach to histopathological characterization of poxvirus-and herpesvirus-positive skin lesions was established. Hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, ballooning degeneration, and intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies in vacuolized keratinocytes through the stratum spinosum were common findings in poxvirus skin lesions. Alphaherpesvirus was associated with a prominent acanthotic epidermis, moderate necrosis, multifocal dyskeratosis, and irregular keratinocytes with both cellular and nuclei pleomorphism. The common histopathological findings of both pathogens were observed in coinfection lesions. However, those associated with herpesvirus were considerably more remarkable. Relationships between molecular and microscopic findings were observed for the lesions that showed tattoo-like and tortuous patterns. Further multidisciplinary diagnostic studies of infected skin lesions are needed to understand the epidemiology of these emerging infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Segura-Göthlin
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Manuel Arbelo
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Marisa Ana Andrada Borzollino
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Idaira Felipe-Jiménez
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Ana Colom-Rivero
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Carla Fiorito
- Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CESIMAR-CONICET), Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Eva Sierra
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
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5
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Gaydos JK, St Leger J, Raverty S, Nollens H, Haulena M, Ward EJ, Emmons CK, Hanson MB, Balcomb K, Ellifrit D, Weiss MN, Giles D. Epidemiology of skin changes in endangered Southern Resident killer whales (Orcinus orca). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286551. [PMID: 37379317 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Photographic identification catalogs of individual killer whales (Orcinus orca) over time provide a tool for remote health assessment. We retrospectively examined digital photographs of Southern Resident killer whales in the Salish Sea to characterize skin changes and to determine if they could be an indicator of individual, pod, or population health. Using photographs collected from 2004 through 2016 from 18,697 individual whale sightings, we identified six lesions (cephalopod, erosions, gray patches, gray targets, orange on gray, and pinpoint black discoloration). Of 141 whales that were alive at some point during the study, 99% had photographic evidence of skin lesions. Using a multivariate model including age, sex, pod, and matriline across time, the point prevalence of the two most prevalent lesions, gray patches and gray targets, varied between pods and between years and showed small differences between stage classes. Despite minor differences, we document a strong increase in point prevalence of both lesion types in all three pods from 2004 through 2016. The health significance of this is not clear, but the possible relationship between these lesions and decreasing body condition and immunocompetence in an endangered, non-recovering population is a concern. Understanding the etiology and pathogenesis of these lesions is important to better understand the health significance of these skin changes that are increasing in prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K Gaydos
- The SeaDoc Society, Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center - Orcas Island Office, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Eastsound, Washington, United States of America
| | - Judy St Leger
- SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Stephen Raverty
- Animal Health Center, Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hendrik Nollens
- SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | | | - Eric J Ward
- Conservation Biology Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Candice K Emmons
- Conservation Biology Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - M Bradley Hanson
- Conservation Biology Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ken Balcomb
- Center for Whale Research, Friday Harbor, Washington, United States of America
| | - Dave Ellifrit
- Center for Whale Research, Friday Harbor, Washington, United States of America
| | - Michael N Weiss
- Center for Whale Research, Friday Harbor, Washington, United States of America
| | - Deborah Giles
- Center for Whale Research, Friday Harbor, Washington, United States of America
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6
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Pirotta E, Schick RS, Hamilton PK, Harris CM, Hewitt J, Knowlton AR, Kraus SD, Meyer‐Gutbrod E, Moore MJ, Pettis HM, Photopoulou T, Rolland RM, Tyack PL, Thomas L. Estimating the effects of stressors on the health, survival and reproduction of a critically endangered, long‐lived species. OIKOS 2023. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.09801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Pirotta
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | - Robert S. Schick
- Marine Geospatial Ecology Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke Univ. Durham NC USA
| | - Philip K. Hamilton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Catriona M. Harris
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | - Joshua Hewitt
- Dept of Statistical Science, Duke Univ. Durham NC USA
| | - Amy R. Knowlton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Scott D. Kraus
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Erin Meyer‐Gutbrod
- School of Earth, Ocean and Environment, Univ. of South Carolina Columbia SC USA
| | | | - Heather M. Pettis
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Theoni Photopoulou
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | | | - Peter L. Tyack
- School of Biology, Scottish Oceans Inst., Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | - Len Thomas
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
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7
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Remote and non-invasive quantification of ‘Tattoo Skin Disease-Like’ dermatopathy in endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales using drone photography. Mamm Biol 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00337-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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8
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Johnston DR, Rayment W, Dawson SM. Morphometrics and body condition of southern right whales on the calving grounds at Port Ross, Auckland Islands. Mamm Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-021-00175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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9
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Knowlton AR, Clark JS, Hamilton PK, Kraus SD, Pettis HM, Rolland RM, Schick RS. Fishing gear entanglement threatens recovery of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amy R. Knowlton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium, Central Wharf Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - James S. Clark
- Nicholas School of the Environment Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Philip K. Hamilton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium, Central Wharf Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Scott D. Kraus
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium, Central Wharf Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Heather M. Pettis
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium, Central Wharf Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Rosalind M. Rolland
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium, Central Wharf Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Robert S. Schick
- Nicholas School of the Environment Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of St Andrews St Andrews UK
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10
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Macrander AM, Brzuzy L, Raghukumar K, Preziosi D, Jones C. Convergence of emerging technologies: Development of a risk-based paradigm for marine mammal monitoring for offshore wind energy operations. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2022; 18:939-949. [PMID: 34617664 PMCID: PMC9299501 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The ability to gather real-time and near real-time data on marine mammal distribution, movement, and habitat use has advanced significantly over the past two decades. These advances have outpaced their adoption into a meaningful, risk-based assessment framework so critically needed to support society's growing demands for a transition to increased reliance on renewable energy. Marine acoustics have the capacity to detect, identify, and locate vocalizations over broad areas. Photogrammetric and image processing increases the ability to visually detect animals from surface or aerial platforms. Ecological models based on long-term observational data coupled with static and remotely sensed oceanographic data are able to predict daily and seasonal habitat suitability. Extensive monitoring around anthropogenic activities, combined with controlled experiments of exposure parameters (i.e., sound), supports better informed decisions on reducing effects. Population models and potential consequence modeling provide the ability to estimate the significance of individual and population exposure. The collective capacities of these emerging technical approaches support a risk ranking and risk management approach to monitoring and mitigating effects on marine mammals related to development activities. The monitoring paradigm related to many offshore energy-related activities, however, has long been spatially limited, situationally myopic, and operationally uncertain. A case evaluation process is used to define and demonstrate the changing paradigm of effective monitoring aimed at protecting living resources and concurrently providing increased certainty that essential activities can proceed efficiently. Recent advances in both technologies and operational approaches are examined to delineate a risk-based paradigm, driven by a diversity of regional data inputs, that is capable of meeting the imperative for timely development of offshore wind energy. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:939-949. © 2021 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Louis Brzuzy
- Shell Exploration and Production CompanyHoustonAlaskaUSA
| | | | | | - Craig Jones
- Integral Consulting Inc.Santa CruzCaliforniaUSA
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11
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Ramos EA, Landeo-Yauri S, Castelblanco-Martínez N, Arreola MR, Quade AH, Rieucau G. Drone-based photogrammetry assessments of body size and body condition of Antillean manatees. Mamm Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00228-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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12
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Assessing North Atlantic Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis) Welfare. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg2040052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Welfare assessments have been largely successful in improving management and quality of life for animals in human care. This has prompted an increased interest in their use for free-ranging wild animals to assess health, environment, and human-induced impacts that influence policy decisions. The North Atlantic Right Whale (NARW, Eubalaena glacialis) is one of the most endangered whale species. NARWs constantly face serious injuries and mortalities due to human activities, which poses both a species conservation and an individual welfare concern. Establishing a standardized welfare assessment for the NARW is a holistic way to understand the cumulative effects of anthropogenic activities at both the individual and population levels. To investigate the potential use of welfare assessments in NARWs, we performed a brief literature review to explore the history and utility of animal welfare assessments. Following the review, we developed a welfare assessment tool specific to the NARW. The goal is for biologists to apply this tool to understand NARW welfare in conjunction with research in the field. Ultimately, the information gained from this review can aid in public dissemination of the results of human impacts on NARW welfare and may help influence future conservation policies.
