Oman National Centre for Statistics; Information
Statistical Year Book Journal Article
In: vol. Issue 45, no. 390, pp. 447, 2017.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, artisanal fisheries, commercial catch, dhow, Fisheries, Gill net, Oman, Sea of Oman
@article{,
title = {Statistical Year Book},
author = {Oman National Centre for Statistics and Information},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
volume = {Issue 45},
number = {390},
pages = {447},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, artisanal fisheries, commercial catch, dhow, Fisheries, Gill net, Oman, Sea of Oman},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Jefferson, T.,Smith, B.D.,Braulik, G.,Perrin, W.
Sousa chinensis Book
e.T82031633A82031644. Downloaded on 10 December 2017., 2017.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Bycatch, conservation status, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Sousa plumbea, Threat assessment
@book{,
title = {Sousa chinensis},
author = {Jefferson, T.,Smith, B.D.,Braulik, G.,Perrin, W.},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
journal = {The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species},
number = {126},
publisher = {e.T82031633A82031644. Downloaded on 10 December 2017.},
abstract = {Vulnerable: Justification:
The only available population trend estimate for S. chinensis is an estimated 2.46% annual decline in the size of the subpopulation in HK/PRE (Huang et al. 2012), where there are a number of marine parks and reserves in place for dolphin protection, and where the Hong Kong authorities have put more effort into impact assessment and management than in any other part of the species’ range (see Jefferson et al. 2009). The situation elsewhere appears to be more dire, with fisheries bycatch being a nearly-universal threat. Population reductions of at least 3.7% per annum (see below for information that human-caused mortality rates of 3.7% would lead to a 30% decline in abundance over three generations) can therefore be inferred over most of the species’ range, due to known incidental mortality from intensive fishing effort using entangling gears, and ongoing habitat loss and degradation due to coastal development. Vessel collisions and environmental contamination appear to be factors as well, in at least some parts of the range. The above inference is supported in several areas by direct and/or indirect evidence, including documentation of bycatch, the intensive use of gillnets and other fishing gears known to entangle small cetaceans, interviews with fishermen who use entangling gears, and the abandonment of areas of previous occupancy (see Xu et al. 2015).
The Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin therefore qualifies for Vulnerable A3cd+4cd, based on an inferred population size reduction, where subcriterion c is interpreted as quality of habitat, and subcriterion d (actual or potential levels of exploitation) includes fisheries bycatch. We can infer a population reduction of greater than or equal to 30% over three generations (75 years), from approximately 1960 in the past to 2035 in the future. This takes into account that the main causes of the suspected/inferred decline in population size, bycatch and habitat destruction/degradation, have not ceased and are not well understood throughout most of the species’ range. Other than in Hong Kong (and to a lesser extent Taiwan), there have been virtually no conservation actions taken to address these threats, and available evidence suggests that they will continue and may even escalate in the future. The assessment of S. chinensis as Vulnerable based on criterion A3cd+4cd applies, regardless of whether or not the Bangladesh/eastern India animals are included, because it is based on population trends, rather than absolute numbers or a declining range.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bycatch, conservation status, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Sousa plumbea, Threat assessment},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
Vulnerable: Justification:
The only available population trend estimate for S. chinensis is an estimated 2.46% annual decline in the size of the subpopulation in HK/PRE (Huang et al. 2012), where there are a number of marine parks and reserves in place for dolphin protection, and where the Hong Kong authorities have put more effort into impact assessment and management than in any other part of the species’ range (see Jefferson et al. 2009). The situation elsewhere appears to be more dire, with fisheries bycatch being a nearly-universal threat. Population reductions of at least 3.7% per annum (see below for information that human-caused mortality rates of 3.7% would lead to a 30% decline in abundance over three generations) can therefore be inferred over most of the species’ range, due to known incidental mortality from intensive fishing effort using entangling gears, and ongoing habitat loss and degradation due to coastal development. Vessel collisions and environmental contamination appear to be factors as well, in at least some parts of the range. The above inference is supported in several areas by direct and/or indirect evidence, including documentation of bycatch, the intensive use of gillnets and other fishing gears known to entangle small cetaceans, interviews with fishermen who use entangling gears, and the abandonment of areas of previous occupancy (see Xu et al. 2015).
The Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin therefore qualifies for Vulnerable A3cd+4cd, based on an inferred population size reduction, where subcriterion c is interpreted as quality of habitat, and subcriterion d (actual or potential levels of exploitation) includes fisheries bycatch. We can infer a population reduction of greater than or equal to 30% over three generations (75 years), from approximately 1960 in the past to 2035 in the future. This takes into account that the main causes of the suspected/inferred decline in population size, bycatch and habitat destruction/degradation, have not ceased and are not well understood throughout most of the species’ range. Other than in Hong Kong (and to a lesser extent Taiwan), there have been virtually no conservation actions taken to address these threats, and available evidence suggests that they will continue and may even escalate in the future. The assessment of S. chinensis as Vulnerable based on criterion A3cd+4cd applies, regardless of whether or not the Bangladesh/eastern India animals are included, because it is based on population trends, rather than absolute numbers or a declining range.
The only available population trend estimate for S. chinensis is an estimated 2.46% annual decline in the size of the subpopulation in HK/PRE (Huang et al. 2012), where there are a number of marine parks and reserves in place for dolphin protection, and where the Hong Kong authorities have put more effort into impact assessment and management than in any other part of the species’ range (see Jefferson et al. 2009). The situation elsewhere appears to be more dire, with fisheries bycatch being a nearly-universal threat. Population reductions of at least 3.7% per annum (see below for information that human-caused mortality rates of 3.7% would lead to a 30% decline in abundance over three generations) can therefore be inferred over most of the species’ range, due to known incidental mortality from intensive fishing effort using entangling gears, and ongoing habitat loss and degradation due to coastal development. Vessel collisions and environmental contamination appear to be factors as well, in at least some parts of the range. The above inference is supported in several areas by direct and/or indirect evidence, including documentation of bycatch, the intensive use of gillnets and other fishing gears known to entangle small cetaceans, interviews with fishermen who use entangling gears, and the abandonment of areas of previous occupancy (see Xu et al. 2015).
The Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin therefore qualifies for Vulnerable A3cd+4cd, based on an inferred population size reduction, where subcriterion c is interpreted as quality of habitat, and subcriterion d (actual or potential levels of exploitation) includes fisheries bycatch. We can infer a population reduction of greater than or equal to 30% over three generations (75 years), from approximately 1960 in the past to 2035 in the future. This takes into account that the main causes of the suspected/inferred decline in population size, bycatch and habitat destruction/degradation, have not ceased and are not well understood throughout most of the species’ range. Other than in Hong Kong (and to a lesser extent Taiwan), there have been virtually no conservation actions taken to address these threats, and available evidence suggests that they will continue and may even escalate in the future. The assessment of S. chinensis as Vulnerable based on criterion A3cd+4cd applies, regardless of whether or not the Bangladesh/eastern India animals are included, because it is based on population trends, rather than absolute numbers or a declining range.
Jog, Ketki,Sule, Mihir,Bopardikar, Isha,Patankar, Vardhan,Sutaria, Dipani
Living with dolphins: Local ecological knowledge and perceptions of small cetaceans along the Sindhudurg coastline of Maharashtra, India Journal Article
In: Marine Mammal Science, vol. 34, no. 128, pp. 488-498, 2017, ISBN: 1748-7692.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Bycatch, cetacean-fisheries interactions, competition, Finless Porpoise, humpback dolphin, India, local ecological knowledge, Marine mammals, Neophocaena phocaenoides, perceptions, Sousa plumbea
@article{,
title = {Living with dolphins: Local ecological knowledge and perceptions of small cetaceans along the Sindhudurg coastline of Maharashtra, India},
author = {Jog, Ketki,Sule, Mihir,Bopardikar, Isha,Patankar, Vardhan,Sutaria, Dipani},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.12466},
issn = {1748-7692},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
journal = {Marine Mammal Science},
volume = {34},
number = {128},
pages = {488-498},
abstract = {Two near shore small cetaceans occur commonly along the Maharashtra coast, the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and Indo Pacific finless porpoise. These cetaceans frequently interact with fisheries in this region due to overlap in space and resource use. Besides stranding records, little ecological information is available about these species from Maharashtra. We conducted 143 semistructured interviews to document local ecological knowledge and community perceptions of small cetaceans in 30 coastal fishing villages in Sindhudurg. Perceptions of finless porpoises were largely neutral, whereas humpback dolphins were negative. A classification regression tree (CART) analysis (root node error: 60%) showed that the annual cost of gear damage was an important predictor variable of humpback dolphin perceptions, followed by occupation (gear type) and age. Entanglements were reported for both species in large and small gill nets, and shore seines. Perceived net damage and catch loss due to humpback dolphins was six times greater than that of finless porpoises. However, finless porpoises were reportedly more frequently entangled in gear than humpback dolphins. We provide an insight into the perceptions of cetaceans in the local community and the fisheries-cetacean interactions that shape them.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bycatch, cetacean-fisheries interactions, competition, Finless Porpoise, humpback dolphin, India, local ecological knowledge, Marine mammals, Neophocaena phocaenoides, perceptions, Sousa plumbea},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Two near shore small cetaceans occur commonly along the Maharashtra coast, the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and Indo Pacific finless porpoise. These cetaceans frequently interact with fisheries in this region due to overlap in space and resource use. Besides stranding records, little ecological information is available about these species from Maharashtra. We conducted 143 semistructured interviews to document local ecological knowledge and community perceptions of small cetaceans in 30 coastal fishing villages in Sindhudurg. Perceptions of finless porpoises were largely neutral, whereas humpback dolphins were negative. A classification regression tree (CART) analysis (root node error: 60%) showed that the annual cost of gear damage was an important predictor variable of humpback dolphin perceptions, followed by occupation (gear type) and age. Entanglements were reported for both species in large and small gill nets, and shore seines. Perceived net damage and catch loss due to humpback dolphins was six times greater than that of finless porpoises. However, finless porpoises were reportedly more frequently entangled in gear than humpback dolphins. We provide an insight into the perceptions of cetaceans in the local community and the fisheries-cetacean interactions that shape them.