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13
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Crowe LM, Brown MW, Corkeron PJ, Hamilton PK, Ramp C, Ratelle S, Vanderlaan ASM, Cole TVN. In plane sight: a mark-recapture analysis of North Atlantic right whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis are most commonly observed along the eastern seaboard of North America; however, their distribution and occupancy patterns have become less predictable in the last decade. This study explored the individual right whales captured photographically from both dedicated and opportunistic sources from 2015 to 2019 in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (GSL), an area previously understudied for right whale presence. A total of 187 individuals, including reproductive females, were identified from all sources over this period. In years when more substantial survey effort occurred (2017-2019), similar numbers of individuals were sighted (mean = 133, SD = 1.5), and dedicated mark-recapture aerial surveys were highly effective at capturing almost all of the whales estimated in the region (2019: N = 137, 95% CI = 135-147). A high rate of inter-annual return was observed between all 5 study years, with 95% of the animals seen in 2019 sighted previously. Capture rates indicated potential residencies as long as 5 mo, and observed behaviors included feeding and socializing. Individuals were observed in the northern and southern GSL, regions divided by a major shipping corridor. Analyses suggest that individuals mostly moved less than 9.1 km d-1, although rates of up to 79.8 km d-1 were also calculated. The GSL is currently an important habitat for 40% of this Critically Endangered species, which underscores how crucial protection measures are in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- LM Crowe
- Integrated Statistics Under Contract to the Northeast Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - MW Brown
- Canadian Whale Institute, Welshpool, New Brunswick, Canada, E5E 1B6
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA 02110, USA
| | - PJ Corkeron
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA 02110, USA
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - PK Hamilton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA 02110, USA
| | - C Ramp
- Mingan Island Cetacean Study, St. Lambert, Québec, Canada, J4P 1T3
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Fife KY16 8LB, UK
| | - S Ratelle
- Gulf Fisheries Center, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, E1C 9B6
| | - ASM Vanderlaan
- Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, B2Y 4A2
| | - TVN Cole
- Northeast Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
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14
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Segura-Göthlin S, Fernández A, Arbelo M, Felipe-Jiménez I, Colom-Rivero A, Almunia J, Sierra E. The Validation of a Non-Invasive Skin Sampling Device for Detecting Cetacean Poxvirus. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102814. [PMID: 34679836 PMCID: PMC8532937 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The current growing social awareness of animal welfare has led to the development of welfare indicators, which are effective tools for assessing each of the integrated aspects of this multidisciplinary issue. Hence, skin diseases have been suggested as potential general health indicators for use in cetaceans. Particularly cetacean poxvirus causes distinguishable hyperpigmented “ring” or “tattoo” lesions that affect cetaceans both in the wild and in managed facilities. However, most studies have analyzed these characteristic lesions through visual appraisal, while only a few have implemented diagnostic methods to corroborate the presence of the virus. To this end, skin biopsies are usually the sampling method selected, although they are considered to be an intrusive procedure. In this study, we analyzed sloughed skin sampled with cytology cell samplers (CCSs) in 12 tattoo-like lesions from two free-ranging cetaceans stranded in the Canary Islands. We employed two different DNA extraction methods and compared the effectiveness of the device with that of biopsies. All the lesions resulted positive for cetacean poxvirus, obtaining reliable data from the use of this device. Thus, CCS is considered to be a promising non-invasive tool for further assessing skin diseases in cetaceans, particularly those under human care, without affecting their welfare. Abstract Poxvirus-like lesions are widely used as a potential health indicator in cetaceans, although for this application, corroboration of Poxvirus skin disease is imperative. Aiming to address skin biopsies intrusiveness, a preliminary investigation of a non-invasive skin sampling procedure to molecularly detect CePV-1 in 12 tattoo-like-lesions from two free-ranging stranded cetaceans in the Canary Islands was performed. Skin lesions were brushed with cytology cell samplers (CCSs) and placed into 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes with 1 mL of RNAlaterTM Stabilization Solution. For factual comparisons, DNA extractions from sloughed skin obtained with CCS and biopsies from the same lesions were accomplished with DNA Tissue Kit STM (QuickGene, Kurabo, Japan). Moreover, a second DNA extraction from sloughed skin with DNeasyTM Blood and Tissue Kit (Qiagen, Inc., Valencia, CA, USA) was performed to ascertain kit suitability for CCS. Molecular detection of CePV-1 was performed through a real-time PCR. As a result, a 91.7% and 83.3% rates of positivity were obtained with biopsies and CCS through Quickgene, respectively, compared to the rate of 100% using CCS with Qiagen. Accordingly, CCS is a reliable non-invasive sampling device to obtain sufficient genetic material to be analyzed for CePV-1 in tattoo-skin-lesions as well as for other purposes in cetaceans under human care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Segura-Göthlin
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Trasmontaña, s/n, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (S.S.-G.); (M.A.); (I.F.-J.); (A.C.-R.); (E.S.)
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Trasmontaña, s/n, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (S.S.-G.); (M.A.); (I.F.-J.); (A.C.-R.); (E.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-928-451-095
| | - Manuel Arbelo
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Trasmontaña, s/n, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (S.S.-G.); (M.A.); (I.F.-J.); (A.C.-R.); (E.S.)
| | - Idaira Felipe-Jiménez
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Trasmontaña, s/n, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (S.S.-G.); (M.A.); (I.F.-J.); (A.C.-R.); (E.S.)
| | - Ana Colom-Rivero
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Trasmontaña, s/n, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (S.S.-G.); (M.A.); (I.F.-J.); (A.C.-R.); (E.S.)
| | - Javier Almunia
- Loro Parque Foundation, Avda. Loro Parque, s/n, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Spain;
| | - Eva Sierra
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Trasmontaña, s/n, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (S.S.-G.); (M.A.); (I.F.-J.); (A.C.-R.); (E.S.)
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15
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Noren SR, Schwarz L, Robeck TR. Topographic Variations in Mobilization of Blubber in Relation to Changes in Body Mass in Short-Finned Pilot Whales ( Globicephala macrorhynchus). Physiol Biochem Zool 2021; 94:228-240. [PMID: 34010119 DOI: 10.1086/714637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractFat-level measurements used to indicate individual body condition and fitness are useful only when taken at a region along the body where fat responds to variations in caloric intake. Investigations to identify appropriate species-specific regions are limited, especially for cetaceans that have a specialized fat (blubber) that serves as an energy reserve and provides insulation. Over 18 mo, body mass of six pilot whales varied (range: 50-172 kg), and although caloric intake increased when water temperatures were lower, generally the best-fitting state-space model for length-adjusted mass was based on a single factor, caloric intake. After correcting for body length (range: 330-447 cm), the slope for blubber thickness and "blubber ring" thickness (average blubber thickness along a girth) in relation to body mass was positive and had a P value of <0.10 at six of 16 blubber measurement sites and one of five girth measurement sites, respectively. The slope for body girth (a reflection of changes in underlying blubber thickness) in relation to body mass was positive and had a lower P value ([Formula: see text]) at three of five girth measurement sites. Results indicate that blubber from the anterior insertion of the pectoral fins to the posterior insertion of the dorsal fin is the most metabolically active region. This region includes the midflank site, a location where blubber thickness measurements have historically been taken to monitor cetacean body condition. Conversely, blubber in the peduncle region was comparatively inert. These findings must be considered when measuring blubber thickness and body width (i.e., photogrammetry) to monitor the condition of free-ranging cetaceans.
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16
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Hin V, Harwood J, de Roos AM. Density dependence can obscure nonlethal effects of disturbance on life history of medium-sized cetaceans. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252677. [PMID: 34081741 PMCID: PMC8174747 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonlethal disturbance of animals can cause behavioral and physiological changes that affect individual health status and vital rates, with potential consequences at the population level. Predicting these population effects remains a major challenge in ecology and conservation. Monitoring fitness-related traits may improve detection of upcoming population changes, but the extent to which individual traits are reliable indicators of disturbance exposure is not well understood, especially for populations regulated by density dependence. Here we study how density dependence affects a population’s response to disturbance and modifies the disturbance effects on individual health and vital rates. We extend an energy budget model for a medium-sized cetacean (the long-finned pilot whale Globicephala melas) to an individual-based population model in which whales feed on a self-replenishing prey base and disturbance leads to cessation of feeding. In this coupled predator-prey system, the whale population is regulated through prey depletion and the onset of yearly repeating disturbances on the whale population at carrying capacity decreased population density and increased prey availability due to reduced top-down control. In populations faced with multiple days of continuous disturbance each year, female whales that were lactating their first calf experienced increased mortality due to depletion of energy stores. However, increased prey availability led to compensatory effects and resulted in a subsequent improvement of mean female body condition, mean age at first reproduction and higher age-specific reproductive output. These results indicate that prey-mediated density dependence can mask negative effects of disturbance on fitness-related traits and vital rates, a result with implications for the monitoring and management of marine mammal populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Hin
- Department of Theoretical and Computational Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - John Harwood
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - André M. de Roos
- Department of Theoretical and Computational Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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17
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Endoparasitic Insights of Free-Living Fin (Balaenoptera physalus), Humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) and North Atlantic Right Whales (Eubalaena glacialis) from Eastern Canadian Waters. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:682-686. [PMID: 33128727 PMCID: PMC8166656 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00298-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To date, little is still known on parasite infections affecting free-living large whale populations worldwide. Data presented should be considered as a baseline study for future monitoring surveys on endoparasites affecting whales, thereby enhancing investigations on impacts of zoonotic parasitoses not only on vulnerable or endangered baleen whale population health but also on public health. Methods The presented study is a first report on gastrointestinal parasites infecting different free-living baleen whales inhabiting East Canadian waters using non-invasive methods. Individual faecal samples from fin (n = 3; Balaenoptera physalus), humpback (n = 4; Megaptera novaeangliae) and North Atlantic right whales (n = 1; Eubalaena glacialis) were collected without animal disturbance, within their natural habitats on an ecological expedition during annual surveys in summer 2017. Faecal samples were assessed by standardized diagnostic methods, such as sodium acetate acetic formalin (SAF) technique, carbol fuchsin-stained faecal smears, Giardia/Cryptosporidium coproantigen ELISAs and were applied for further identification. Results Parasitological infections included three different potentially zoonotic parasite species, one protozoa (Entamoeba spp.) and two metazoans (Diphyllobothriidae gen. sp., Ascaridida indet.). No positive Giardia/Cryptosporidium coproantigen ELISA could be found in the studied whales. Conclusion This study adds to the current knowledge of intestinal and zoonotic parasite infections of vulnerable to partly endangered free-ranging baleen whales. Only few or no parasitological studies exist for these whale species, usually dealing with only one dead specimen. We call for more research in this field especially for the importance of conservation of free-living marine mammals using non-invasive methods.
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18
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Ierardi JL, Veloso A, Mancia A. Transcriptome analysis of cadmium exposure in kidney fibroblast cells of the North Atlantic Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 242:108946. [PMID: 33285320 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2020.108946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
An 8X15k oligonucleotide microarray was developed consisting of 2334 Eubalaena glacialis probes and 2166 Tursiops truncatus probes and used to measure the effects, at transcriptomic level, of cadmium exposure in right whale kidney fibroblast cells. Cells were exposed to three concentrations (1 μM, 0.1 μM, and 0.01 μM) of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) for three exposure times (1, 4, and 24 h). Cells exposed to 1 μM CdCl2 for 4 h and 24 h showed upregulated genes involved in protection from metal toxicity and oxidative stress, protein renaturation, apoptosis inhibition, as well as several regulators of cellular processes. Downregulated genes represented a suite of functions including cell proliferation, transcription regulation, actin polymerization, and stress fiber synthesis. The collection of differentially expressed genes in this study support proposed mechanisms of cadmium-induced apoptosis such as ubiquitin proteasome system disruption, Ca2+ homeostasis interference, mitochondrial membrane potential collapse, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and cell cycle arrest. The results also have confirmed the right whale microarray as a reproducible tool in measuring differentiated gene expression that could be a valuable asset for transcriptome analysis of other baleen whales and potential health assessment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessalyn L Ierardi
- Graduate Program of Marine Biology, College of Charleston, 205 Fort Johnson Rd, Charleston, SC 29412, USA
| | - Artur Veloso
- Graduate Program of Marine Biology, College of Charleston, 205 Fort Johnson Rd, Charleston, SC 29412, USA
| | - Annalaura Mancia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Center, Medical University of South Carolina, 331 Fort Johnson Rd, Charleston, SC 29412, USA; Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via L. Borsari 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy.
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19
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Moore MJ, Rowles TK, Fauquier DA, Baker JD, Biedron I, Durban JW, Hamilton PK, Henry AG, Knowlton AR, McLellan WA, Miller CA, Pace RM, Pettis HM, Raverty S, Rolland RM, Schick RS, Sharp SM, Smith CR, Thomas L, der Hoop JMV, Ziccardi MH. REVIEW: Assessing North Atlantic right whale health: threats, and development of tools critical for conservation of the species. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2021; 143:205-226. [PMID: 33629663 DOI: 10.3354/dao03578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Whaling has decimated North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis (NARW) since the 11th century and southern right whales E. australis (SRW) since the 19th century. Today, NARWs are Critically Endangered and decreasing, whereas SRWs are recovering. We review NARW health assessment literature, NARW Consortium databases, and efforts and limitations to monitor individual and species health, survival, and fecundity. Photographs are used to track individual movement and external signs of health such as evidence of vessel and entanglement trauma. Post-mortem examinations establish cause of death and determine organ pathology. Photogrammetry is used to assess growth rates and body condition. Samples of blow, skin, blubber, baleen and feces quantify hormones that provide information on stress, reproduction, and nutrition, identify microbiome changes, and assess evidence of infection. We also discuss models of the population consequences of multiple stressors, including the connection between human activities (e.g. entanglement) and health. Lethal and sublethal vessel and entanglement trauma have been identified as major threats to the species. There is a clear and immediate need for expanding trauma reduction measures. Beyond these major concerns, further study is needed to evaluate the impact of other stressors, such as pathogens, microbiome changes, and algal and industrial toxins, on NARW reproductive success and health. Current and new health assessment tools should be developed and used to monitor the effectiveness of management measures and will help determine whether they are sufficient for a substantive species recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Moore
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole MA 02543, USA Co-authors' addresses given in a supplement; www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/d143p205_supp.pdf
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20
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Pace RM, Williams R, Kraus SD, Knowlton AR, Pettis HM. Cryptic mortality of North Atlantic right whales. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Richard M. Pace
- Northeast Fisheries Science Center Woods Hole Massachusetts USA
| | | | - Scott D. Kraus
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Amy R. Knowlton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Heather M. Pettis
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium Boston Massachusetts USA
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21