Kershaw, Francine,Carvalho, Inês,Loo, Jacqueline,Pomilla, Cristina,Best, Peter B.,Findlay, Ken P.,Cerchio, Salvatore,Collins, Tim,Engel, Marcia H.,Minton, Gianna,Ersts, Peter,Barendse, Jaco,Kotze, P. G. H.,Razafindrakoto, Yvette,Ngouessono, Solange,Meÿer, Michael,Thorton, Meredith,Rosenbaum, Howard C.
Multiple processes drive genetic structure of humpback whale ( Journal Article
In: Molecular Ecology, no. 131, pp. n/a-n/a, 2017, ISBN: 1365-294X.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: behaviour, Humpback Whale, International Whaling Commission, megaptera novaeangliae, population assessment, population genetics, population identity, population structure, Southern Hemisphere, wildlife management
@article{,
title = {Multiple processes drive genetic structure of humpback whale (},
author = {Kershaw, Francine,Carvalho, Inês,Loo, Jacqueline,Pomilla, Cristina,Best, Peter B.,Findlay, Ken P.,Cerchio, Salvatore,Collins, Tim,Engel, Marcia H.,Minton, Gianna,Ersts, Peter,Barendse, Jaco,Kotze, P. G. H.,Razafindrakoto, Yvette,Ngouessono, Solange,Meÿer, Michael,Thorton, Meredith,Rosenbaum, Howard C.},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mec.13943},
issn = {1365-294X},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
journal = {Molecular Ecology},
number = {131},
pages = {n/a-n/a},
abstract = {Elucidating patterns of population structure for species with complex life histories, and disentangling the processes driving such patterns, remains a significant analytical challenge. Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) populations display complex genetic structures that have not been fully resolved at all spatial scales. We generated a data set of nuclear markers for 3575 samples spanning the seven breeding stocks and substocks found in the South Atlantic and western and northern Indian Oceans. For the total sample, and males and females separately, we assessed genetic diversity, tested for genetic differentiation between putative populations and isolation by distance, estimated the number of genetic clusters without a priori population information and estimated rates of gene flow using maximum-likelihood and Bayesian approaches. At the ocean basin scale, structure is governed by geographical distance (IBD P < 0.05) and female fidelity to breeding areas, in line with current understanding of the drivers of broadscale population structure. Consistent with previous studies, the Arabian Sea breeding stock was highly genetically differentiated (FST 0.034–0.161; P < 0.01 for all comparisons). However, the breeding stock boundary between west South Africa and east Africa was more porous than expected based on genetic differentiation, cluster and geneflow analyses. Instances of male fidelity to breeding areas and relatively high rates of dispersal for females were also observed between the three substocks in the western Indian Ocean. The relationships between demographic units and current management boundaries may have ramifications for assessments of the status and continued protections of populations still in recovery from commercial whaling.},
keywords = {behaviour, Humpback Whale, International Whaling Commission, megaptera novaeangliae, population assessment, population genetics, population identity, population structure, Southern Hemisphere, wildlife management},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Elucidating patterns of population structure for species with complex life histories, and disentangling the processes driving such patterns, remains a significant analytical challenge. Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) populations display complex genetic structures that have not been fully resolved at all spatial scales. We generated a data set of nuclear markers for 3575 samples spanning the seven breeding stocks and substocks found in the South Atlantic and western and northern Indian Oceans. For the total sample, and males and females separately, we assessed genetic diversity, tested for genetic differentiation between putative populations and isolation by distance, estimated the number of genetic clusters without a priori population information and estimated rates of gene flow using maximum-likelihood and Bayesian approaches. At the ocean basin scale, structure is governed by geographical distance (IBD P < 0.05) and female fidelity to breeding areas, in line with current understanding of the drivers of broadscale population structure. Consistent with previous studies, the Arabian Sea breeding stock was highly genetically differentiated (FST 0.034–0.161; P < 0.01 for all comparisons). However, the breeding stock boundary between west South Africa and east Africa was more porous than expected based on genetic differentiation, cluster and geneflow analyses. Instances of male fidelity to breeding areas and relatively high rates of dispersal for females were also observed between the three substocks in the western Indian Ocean. The relationships between demographic units and current management boundaries may have ramifications for assessments of the status and continued protections of populations still in recovery from commercial whaling.