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Jackson JA, Kennedy A, Moore M, Andriolo A, Bamford CCG, Calderan S, Cheeseman T, Gittins G, Groch K, Kelly N, Leaper R, Leslie MS, Lurcock S, Miller BS, Richardson J, Rowntree V, Smith P, Stepien E, Stowasser G, Trathan P, Vermeulen E, Zerbini AN, Carroll EL. Have whales returned to a historical hotspot of industrial whaling? The pattern of southern right whale Eubalaena australis recovery at South Georgia. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2020. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Around 176500 whales were killed in the sub-Antarctic waters off South Georgia (South Atlantic) between 1904 and 1965. In recent decades, whales have once again become summer visitors, with the southern right whale (SRW) the most commonly reported species until 2011. Here, we assess the distribution, temporal pattern, health status and likely prey of SRWs in these waters, combining observations from a summertime vessel-based expedition to South Georgia, stable isotope data collected from SRWs and putative prey and sightings reports collated by the South Georgia Museum. The expedition used directional acoustics and visual surveys to localise whales and collected skin biopsies and photo-IDs. During 76 h of visual observation effort over 19 expedition days, SRWs were encountered 15 times (~31 individuals). Photo-IDs, combined with publicly contributed images from commercial vessels, were reconciled and quality-controlled to form a catalogue of 6 fully (i.e. both sides) identified SRWs and 26 SRWs identified by either left or right sides. No photo-ID matches were found with lower-latitude calving grounds, but 3 whales had gull lesions supporting a direct link with Península Valdés, Argentina. The isotopic position of SRWs in the South Georgia food web suggests feeding on a combination of copepod and krill species. Opportunistic reports of SRW sightings and associated group sizes remain steady over time, while humpback whales provide a strong contrast, with increased sighting rates and group sizes seen since 2013. These data suggest a plateau in SRWs and an increasing humpback whale presence in South Georgia waters following the cessation of whaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- JA Jackson
- British Antarctic Survey, High Cross, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK For a full list of affiliations see Supplement 1 at www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/n043p323_supp1.pdf
| | | | | | | | - CCG Bamford
- British Antarctic Survey, High Cross, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK For a full list of affiliations see Supplement 1 at www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/n043p323_supp1.pdf
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - G Stowasser
- British Antarctic Survey, High Cross, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK For a full list of affiliations see Supplement 1 at www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/n043p323_supp1.pdf
| | - P Trathan
- British Antarctic Survey, High Cross, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK For a full list of affiliations see Supplement 1 at www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/n043p323_supp1.pdf
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22
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Soledade Lemos L, Burnett JD, Chandler TE, Sumich JL, Torres LG. Intra‐ and inter‐annual variation in gray whale body condition on a foraging ground. Ecosphere 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Soledade Lemos
- Geospatial Ecology of Marine Megafauna Lab Marine Mammal Institute, Fisheries and Wildlife Department Oregon State University Corvallis Oregon 97331 USA
| | - Jonathan D. Burnett
- Aerial Information Systems Laboratory Forest Engineering, Resources and Management Department Oregon State University Corvallis Oregon 97331 USA
| | - Todd E. Chandler
- Geospatial Ecology of Marine Megafauna Lab Marine Mammal Institute, Fisheries and Wildlife Department Oregon State University Corvallis Oregon 97331 USA
| | - James L. Sumich
- Fisheries and Wildlife Department Oregon State University Corvallis Oregon 97331 USA
| | - Leigh G. Torres
- Geospatial Ecology of Marine Megafauna Lab Marine Mammal Institute, Fisheries and Wildlife Department Oregon State University Corvallis Oregon 97331 USA
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23
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Alves F, Dromby M, Baptista V, Ferreira R, Correia AM, Weyn M, Valente R, Froufe E, Rosso M, Sousa-Pinto I, Dinis A, Dias E, Teodósio MA. Ecophysiological traits of highly mobile large marine predators inferred from nucleic acid derived indices. Sci Rep 2020; 10:4752. [PMID: 32179865 PMCID: PMC7075925 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61769-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-derived indices such as RNA/DNA ratios have been successfully applied as ecophysiological indicators to assess growth, nutritional condition and health status in marine organisms given that they provide a measure of tissue protein reserves, which is known to vary depending on changes in the environment. Yet, the use of these biochemical indices on highly mobile large predators is scarce. In this study, we tested the applicability of using nucleic acids to provide insights on the ecophysiological traits of two marine mammal species (common bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales) and explored potential related factors (species, sex, season, and residency pattern), using skin tissue (obtained from biopsy darts) of apparently healthy and adult free-ranging animals. Significantly higher RNA/DNA ratios were obtained for bottlenose dolphins (p < 0.001), and for visitor pilot whales when compared with resident pilot whales (p = 0.001). No significant changes were found between the sexes. Based on the percentile approach, the samples contain individuals in a general good condition (as the 10th percentile is not closer to the mean than the 75th percentile), suggesting that the studied region of Macaronesia may be considered an adequate habitat. The combination of this effective tool with genetic sexing and photographic-identification provided an overall picture of ecosystem health, and although with some limitations and still being a first approach, it has the applicability to be used in other top predators and ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Alves
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ARDITI, Madeira, Portugal. .,OOM - Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal.
| | - M Dromby
- OOM - Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal.,Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal
| | - V Baptista
- CCMAR - Centre of Marine Sciences, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal
| | - R Ferreira
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ARDITI, Madeira, Portugal.,OOM - Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - A M Correia
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Matosinhos, Portugal.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto - FCUP, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Weyn
- OOM - Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal.,Marine Biology Research Group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - R Valente
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Matosinhos, Portugal.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto - FCUP, Porto, Portugal
| | - E Froufe
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - M Rosso
- CIMA Research Foundation, Savona, Italy
| | - I Sousa-Pinto
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Matosinhos, Portugal.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto - FCUP, Porto, Portugal
| | - A Dinis
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ARDITI, Madeira, Portugal.,OOM - Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - E Dias
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - M A Teodósio
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal.,CCMAR - Centre of Marine Sciences, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal
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24
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Bergstrom ML, Kalbitzer U, Campos FA, Melin AD, Emery Thompson M, Fedigan LM. Non-invasive estimation of the costs of feeding competition in a neotropical primate. Horm Behav 2020; 118:104632. [PMID: 31759943 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.104632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A key goal in behavioral ecology is to investigate the factors influencing the access to food resources and energetic condition of females, which are strong predictors of their reproductive success. We aimed to investigate how ecological factors, social factors, and reproductive state are associated with energetic condition in a wild neotropical primate using non-invasive measures. We first assessed and compared urinary C-peptide levels (uCP), the presence of urinary ketones (uKet), and behaviorally assessed energy balance (bEB) in female white-faced capuchin monkeys (Cebus imitator) living in Santa Rosa, Costa Rica. Then, we assessed how these measures were associated with feeding competition, dominance rank, and reproductive state. As predicted, uCP and bEB were positively associated with each other, and bEB was negatively associated with uKet. However, we did not find a relationship between uCP and uKet. Females showed lower uCP and bEB values during periods of intense feeding competition, but this relationship was not dependent on dominance rank. Furthermore, rank was not directly associated with uCP and bEB. Urinary ketones, on the other hand, were only produced in the most adverse conditions: by low-ranking, lactating females during periods of intense feeding competition. Behavioral strategies are assumed to maximize reproductive success and not energetic condition per se, which might explain why rank was not generally associated with energetic condition in our study population. This highlights the importance of considering potential differences between reproductive success and proxies of reproductive success, such as energetic condition or food intake, when investigating predictions of socioecological models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L Bergstrom
- Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Urs Kalbitzer
- Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Anthropology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Fernando A Campos
- Department of Anthropology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Amanda D Melin
- Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Linda M Fedigan
- Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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25
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Groch KR, Catão-Dias JL, Groch KR, Kolesnikovas CKM, de Castilho PV, Moreira LMP, Barros CRMB, Medeiros CRMD, Renault-Braga EP, Sansone M, Díaz-Delgado J. Pathologic findings and causes of death in southern right whales Eubalaena australis, Brazil. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2019; 137:23-31. [PMID: 31777396 DOI: 10.3354/dao03424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Southern right whales Eubalaena australis (SRWs) migrate to southern Brazil for breeding and calving from June through November. Overall, there is scarce knowledge on health status and pathologic conditions in SRWs. We report the pathologic and molecular investigation results of 8 SRWs that were necropsied between 2010 and 2017 within a breeding and calving ground in Santa Catarina state, Brazil. The animals were of various ages (7 newborns/calves, 1 adult) and sex (3 females, 5 males). Five whales stranded dead; 3 stranded alive and died shortly after (n = 2) or were euthanized (n = 1). The causes of stranding and/or death were neonatal respiratory distress syndrome with meconium aspiration (n = 3) with concomitant congenital hepatopathy in one of them; trauma of unknown origin (n = 3), infectious renal and lung disease with presumed sepsis (n = 1), and euthanasia (n = 1). Three animals were PCR-positive for cetacean morbillivirus; one of them also had morbilliviral antigen in kidney via immunohistochemical analysis. These results, integrating novel findings and a published report, contribute to the pathology knowledge of this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kátia R Groch
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil
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Karns BL, Ewing RY, Schaefer AM. Evaluation of body mass index as a prognostic indicator from two rough-toothed dolphin ( Steno bredanensis) mass strandings in Florida. Ecol Evol 2019; 9:10544-10552. [PMID: 31624566 PMCID: PMC6787782 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.5574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) are a common mass stranding species in Florida. These large stranding events typically include a small number of sick or injured individuals and a much larger number of healthy individuals, making rapid triage essential. Little data exist on rehabilitation outcomes, and historically, successful outcomes are limited. Furthermore, very little data exist on the feeding habits and dietary needs of this species. This study compared morphology and body mass index (BMI) in two rough-toothed dolphin mass stranding events in Florida: August 2004 (n = 36) and March 2005 (n = 32). The two groups were significantly different in morphologic measurements, with age and gender-adjusted intake BMI significantly (p < .01) different (2004 = 0.34 ± 0.02; 2005 = 0.41 ± 0.02) between groups. Ten animals from 2005 had weights tracked throughout the rehabilitation process and demonstrated an initial drop in BMI followed by an increase and a plateau prior to release. When comparing initial BMI by stranding outcome, individuals that were rehabilitated and released had a significantly (p = .03) higher BMI than individuals who were euthanized. However, there was no difference between dolphins that died of natural causes (p = .56) and animals successfully rehabilitated. Analysis of BMI can be a useful marker in triage during a stranding, when resources are limited to identify individuals most likely to survive, as well as in determining the appropriate body condition for release. The data reported here can provide guidance on evaluating the nutritive status on this uncommon species that would otherwise be difficult to obtain among wild populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bree L. Karns
- University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric ScienceMiamiFLUSA
- Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response ProgramNational Marine Fisheries ServiceNational Oceanic and Atmospheric AdministrationMiamiFLUSA
| | - Ruth Y. Ewing
- Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response ProgramNational Marine Fisheries ServiceNational Oceanic and Atmospheric AdministrationMiamiFLUSA
| | - Adam M. Schaefer
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic InstituteFlorida Atlantic UniversityFt PierceFLUSA
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Sharp SM, McLellan WA, Rotstein DS, Costidis AM, Barco SG, Durham K, Pitchford TD, Jackson KA, Daoust PY, Wimmer T, Couture EL, Bourque L, Frasier T, Frasier B, Fauquier D, Rowles TK, Hamilton PK, Pettis H, Moore MJ. Gross and histopathologic diagnoses from North Atlantic right whale Eubalaena glacialis mortalities between 2003 and 2018. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2019; 135:1-31. [PMID: 31219432 DOI: 10.3354/dao03376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Seventy mortalities of North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis (NARW) were documented between 2003 and 2018 from Florida, USA, to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada. These included 29 adults, 14 juveniles, 10 calves, and 17 of unknown age class. Females represented 65.5% (19/29) of known-sex adults. Fourteen cases had photos only; 56 carcasses received external examinations, 44 of which were also necropsied. Cause of death was determined in 43 cases, of which 38 (88.4%) were due to anthropogenic trauma: 22 (57.9%) from entanglement, and 16 (42.1%) from vessel strike. Gross and histopathologic lesions associated with entanglement were often severe and included deep lacerations caused by constricting line wraps around the flippers, flukes, and head/mouth; baleen plate mutilation; chronic extensive bone lesions from impinging line, and traumatic scoliosis resulting in compromised mobility in a calf. Chronically entangled whales were often in poor body condition and had increased cyamid burden, reflecting compromised health. Vessel strike blunt force injuries included skull and vertebral fractures, blubber and muscle contusions, and large blood clots. Propeller-induced wounds often caused extensive damage to blubber, muscle, viscera, and bone. Overall prevalence of NARW entanglement mortalities increased from 21% (1970-2002) to 51% during this study period. This demonstrates that despite mitigation efforts, entanglements and vessel strikes continue to inflict profound physical trauma and suffering on individual NARWs. These cumulative mortalities are also unsustainable at the population level, so urgent and aggressive intervention is needed to end anthropogenic mortality in this critically endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Sharp
- International Fund for Animal Welfare, Yarmouth Port, MA 02675, USA Addresses for other authors are given in the supplements at www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/d135p001_supp.pdf
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Hoop JM, Nousek‐McGregor AE, Nowacek DP, Parks SE, Tyack P, Madsen PT. Foraging rates of ram‐filtering North Atlantic right whales. Funct Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Douglas P. Nowacek
- Nicholas School of the Environment & Pratt School of Engineering Duke University Beaufort North California
| | - Susan E. Parks
- Biology Department Syracuse University Syracuse New York
| | - Peter Tyack
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | - Peter Teglberg Madsen
- Department of Bioscience Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
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Blanchard KR, Kalyanasundaram A, Henry C, Commons KA, Brym MZ, Skinner K, Surles JG, Kendall RJ. Identification of eyeworm ( Oxyspirura petrowi) and caecal worm ( Aulonocephalus pennula) infection levels in Northern bobwhite quail ( Colinus virginianus) of the Rolling Plains, TX using a mobile research laboratory: Implications for regional surveillance. BIOMOLECULAR DETECTION AND QUANTIFICATION 2019; 17:100092. [PMID: 31516845 PMCID: PMC6732722 DOI: 10.1016/j.bdq.2019.100092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few decades, there has been a decline in Northern bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus) throughout their native range. While there are various factors that may be influencing this decline, it is suggested that parasites should be taken into consideration as a potential contributor in the Rolling Plains Ecoregion. High prevalence of the eyeworm (Oxyspirura petrowi) and caecal worm (Aulonocephalus pennula) in bobwhite of this region, coupled with a continuous decline, creates a need to assess infection through alternative methods for regional surveillance. Previous studies have developed a qPCR method and mobile research laboratory as an option for nonlethal procedures. However, there is still a need for standardization of these techniques. Therefore, this study builds on previous protocols to develop an application that considers factors that may influence qPCR results. In this study, cloacal swabs are collected from bobwhite in three locations throughout the Rolling Plains and scaled based on amount of feces present on the swab. This data is compared to qPCR standards as a limit of quantification for both eyeworm and caecal worm to define parasitic infection levels. Binary logistic regressions confirm that the probability of detection increases for both eyeworm (Odds Ratio: 2.3738; 95% Confidence Interval: [1.7804, 3.1649]) and caecal worm (Odds Ratio: 2.8516; 95% Confidence Interval: [2.2235, 3.6570]) as swab score increases. Infection levels for eyeworm and caecal worm are based on the generated cycle threshold value averages of qPCR standards. Based on the results of this study, this method can be applied in the mobile research laboratory to quantitatively assess regional parasitic infection in bobwhite throughout the Rolling Plains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendall R. Blanchard
- The Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Texas Tech University, P.O. Box 43290, Lubbock, TX, 79409-3290, USA
| | - Aravindan Kalyanasundaram
- The Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Texas Tech University, P.O. Box 43290, Lubbock, TX, 79409-3290, USA
| | - Cassandra Henry
- The Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Texas Tech University, P.O. Box 43290, Lubbock, TX, 79409-3290, USA
| | - Kelly A. Commons
- The Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Texas Tech University, P.O. Box 43290, Lubbock, TX, 79409-3290, USA
| | - Matthew Z. Brym
- The Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Texas Tech University, P.O. Box 43290, Lubbock, TX, 79409-3290, USA
| | - Kalin Skinner
- The Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Texas Tech University, P.O. Box 43290, Lubbock, TX, 79409-3290, USA
| | - James G. Surles
- The Department of Mathematics and Statistics, P.O. Box 41042, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, 79409-1042, USA
| | - Ronald J. Kendall
- The Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Texas Tech University, P.O. Box 43290, Lubbock, TX, 79409-3290, USA
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Ganley LC, Brault S, Mayo CA. What we see is not what there is: estimating North Atlantic right whale Eubalaena glacialis local abundance. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2019. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Leone AB, Bonanno Ferraro G, Boitani L, Blasi MF. Skin marks in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) interacting with artisanal fishery in the central Mediterranean Sea. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211767. [PMID: 30721248 PMCID: PMC6363217 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin marks occur frequently in many cetacean species across the globe revealing a broad spectrum of causes, including social interactions, infectious diseases and injuries produced by anthropogenic factors. The current study used photo-id data from 2005-2014 to estimate the skin mark pattern on resident bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from the Aeolian Archipelago (Italy). Thirteen skin mark types were identified and their origin, prevalence and permanence time were examined. The pattern of skin marks was assessed for the abundance, richness, distribution and severity in six body regions and compared among age classes, sex and degree of dolphins' interaction with trammel nets (DIN). Our results showed higher prevalence, abundance, richness and distribution of skin marks in adults than in the younger age classes, with the exception of black marks and white ring lesions. The prevalence and abundance of skin marks were higher in males than females, with the exception of scratches and white patches. Moreover, gunshot wounds, mutilations and irregular dorsal fin edges were found only on adult males. Since males showed higher DIN than females and, in dolphins with higher DIN, skin marks were more abundant and frequently distributed in different body regions, the skin mark pattern in regard to DIN seems to be sex-related. The more severe marks were observed on adults, males and dolphins with higher DIN, namely skin disorder, tooth rake marks, small shallow indentations, deep indentations and mutilations. On the contrary, the severity of scratches, white patches and dark ring lesions was higher in females than males, but not significantly related to DIN and age of the individuals. Our results showed that photo-id data provide an efficient and cost-effective approach to document the occurrence of skin marks in free-ranging bottlenose dolphin populations, a critical step toward understanding the cause and supporting the conservation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luigi Boitani