Moazzam, Mohammed,Nawaz, Rab
Arabian Humpback and Baleen Whale sightings along the Pakistan Coast: Information Generated Through WWF Pakistan’s Fishing Crew Observer Programme Technical Report
no. 168, 2017, ISBN: SC/67A/CMP/05.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan
@techreport{,
title = {Arabian Humpback and Baleen Whale sightings along the Pakistan Coast: Information Generated Through WWF Pakistan’s Fishing Crew Observer Programme},
author = {Moazzam, Mohammed,Nawaz, Rab},
issn = { SC/67A/CMP/05},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {168},
pages = {16},
abstract = {Historical records and Soviet whaling data indicate the presence of baleen whales off the coast of
Pakistan up to 1965, but since then only a handful of strandings and opportunistic sightings
confirm their ongoing presence in the region. Between 2012 and 2016, observations of freeswimming
and entangled whales were recorded by fishing vessel crew members trained under a
bycatch observer scheme coordinated by WWF Pakistan. The scheme, which started with two
observers in 2012, now involves 75 participating vessels. Reported baleen whale observations
increased from none in 2012, to 16 in 2015. In 2016, 47 sightings of baleen whales were
recorded, including 12 confirmed sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, three sightings of
Bryde’s and 32 sightings of baleen whales that could not be identified to species level due to lack
of adequate photographic or video evidence. Sightings reported from 2012 through 2016 are
summarized and plotted, providing insight into the current distribution of Arabian Sea humpback
whales and other baleen whale species in the region. The authors recommend the continuation of
the programme, and suggest that it could serve as a useful model for crew-based reporting
schemes in a region where dedicated cetacean surveys are difficult to conduct, but fisheries are
widespread and active.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Historical records and Soviet whaling data indicate the presence of baleen whales off the coast of
Pakistan up to 1965, but since then only a handful of strandings and opportunistic sightings
confirm their ongoing presence in the region. Between 2012 and 2016, observations of freeswimming
and entangled whales were recorded by fishing vessel crew members trained under a
bycatch observer scheme coordinated by WWF Pakistan. The scheme, which started with two
observers in 2012, now involves 75 participating vessels. Reported baleen whale observations
increased from none in 2012, to 16 in 2015. In 2016, 47 sightings of baleen whales were
recorded, including 12 confirmed sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, three sightings of
Bryde’s and 32 sightings of baleen whales that could not be identified to species level due to lack
of adequate photographic or video evidence. Sightings reported from 2012 through 2016 are
summarized and plotted, providing insight into the current distribution of Arabian Sea humpback
whales and other baleen whale species in the region. The authors recommend the continuation of
the programme, and suggest that it could serve as a useful model for crew-based reporting
schemes in a region where dedicated cetacean surveys are difficult to conduct, but fisheries are
widespread and active.
Pakistan up to 1965, but since then only a handful of strandings and opportunistic sightings
confirm their ongoing presence in the region. Between 2012 and 2016, observations of freeswimming
and entangled whales were recorded by fishing vessel crew members trained under a
bycatch observer scheme coordinated by WWF Pakistan. The scheme, which started with two
observers in 2012, now involves 75 participating vessels. Reported baleen whale observations
increased from none in 2012, to 16 in 2015. In 2016, 47 sightings of baleen whales were
recorded, including 12 confirmed sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, three sightings of
Bryde’s and 32 sightings of baleen whales that could not be identified to species level due to lack
of adequate photographic or video evidence. Sightings reported from 2012 through 2016 are
summarized and plotted, providing insight into the current distribution of Arabian Sea humpback
whales and other baleen whale species in the region. The authors recommend the continuation of
the programme, and suggest that it could serve as a useful model for crew-based reporting
schemes in a region where dedicated cetacean surveys are difficult to conduct, but fisheries are
widespread and active.