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University “La Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
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32
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Sacristán C, Esperón F, Ewbank AC, Díaz-Delgado J, Ferreira-Machado E, Costa-Silva S, Sánchez-Sarmiento AM, Groch KR, Neves E, Pereira Dutra GH, Gravena W, Ferreira Da Silva VM, Marcondes MCC, Castaldo Colosio A, Cremer MJ, Carvalho VL, O Meirelles AC, Marigo J, Catão-Dias JL. Novel herpesviruses in riverine and marine cetaceans from South America. Acta Trop 2019; 190:220-227. [PMID: 30465743 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Herpesvirus (HV) infections in cetaceans are frequently associated with skin and mucosal lesions. Although HV infections have been reported worldwide, their occurrence in southern Atlantic marine mammals is still poorly understood. We tested skin, oral and genital mucosal beta-actin PCR-positive samples from 109 free-ranging Brazilian cetaceans using a universal herpesvirus DNA polymerase PCR. Herpesvirus-positive skin samples from a Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis), a dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima), a Bolivian river dolphin (Inia boliviensis), and a lingual sample from an Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis) were histologically evaluated. Additional tissue samples from these animals were also PCR-positive for HV, including a novel sequence obtained from the dwarf sperm whale's stomach and mesenteric lymph node. Four novel HV species were detected in the Guiana dolphin (one), the dwarf sperm whale (two) and the Bolivian river dolphin (one). The cutaneous lesions (marked, focally extensive, chronic proliferative dermatitis) of the Guiana dolphin and the Bolivian river dolphin were similar to previous HV reports in cetaceans, despite the absence of intranuclear inclusion bodies. This is the largest HV survey in South American cetaceans and the first detection of HV infection in riverine dolphins worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Sacristán
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fernando Esperón
- Group of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Animal Health Research Centre (INIA-CISA), Valdeolmos, Madrid, 28130, Spain
| | - Ana Carolina Ewbank
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Josué Díaz-Delgado
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Ferreira-Machado
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Samira Costa-Silva
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Angélica María Sánchez-Sarmiento
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Kátia R Groch
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Elena Neves
- Group of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Animal Health Research Centre (INIA-CISA), Valdeolmos, Madrid, 28130, Spain
| | | | - Waleska Gravena
- Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia, Manaus, 69067-375, AM, Brazil; Instituto de Saúde e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Coari, 69460-000, AM, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Marta J Cremer
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação de Tetrápodes Marinhos e Costeiros, Universidade da Região de Joinville, São Francisco do Sul, 89240-000, SC, Brazil
| | - Vitor L Carvalho
- Associação de Pesquisa e Preservação de Ecossistemas Aquáticos, Caucaia, 61627-210, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Juliana Marigo
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Catão-Dias
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-270, SP, Brazil
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Dolman SJ, Brakes P. Sustainable Fisheries Management and the Welfare of Bycaught and Entangled Cetaceans. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:287. [PMID: 30525047 PMCID: PMC6262414 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidental capture of cetaceans and other protected marine wildlife in fishing gear has significant welfare implications. Many thousands of cetaceans are bycaught in fishing gear in European waters and hundreds of thousands die globally. We can expect many more to survive, but suffer from such interactions. As marine policy focuses on "population level" impact assessments and "sustainability" of fishing to preserve fish populations, the impacts to the bycaught individual, and their wider social group, are often largely underestimated, despite the large numbers affected. The wide range of recorded injuries, including abrasions, cuts, bruising, and broken bones, along with the potential for panic associated with forced submersion, indicate that the welfare of bycaught cetaceans is, individually and collectively, very poor. Commercial fishing is the last human activity targeting wildlife (fish) on a grand scale where slaughter includes incidental killing of other large sapient wildlife on such a regular basis. Here, we review the compelling evidence of the short and long term welfare impacts of bycatch, and the progress made toward implementation of measures to understand and solve this significant welfare issue. We argue that policy decisions surrounding fishing do not adequately consider cetacean bycatch, including welfare impacts. Ultimately, there are welfare issues in all bycatch situations and suffering cannot plausibly be reduced without preventing bycatch. The well-documented welfare implications provide a strong argument for zero tolerance of cetacean bycatch and provide a compelling case for immediate action in fisheries where bycatch is taking place. The only way to reduce the suffering of bycaught cetaceans is to decrease, or ideally eliminate, the number of animals caught in fishing gear. Uncertainties around the scale of bycatch should not delay management, even where individual bycatch estimates are considered "sustainable." Lack of monitoring of sub-lethal impacts on populations may result in flawed impact assessments. We urge that animal welfare considerations should become an integral part of management decision-making in relation to bycatch globally. Enhanced, robust and transparent management systems are urgently required for the range of fisheries within which cetacean bycatch occurs, with the aim to better document and most importantly, work toward eliminating cetacean bycatch altogether.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Dolman
- Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC), Chippenham, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa Brakes
- Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC), Chippenham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, United Kingdom
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Agreement between Repeated Subjective Visual Evaluations of Body Condition of St. Lawrence Beluga Whale ( Delphinapterus leucas) Carcasses Using a Visual Analog Scale. J Wildl Dis 2018; 55:518-521. [PMID: 30339091 DOI: 10.7589/2018-04-105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The determination of body condition is a fundamental component of an evaluation during postmortem examinations of cetaceans. Three veterinarians experienced in beluga postmortem techniques subjectively evaluated 62 carcasses of beluga whales ( Delphinapterus leucas) in duplicate, using a visual analog scale. The result of evaluation and scoring was repeatable in cachectic animals and animals in very good condition but did not capture the continuum of body condition determinations between the obvious visual conditions.
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Narazaki T, Isojunno S, Nowacek DP, Swift R, Friedlaender AS, Ramp C, Smout S, Aoki K, Deecke VB, Sato K, Miller PJO. Body density of humpback whales (Megaptera novaengliae) in feeding aggregations estimated from hydrodynamic gliding performance. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200287. [PMID: 30001369 PMCID: PMC6042725 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Many baleen whales undertake annual fasting and feeding cycles, resulting in substantial changes in their body condition, an important factor affecting fitness. As a measure of lipid-store body condition, tissue density of a few deep diving marine mammals has been estimated using a hydrodynamic glide model of drag and buoyancy forces. Here, we applied the method to shallow-diving humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in North Atlantic and Antarctic feeding aggregations. High-resolution 3-axis acceleration, depth and speed data were collected from 24 whales. Measured values of acceleration during 5 s glides were fitted to a hydrodynamic glide model to estimate unknown parameters (tissue density, drag term and diving gas volume) in a Bayesian framework. Estimated species-average tissue density (1031.6 ± 2.1 kg m-3, ±95% credible interval) indicates that humpback whale tissue is typically negatively buoyant although there was a large inter-individual variation ranging from 1025.2 to 1043.1 kg m-3. The precision of the individual estimates was substantially finer than the variation across different individual whales, demonstrating a progressive decrease in tissue density throughout the feeding season and comparably high lipid-store in pregnant females. The drag term (CDAm-1) was estimated to be relatively high, indicating a large effect of lift-related induced drag for humpback whales. Our results show that tissue density of shallow diving baleen whales can be estimated using the hydrodynamic gliding model, although cross-validation with other techniques is an essential next step. This method for estimating body condition is likely to be broadly applicable across a range of aquatic animals and environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Narazaki
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Saana Isojunno
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas P. Nowacek
- Nicholas School of the Environment and Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Rene Swift
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Ari S. Friedlaender
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America
| | - Christian Ramp
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
- Mingan Island Cetacean Study, Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, Québec, Canada
| | - Sophie Smout
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Kagari Aoki
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
| | - Volker B. Deecke