NOAA
Endangered and Threatened Species; Identification of 14 Distinct Population Segments of the Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) and Revision of Species-wide Listing
2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, breeding grounds, conservation status, feeding grounds, Humpback Whale, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, population status, USA
@{,
title = {Endangered and Threatened Species; Identification of 14 Distinct Population Segments of the Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) and Revision of Species-wide Listing},
author = {NOAA},
issn = {Docket No. 130708594-6598-03},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
number = {183},
pages = {247},
publisher = {Department of Commerce},
abstract = {We, NMFS, issue a final determination to revise the listing status of the
humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
We divide the globally listed endangered species into 14 distinct population segments
(DPS), remove the current species-level listing, and in its place list four DPSs as
endangered and one DPS as threatened. Based on their current statuses, the remaining
nine DPSs do not warrant listing. At this time, we find that critical habitat is not
determinable for the three listed DPSs that occur in U.S. waters (Western North Pacific,
Mexico, Central America); we will consider designating critical habitat for these three
DPSs in a separate rulemaking. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, breeding grounds, conservation status, feeding grounds, Humpback Whale, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, population status, USA},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {}
}
We, NMFS, issue a final determination to revise the listing status of the
humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
We divide the globally listed endangered species into 14 distinct population segments
(DPS), remove the current species-level listing, and in its place list four DPSs as
endangered and one DPS as threatened. Based on their current statuses, the remaining
nine DPSs do not warrant listing. At this time, we find that critical habitat is not
determinable for the three listed DPSs that occur in U.S. waters (Western North Pacific,
Mexico, Central America); we will consider designating critical habitat for these three
DPSs in a separate rulemaking.
humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
We divide the globally listed endangered species into 14 distinct population segments
(DPS), remove the current species-level listing, and in its place list four DPSs as
endangered and one DPS as threatened. Based on their current statuses, the remaining
nine DPSs do not warrant listing. At this time, we find that critical habitat is not
determinable for the three listed DPSs that occur in U.S. waters (Western North Pacific,
Mexico, Central America); we will consider designating critical habitat for these three
DPSs in a separate rulemaking.
NOAA
Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals and Dolphin-Safe Tuna Products Journal Article
In: Federal Register, vol. 81, no. 421, pp. 3, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Bycatch, Fisheries, India, Marine mammals, NIO, Observer programmes, Oman, Pakistan, reporting scheme, Tanzania, tuna fishery
@article{,
title = {Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals and Dolphin-Safe Tuna Products },
author = {NOAA},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Federal Register},
volume = {81},
number = {421},
pages = {3},
abstract = { The Assistant Administrator
for Fisheries, NMFS, (Assistant
Administrator) has issued a
determination, under the Dolphin
Protection Consumer Information Act
(DPCIA), of regular and significant
mortality and serious injury of dolphins
in gillnet fisheries harvesting tuna by
vessels flagged under the Governments
of India, Iran, Mozambique, Pakistan,
Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka,
Tanzania, the United Arab Emirates,
and Yemen. This determination triggers
additional documentation requirements
for tuna product from those fisheries
that is exported from or offered for sale
in the United States, including that such
tuna must be accompanied by a written
statement executed by an observer
participating in a national or
international program acceptable to the
Assistant Administrator, in addition to
such statement by the captain of the
vessel, that certifies that no dolphins
were killed or seriously injured in the
sets or other gear deployments in which
the tuna were caught and certain other
required information regarding dolphin
interactions and segregation of tuna.
These determinations were based on
review of scientific information and,
when available, documentary evidence
submitted by the relevant government. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bycatch, Fisheries, India, Marine mammals, NIO, Observer programmes, Oman, Pakistan, reporting scheme, Tanzania, tuna fishery},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The Assistant Administrator
for Fisheries, NMFS, (Assistant
Administrator) has issued a
determination, under the Dolphin
Protection Consumer Information Act
(DPCIA), of regular and significant
mortality and serious injury of dolphins
in gillnet fisheries harvesting tuna by
vessels flagged under the Governments
of India, Iran, Mozambique, Pakistan,
Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka,
Tanzania, the United Arab Emirates,
and Yemen. This determination triggers
additional documentation requirements
for tuna product from those fisheries
that is exported from or offered for sale
in the United States, including that such
tuna must be accompanied by a written
statement executed by an observer
participating in a national or
international program acceptable to the
Assistant Administrator, in addition to
such statement by the captain of the
vessel, that certifies that no dolphins
were killed or seriously injured in the
sets or other gear deployments in which
the tuna were caught and certain other
required information regarding dolphin
interactions and segregation of tuna.
These determinations were based on
review of scientific information and,
when available, documentary evidence
submitted by the relevant government.
for Fisheries, NMFS, (Assistant
Administrator) has issued a
determination, under the Dolphin
Protection Consumer Information Act
(DPCIA), of regular and significant
mortality and serious injury of dolphins
in gillnet fisheries harvesting tuna by
vessels flagged under the Governments
of India, Iran, Mozambique, Pakistan,
Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka,
Tanzania, the United Arab Emirates,
and Yemen. This determination triggers
additional documentation requirements
for tuna product from those fisheries
that is exported from or offered for sale
in the United States, including that such
tuna must be accompanied by a written
statement executed by an observer
participating in a national or
international program acceptable to the
Assistant Administrator, in addition to
such statement by the captain of the
vessel, that certifies that no dolphins
were killed or seriously injured in the
sets or other gear deployments in which
the tuna were caught and certain other
required information regarding dolphin
interactions and segregation of tuna.