- Department of Science, Natural Resources and Outdoor Studies, University of Cumbria, Ambleside, United Kingdom
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
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Jayson S, Harding L, Michaels CJ, Tapley B, Hedley J, Goetz M, Barbon A, Garcia G, Lopez J, Flach E. Development of a body condition score for the mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax). Zoo Biol 2018; 37:196-205. [PMID: 29655202 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 02/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The Critically Endangered mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax) has undergone drastic population decline due to habitat loss, hunting, invasive species, and chytridiomycosis. In response, several partner institutions initiated a conservation breeding program. It is important to maintain the captive population in good health. Therefore the program partners have recommended establishment of protocols for health examination of the species, including body condition assessment. Visual body condition scoring is a useful means to assess body condition in zoo animals for which regular bodyweight measurements are impractical or associated with capture-related stress. In this study, the authors developed a visual body condition score for the mountain chicken frog based on an ordinal categorical scale from 1 to 5 (1 = lowest body condition, 5 = highest body condition) using anatomical features that vary with total body energy reserves. Veterinary staff, animal managers, keepers, researchers, and students subsequently used the body condition score to assign scores to 98 mountain chicken frogs (41 male, 57 female) aged between 8 months and 12 years housed in five zoos in the UK and Jersey between February and March 2016. Body condition scores showed moderate (rho = 0.54; males) to strong (rho = 0.6; females) correlation with the scaled mass index, an objective measure of total energy reserves. The majority of pairwise comparisons between scores showed slight to substantial intra-observer agreement (93.8%) and slight to almost perfect inter-observer agreement (97.2%). Cases of poor agreement were likely due to limited observer experience working with the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Jayson
- Zoological Society of London, London Zoo, Regent's Park, London.,The Royal Veterinary College, London
| | - Luke Harding
- Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, Paignton, Devon
| | | | - Benjamin Tapley
- Zoological Society of London, London Zoo, Regent's Park, London
| | | | - Matthias Goetz
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Jersey Zoo, Trinity, Jersey
| | - Alberto Barbon
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Jersey Zoo, Trinity, Jersey
| | | | | | - Edmund Flach
- Zoological Society of London, London Zoo, Regent's Park, London
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37
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Fearnbach H, Durban JW, Ellifrit DK, Balcomb KC. Using aerial photogrammetry to detect changes in body condition of endangered southern resident killer whales. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2018. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Root-Gutteridge H, Cusano DA, Shiu Y, Nowacek DP, Van Parijs SM, Parks SE. A lifetime of changing calls: North Atlantic right whales, Eubalaena glacialis, refine call production as they age. Anim Behav 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2017.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Temporal and Regional Variability in the Skin Microbiome of Humpback Whales along the Western Antarctic Peninsula. Appl Environ Microbiol 2018; 84:AEM.02574-17. [PMID: 29269499 PMCID: PMC5812929 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02574-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The skin is the first line of defense between an animal and its environment, and disruptions in skin-associated microorganisms can be linked to an animal's health and nutritional state. To better understand the skin microbiome of large whales, high-throughput sequencing of partial small subunit rRNA genes was used to study the skin-associated bacteria of 89 seemingly healthy humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) sampled along the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) during early (2010) and late (2013) austral summers. Six core groups of bacteria were present in 93% or more of all humpback skin samples. A shift was observed in the average relative abundances of these core bacteria over time, with the emergence of four additional core groups of bacteria that corresponded to a decrease in water temperature, possibly caused by season- or foraging-related changes in skin biochemistry that influenced microbial growth, or other temporal factors. The skin microbiome differed between whales sampled at several regional locations along the WAP, suggesting that environmental factors or population may also influence the whale skin microbiome. Overall, the skin microbiome of humpback whales appears to provide insight into animal- and environment-related factors and may serve as a useful indicator for animal health or ecosystem alterations. IMPORTANCE The microbiomes of wild animals are currently understudied but may provide information about animal health and/or animal-environment interactions. In the largest sampling of any marine mammal microbiome, this study demonstrates conservation in the skin microbiome of 89 seemingly healthy humpback whales sampled in the Western Antarctic Peninsula, with shifts in the bacterial community composition related to temporal and regional variability. This study is important because it suggests that the skin microbiome of humpback whales could provide insight into animal nutritional or seasonal/environment-related factors, which are becoming increasingly important to recognize due to unprecedented rates of climate change and anthropogenic impact on ocean ecosystems.
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Meyer-Gutbrod EL, Greene CH. Uncertain recovery of the North Atlantic right whale in a changing ocean. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2018; 24:455-464. [PMID: 29084379 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.13929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Human activities have placed populations of many endangered species at risk and mitigation efforts typically focus on reducing anthropogenic sources of mortality. However, failing to recognize the additional role of environmental factors in regulating birth and mortality rates can lead to erroneous demographic analyses and conclusions. The North Atlantic right whale population is currently the focus of conservation efforts aimed at reducing mortality rates associated with ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear. Consistent monitoring of the population since 1980 has revealed evidence that climate-associated changes in prey availability have played an important role in the population's recovery. The considerable interdecadal differences observed in population growth coincide with remote Arctic and North Atlantic oceanographic processes that link to the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. Here, we build capture-recapture models to quantify the role of prey availability on right whale demographic transitional probabilities and use a corresponding demographic model to project population growth rates into the next century. Contrary to previous predictions, the right whale population is projected to recover in the future as long as prey availability and mortality rates remain within the ranges observed during 1980-2012. However, recent events indicate a northward range shift in right whale prey, potentially resulting in decreased prey availability and/or an expansion of right whale habitat into unprotected waters. An annual increase in the number of whale deaths comparable to that observed during the summer 2017 mass mortality event may cause a decline to extinction even under conditions of normal prey availability. This study highlights the importance of understanding the oceanographic context for observed population changes when evaluating the efficacy of conservation management plans for endangered marine species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L Meyer-Gutbrod
- Marine Science Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Charles H Greene
- Ocean Ecosystems and Resources Program, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Rolland RM, McLellan WA, Moore MJ, Harms CA, Burgess EA, Hunt KE. Fecal glucocorticoids and anthropogenic injury and mortality in North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2017. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Chernova OF, Shpak OV, Kiladze AB, Rozhnov VV. Epidermal Molting in the Bowhead Whale Balaena mysticetus. BIOL BULL+ 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359017050065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Pace RM, Corkeron PJ, Kraus SD. State-space mark-recapture estimates reveal a recent decline in abundance of North Atlantic right whales. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:8730-8741. [PMID: 29152173 PMCID: PMC5677501 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis Müller 1776) present an interesting problem for abundance and trend estimation in marine wildlife conservation. They are long lived, individually identifiable, highly mobile, and one of the rarest of cetaceans. Individuals are annually resighted at different rates, primarily due to varying stay durations among several principal habitats within a large geographic range. To date, characterizations of abundance have been produced that use simple accounting procedures with differing assumptions about mortality. To better characterize changing abundance of North Atlantic right whales between 1990 and 2015, we adapted a state–space formulation with Jolly‐Seber assumptions about population entry (birth and immigration) to individual resighting histories and fit it using empirical Bayes methodology. This hierarchical model included accommodation for the effect of the substantial individual capture heterogeneity. Estimates from this approach were only slightly higher than published accounting procedures, except for the most recent years (when recapture rates had declined substantially). North Atlantic right whales' abundance increased at about 2.8% per annum from median point estimates of 270 individuals in 1990 to 483 in 2010, and then declined to 2015, when the final estimate was 458 individuals (95% credible intervals 444–471). The probability that the population's trajectory post‐2010 was a decline was estimated at 99.99%. Of special concern was the finding that reduced survival rates of adult females relative to adult males have produced diverging abundance trends between sexes. Despite constraints in recent years, both biological (whales' distribution changing) and logistical (fewer resources available to collect individual photo‐identifications), it is still possible to detect this relatively recent, small change in the population's trajectory. This is thanks to the massive dataset of individual North Atlantic right whale identifications accrued over the past three decades. Photo‐identification data provide biological information that allows more informed inference on the status of this species.