These determinations were based on
review of scientific information and,
when available, documentary evidence
submitted by the relevant government.
Allison, C.
IWC individual catch database Version 6.1 Journal Article
In: vol. Version 18 July, 2016, no. 6, 2016.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Blue whale, Bryde’s whale, catch, Distribution, Humpback Whale, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, whaling
@article{,
title = {IWC individual catch database Version 6.1},
author = {Allison, C.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
volume = {Version 18 July, 2016},
number = {6},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Blue whale, Bryde’s whale, catch, Distribution, Humpback Whale, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Ponnampalam, L.
No Danger in Sight? An Observation of Sperm Whales (Physeter macrocephalus) in Marguerite Formation off Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Journal Article
In: Aquatic Mammals, vol. 42, no. 432, pp. 162-167, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: bottlenose dolphin, Grampus griseus, Interspecies interactions, Oman, Physeter macrocephalus, predation, Risso's dolphin, Social behaviour, sperm whale, tursiops sp
@article{,
title = {No Danger in Sight? An Observation of Sperm Whales (Physeter macrocephalus) in Marguerite Formation off Muscat, Sultanate of Oman},
author = {Ponnampalam, L.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Aquatic Mammals},
volume = {42},
number = {432},
pages = { 162-167},
abstract = {The note documents a sperm whale encounter off Muscat where roughly 35 individuals formed a marguerite but not in response to any obvious threat or danger. Bottlenose dolphins and rissos dolphins were present.},
keywords = {bottlenose dolphin, Grampus griseus, Interspecies interactions, Oman, Physeter macrocephalus, predation, Risso's dolphin, Social behaviour, sperm whale, tursiops sp},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The note documents a sperm whale encounter off Muscat where roughly 35 individuals formed a marguerite but not in response to any obvious threat or danger. Bottlenose dolphins and rissos dolphins were present.
Amaral, A. R.,Collins, T.,Minton, G.,Baldwin, R.,Willson, A.,Kershaw, Francine,Gray, H.,Findlay, K.,Brownell Jr, R.L.,Rosenbaum, H. C.
Update on Genetic Analyses of Arabian Sea Humpback Whales Technical Report
no. 9, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, breeding grounds, feeding grounds, genetics, Gulf of Masirah, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Microsatellite, sexing
@techreport{,
title = {Update on Genetic Analyses of Arabian Sea Humpback Whales},
author = {Amaral, A. R.,Collins, T.,Minton, G.,Baldwin, R.,Willson, A.,Kershaw, Francine,Gray, H.,Findlay, K.,Brownell Jr, R.L.,Rosenbaum, H. C.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Working Paper presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {9},
pages = {6},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {From the 49 new samples, 44 were successfully genotyped at 10 microsatellite loci. We identified 27 males and 17 females. Within this dataset, 7 duplicate samples were found. Five samples representing 3 individuals in the 2015 dataset registered as genotypic matches with animals sampled in the 2004 dataset. An additional 9 samples involving 6 individuals that represent potential matches between the 2015 and 2004 dataset are being reviewed to determine if they represent inter-year recaptures. As the data were generated very recently, further checks to clarify issues with some microsatellite loci will be completed. Six samples failed to amplify consistently for sexing markers and need to be revisited.
Analysis of the combined genotypic dataset will be completed by the end of June/early July 2016. The genotypic matches and sexing data will be incorporated into the Oman Photo-ID database, and used to generate robust updated photo-ID and genotypic mark-recapture estimates of population abundance. These data have also been used to determine or confirm the sex of the 9 satellite tagged whales off the coast of Oman (see SH28), and a significant number of other whales identified photographically off the coast of Oman. This will prove highly valuable if future satellite tagging efforts are undertaken in Oman, as previous tagging work has been significantly male-biased (See SH28), and future tagging should target known females.
Preliminary assessment of the new sexing data (although not yet fully complete) is providing valuable insight into possible difference in habitat use between the two primary study sites off the coast of Oman (see Figure 1). Minton et al. (2011) documented a heavy bias toward males in Dhofar and a ratio near parity in the Gulf of Masirah. These results were based on the total number of photographic captures of known sex individuals. The combination of new and old sexing information allows for a more nuanced examination of this phenomenon: the male-female ratio based on individual whales for which sex was determined in each study site (regardless of how frequently they were observed) is 2:1 in Dhofar (n=30), whilst in the Gulf of Masirah this ratio is slightly biased toward females, with 45% of individuals of known sex observed in that study area being male, and 55% female (n=49). More detailed analysis of these sexing data in relation to survey effort and photographic identification data will yield further important insights into habitat use, behaviour, and social interactions, critical for the conservation of this population.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, breeding grounds, feeding grounds, genetics, Gulf of Masirah, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Microsatellite, sexing},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
From the 49 new samples, 44 were successfully genotyped at 10 microsatellite loci. We identified 27 males and 17 females. Within this dataset, 7 duplicate samples were found. Five samples representing 3 individuals in the 2015 dataset registered as genotypic matches with animals sampled in the 2004 dataset. An additional 9 samples involving 6 individuals that represent potential matches between the 2015 and 2004 dataset are being reviewed to determine if they represent inter-year recaptures. As the data were generated very recently, further checks to clarify issues with some microsatellite loci will be completed. Six samples failed to amplify consistently for sexing markers and need to be revisited.
Analysis of the combined genotypic dataset will be completed by the end of June/early July 2016. The genotypic matches and sexing data will be incorporated into the Oman Photo-ID database, and used to generate robust updated photo-ID and genotypic mark-recapture estimates of population abundance. These data have also been used to determine or confirm the sex of the 9 satellite tagged whales off the coast of Oman (see SH28), and a significant number of other whales identified photographically off the coast of Oman. This will prove highly valuable if future satellite tagging efforts are undertaken in Oman, as previous tagging work has been significantly male-biased (See SH28), and future tagging should target known females.
Preliminary assessment of the new sexing data (although not yet fully complete) is providing valuable insight into possible difference in habitat use between the two primary study sites off the coast of Oman (see Figure 1). Minton et al. (2011) documented a heavy bias toward males in Dhofar and a ratio near parity in the Gulf of Masirah. These results were based on the total number of photographic captures of known sex individuals. The combination of new and old sexing information allows for a more nuanced examination of this phenomenon: the male-female ratio based on individual whales for which sex was determined in each study site (regardless of how frequently they were observed) is 2:1 in Dhofar (n=30), whilst in the Gulf of Masirah this ratio is slightly biased toward females, with 45% of individuals of known sex observed in that study area being male, and 55% female (n=49). More detailed analysis of these sexing data in relation to survey effort and photographic identification data will yield further important insights into habitat use, behaviour, and social interactions, critical for the conservation of this population.
Analysis of the combined genotypic dataset will be completed by the end of June/early July 2016. The genotypic matches and sexing data will be incorporated into the Oman Photo-ID database, and used to generate robust updated photo-ID and genotypic mark-recapture estimates of population abundance. These data have also been used to determine or confirm the sex of the 9 satellite tagged whales off the coast of Oman (see SH28), and a significant number of other whales identified photographically off the coast of Oman. This will prove highly valuable if future satellite tagging efforts are undertaken in Oman, as previous tagging work has been significantly male-biased (See SH28), and future tagging should target known females.
Preliminary assessment of the new sexing data (although not yet fully complete) is providing valuable insight into possible difference in habitat use between the two primary study sites off the coast of Oman (see Figure 1). Minton et al. (2011) documented a heavy bias toward males in Dhofar and a ratio near parity in the Gulf of Masirah. These results were based on the total number of photographic captures of known sex individuals. The combination of new and old sexing information allows for a more nuanced examination of this phenomenon: the male-female ratio based on individual whales for which sex was determined in each study site (regardless of how frequently they were observed) is 2:1 in Dhofar (n=30), whilst in the Gulf of Masirah this ratio is slightly biased toward females, with 45% of individuals of known sex observed in that study area being male, and 55% female (n=49). More detailed analysis of these sexing data in relation to survey effort and photographic identification data will yield further important insights into habitat use, behaviour, and social interactions, critical for the conservation of this population.