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Kershaw JL, Sherrill M, Davison NJ, Brownlow A, Hall AJ. Evaluating morphometric and metabolic markers of body condition in a small cetacean, the harbor porpoise ( Phocoena phocoena). Ecol Evol 2017; 7:3494-3506. [PMID: 28515885 PMCID: PMC5433969 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian body condition is an important individual fitness metric as it affects both survival and reproductive success. The ability to accurately measure condition has key implications for predicting individual and population health, and therefore monitoring the population‐level effects of changing environments. No consensus currently exists on the best measure to quantitatively estimate body condition in many species, including cetaceans. Here, two measures of body condition were investigated in the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). First, the most informative morphometric body condition index was identified. The mass/length2 ratio was the most appropriate morphometric index of 10 indices tested, explaining 50% of the variation in condition in stranded, male porpoises with different causes of death and across age classes (n = 291). Mass/length2 was then used to evaluate a second measure, blubber cortisol concentration, as a metabolic condition marker. Cortisol is the main glucocorticoid hormone involved in the regulation of lipolysis and overall energy balance in mammals, and concentrations could provide information on physiological state. Blubber cortisol concentrations did not significantly vary around the girth (n = 20), but there was significant vertical stratification through the blubber depth with highest concentrations in the innermost layer. Concentrations in the dorsal, outermost layer were representative of concentrations through the full blubber depth, showed variation by sex and age class, and were negatively correlated with mass/length2. Using this species as a model for live cetaceans from which standard morphometric measurements cannot be taken, but from which blubber biopsy samples are routinely collected, cortisol concentrations in the dorsal, outermost blubber layer could potentially be used as a biomarker of condition in free‐ranging animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L Kershaw
- Sea Mammal Research Unit Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews St Andrews Fife UK
| | - Meredith Sherrill
- Sea Mammal Research Unit Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews St Andrews Fife UK
| | - Nicholas J Davison
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme SAC Veterinary Services Drummondhill Inverness UK
| | - Andrew Brownlow
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme SAC Veterinary Services Drummondhill Inverness UK
| | - Ailsa J Hall
- Sea Mammal Research Unit Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews St Andrews Fife UK
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Pettis HM, Rolland RM, Hamilton PK, Knowlton AR, Burgess EA, Kraus SD. Body condition changes arising from natural factors and fishing gear entanglements in North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2017. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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46
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van der Hoop JM, Corkeron P, Henry AG, Knowlton AR, Moore MJ. Predicting lethal entanglements as a consequence of drag from fishing gear. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 115:91-104. [PMID: 27923466 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.11.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Large whales are frequently entangled in fishing gear and sometimes swim while carrying gear for days to years. Entangled whales are subject to additional drag forces requiring increased thrust power and energy expenditure over time. To classify entanglement cases and aid potential disentanglement efforts, it is useful to know how long an entangled whale might survive, given the unique configurations of the gear they are towing. This study establishes an approach to predict drag forces on fishing gear that entangles whales, and applies this method to ten North Atlantic right whale cases to estimate the resulting increase in energy expenditure and the critical entanglement duration that could lead to death. Estimated gear drag ranged 11-275N. Most entanglements were resolved before critical entanglement durations (mean±SD 216±260days) were reached. These estimates can assist real-time development of disentanglement action plans and U.S. Federal Serious Injury assessments required for protected species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M van der Hoop
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology-Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Joint Program in Oceanography and Applied Ocean Science and Engineering, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA.
| | - Peter Corkeron
- NOAA Fisheries, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Allison G Henry
- NOAA Fisheries, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Amy R Knowlton
- New England Aquarium, Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA
| | - Michael J Moore
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
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van der Hoop J, Corkeron P, Moore M. Entanglement is a costly life-history stage in large whales. Ecol Evol 2016; 7:92-106. [PMID: 28070278 PMCID: PMC5213775 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals store energy to balance deficits in natural cycles; however, unnatural events can also lead to unbalanced energy budgets. Entanglement in fishing gear is one example of an unnatural but relatively common circumstance that imposes energetic demands of a similar order of magnitude and duration of life‐history events such as migration and pregnancy in large whales. We present two complementary bioenergetic approaches to estimate the energy associated with entanglement in North Atlantic right whales, and compare these estimates to the natural energetic life history of individual whales. Differences in measured blubber thicknesses and estimated blubber volumes between normal and entangled, emaciated whales indicate between 7.4 × 1010 J and 1.2 × 1011 J of energy are consumed during the course to death of a lethal entanglement. Increased thrust power requirements to overcome drag forces suggest that when entangled, whales require 3.95 × 109 to 4.08 × 1010 J more energy to swim. Individuals who died from their entanglements performed significantly more work (energy expenditure × time) than those that survived; entanglement duration is therefore critical in determining whales’ survival. Significant sublethal energetic impacts also occur, especially in reproductive females. Drag from fishing gear contributes up to 8% of the 4‐year female reproductive energy budget, delaying time of energetic equilibrium (to restore energy lost by a particular entanglement) for reproduction by months to years. In certain populations, chronic entanglement in fishing gear can be viewed as a costly unnatural life‐history stage, rather than a rare or short‐term incident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie van der Hoop
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology-Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Joint Program in Oceanography/Applied Ocean Science and Engineering Cambridge MA USA; Biology Department Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Woods Hole MA USA
| | - Peter Corkeron
- NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center Woods Hole MA USA
| | - Michael Moore
- Biology Department Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Woods Hole MA USA
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48
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Christiansen F, Dujon AM, Sprogis KR, Arnould JPY, Bejder L. Noninvasive unmanned aerial vehicle provides estimates of the energetic cost of reproduction in humpback whales. Ecosphere 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.1468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fredrik Christiansen
- Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - Antoine M. Dujon
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Warrnambool Campus Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Kate R. Sprogis
- Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - John P. Y. Arnould
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Burwood Campus Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Lars Bejder
- Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
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49
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Schick RS, Kraus SD, Rolland RM, Knowlton AR, Hamilton PK, Pettis HM, Thomas L, Harwood J, Clark JS. Effects of Model Formulation on Estimates of Health in Individual Right Whales (Eubalaena glacialis). ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 875:977-85. [PMID: 26611058 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2981-8_121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Right whales are vulnerable to many sources of anthropogenic disturbance including ship strikes, entanglement with fishing gear, and anthropogenic noise. The effect of these factors on individual health is unclear. A statistical model using photographic evidence of health was recently built to infer the true or hidden health of individual right whales. However, two important prior assumptions about the role of missing data and unexplained variance on the estimates were not previously assessed. Here we tested these factors by varying prior assumptions and model formulation. We found sensitivity to each assumption and used the output to make guidelines on future model formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Schick
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), The Observatory, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Fife, KY16 9LZ, UK.
| | - Scott D Kraus
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA, 02110, USA.
| | - Rosalind M Rolland
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA, 02110, USA.
| | - Amy R Knowlton
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA, 02110, USA.
| | - Philip K Hamilton
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA, 02110, USA.
| | - Heather M Pettis
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA, 02110, USA.
| | - Len Thomas
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), The Observatory, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Fife, KY16 9LZ, UK.
| | - John Harwood
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), The Observatory, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Fife, KY16 9LZ, UK.
| | - James S Clark
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.
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50
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Knowlton AR, Robbins J, Landry S, McKenna HA, Kraus SD, Werner TB. Effects of fishing rope strength on the severity of large whale entanglements. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2016; 30:318-328. [PMID: 26183819 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Entanglement in fixed fishing gear affects whales worldwide. In the United States, deaths of North Atlantic right (Eubalaena glacialis) and humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) have exceeded management limits for decades. We examined live and dead whales entangled in fishing gear along the U.S. East Coast and the Canadian Maritimes from 1994 to 2010. We recorded whale species, age, and injury severity and determined rope polymer type, breaking strength, and diameter of the fishing gear. For the 132 retrieved ropes from 70 cases, tested breaking strength range was 0.80-39.63 kN (kiloNewtons) and the mean was 11.64 kN (SD 8.29), which is 26% lower than strength at manufacture (range 2.89-53.38 kN, mean = 15.70 kN [9.89]). Median rope diameter was 9.5 mm. Right and humpback whales were found in ropes with significantly stronger breaking strengths at time of manufacture than minke whales (Balaenoptera acuturostrata) (19.30, 17.13, and 10.47 mean kN, respectively). Adult right whales were found in stronger ropes (mean 34.09 kN) than juvenile right whales (mean 15.33 kN) and than all humpback whale age classes (mean 17.37 kN). For right whales, severity of injuries increased since the mid 1980s, possibly due to changes in rope manufacturing in the mid 1990s that resulted in production of stronger ropes at the same diameter. Our results suggest that broad adoption of ropes with breaking strengths of ≤ 7.56 kN (≤ 1700 lbsf) could reduce the number of life-threatening entanglements for large whales by at least 72%, and yet could provide sufficient strength to withstand the routine forces involved in many fishing operations. A reduction of this magnitude would achieve nearly all the mitigation legally required for U.S. stocks of North Atlantic right and humpback whales. Ropes with reduced breaking strength should be developed and tested to determine the feasibility of their use in a variety of fisheries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy R Knowlton
- New England Aquarium, Central Wharf, Boston, MA, 02110, U.S.A
| | - Jooke Robbins
- Center for Coastal Studies, 5 Holway Avenue, Provincetown, MA, 02657, U.S.A
| | - Scott Landry
- Center for Coastal Studies, 5 Holway Avenue, Provincetown, MA, 02657, U.S.A
| | | | - Scott D Kraus
- New England Aquarium, Central Wharf, Boston, MA, 02110, U.S.A
| | - Timothy B Werner
- New England Aquarium, Central Wharf, Boston, MA, 02110, U.S.A
- Department of Biology, Boston University, 5 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA, 02215, U.S.A
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