Ranjbar, Sharif,Dakhteh, Mohammad Sayed,Van Waerebeek, Koen
In: bioRxiv, no. 202, 2016.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera omurai, Distribution, Iran, Persian Gulf, stranding
@article{,
title = {Omura's whale (Balaenoptera omurai) stranding on Qeshm Island, Iran: further evidence for a wide (sub)tropical distribution, including the Persian Gulf},
author = {Ranjbar, Sharif,Dakhteh, Mohammad Sayed,Van Waerebeek, Koen},
url = {http://biorxiv.org/content/biorxiv/early/2016/03/07/042614.full.pdf},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {bioRxiv},
number = {202},
abstract = {A small, juvenile rorqual live-stranded on Qeshm Island, Iran, in the northern Strait of Hormuz (Persian Gulf) in September 2007. Cause of stranding remains unknown but the whale (QE22.09.2007) showed no severe traumatic injuries nor was emaciated. Based on at least seven morphological features, considered diagnostic in combination, allowed a positive identification as Omura's whale Balaenoptera omurai. Features included diminutive body size (397 cm), a large number of ventral grooves (n=82) extending caudad of the umbilicus, a strongly falcate dorsal fin, asymmetric colouration of the head (especially lower jaws) reminiscent of fin whale, including three unilateral dark stripes, faint/incomplete lateral rostral ridges, record low number of short, broad baleen plates (204 in right jaw). The likelihood for the existence of a local B. omurai population in the eastern Persian Gulf or northern Arabian Sea seems higher than the wandering of a very young animal or mother/calf pair from any of the known distant distribution areas in the eastern Indian Ocean or SW Indian Ocean (Madagascar). This is the first record of B. omurai in the NW Indian Ocean.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera omurai, Distribution, Iran, Persian Gulf, stranding},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
A small, juvenile rorqual live-stranded on Qeshm Island, Iran, in the northern Strait of Hormuz (Persian Gulf) in September 2007. Cause of stranding remains unknown but the whale (QE22.09.2007) showed no severe traumatic injuries nor was emaciated. Based on at least seven morphological features, considered diagnostic in combination, allowed a positive identification as Omura's whale Balaenoptera omurai. Features included diminutive body size (397 cm), a large number of ventral grooves (n=82) extending caudad of the umbilicus, a strongly falcate dorsal fin, asymmetric colouration of the head (especially lower jaws) reminiscent of fin whale, including three unilateral dark stripes, faint/incomplete lateral rostral ridges, record low number of short, broad baleen plates (204 in right jaw). The likelihood for the existence of a local B. omurai population in the eastern Persian Gulf or northern Arabian Sea seems higher than the wandering of a very young animal or mother/calf pair from any of the known distant distribution areas in the eastern Indian Ocean or SW Indian Ocean (Madagascar). This is the first record of B. omurai in the NW Indian Ocean.
Robinson, David P.,Jaidah, Mohammed Y.,Bach, Steffen,Lee, Katie,Jabado, Rima W.,Rohner, Christoph A.,March, Abi,Caprodossi, Simone,Henderson, Aaron C.,Mair, James M.,Ormond, Rupert,Pierce, Simon J.
Population Structure, Abundance and Movement of Whale Sharks in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman Journal Article
In: PLoS ONE, vol. 11, no. 445, pp. e0158593, 2016.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Distribution, Gulf of Oman, Movements, photo identification, Sea of Oman, whale sharks
@article{,
title = {Population Structure, Abundance and Movement of Whale Sharks in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman},
author = {Robinson, David P.,Jaidah, Mohammed Y.,Bach, Steffen,Lee, Katie,Jabado, Rima W.,Rohner, Christoph A.,March, Abi,Caprodossi, Simone,Henderson, Aaron C.,Mair, James M.,Ormond, Rupert,Pierce, Simon J.},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0158593},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {PLoS ONE},
volume = {11},
number = {445},
pages = {e0158593},
publisher = {Public Library of Science},
abstract = {Data on the occurrence of whale sharks, Rhincodon typus , in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman were collected by dedicated boat surveys and via a public-sightings scheme during the period from 2011 to 2014. A total of 422 individual whale sharks were photo-identified from the Arabian Gulf and the northern Gulf of Oman during that period. The majority of sharks (81%, n = 341) were encountered at the Al Shaheen area of Qatar, 90 km off the coast, with the Musandam region of Oman a secondary area of interest. At Al Shaheen, there were significantly more male sharks (n = 171) than females (n = 78; X2 = 17.52, P < 0.05). Mean estimated total length (TL) for sharks was 6.90 m ± 1.24 (median = 7 m; n = 296). Males (7.25 m ± 1.34; median = 8 m, n = 171) were larger than females (6.44 m ±1.09; median = 7 m, n = 78; Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.01). Of the male sharks assessed for maturity 63% were mature (n = 81), with 50% attaining maturity by 7.29 m and 100% by 9.00 m. Two female sharks of >9 m individuals were visually assessed as pregnant. Connectivity among sharks sighted in Qatari, Omani and UAE waters was confirmed by individual spot pattern matches. A total of 13 identified sharks were re-sighted at locations other than that at which they were first sighted, including movements into and out of the Arabian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz. Maximum likelihood techniques were used to model an estimated combined population for the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman of 2837 sharks ± 1243.91 S.E. (95% C.I. 1720–6295). The Al Shaheen aggregation is thus the first site described as being dominated by mature males while the free-swimming pregnant females are the first reported from the Indian Ocean.
},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Distribution, Gulf of Oman, Movements, photo identification, Sea of Oman, whale sharks},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Data on the occurrence of whale sharks,
Buultjens, Jeremy,Ratnayke, Iraj,Gnanapala, Athula
Whale watching in Sri Lanka: Perceptions of sustainability Journal Article
In: Tourism Management Perspectives, vol. 18, no. 62, pp. 125-133, 2016, ISBN: 2211-9736.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, impact, management, regulations, Sri Lanka, Sustainability, Whale watching
@article{,
title = {Whale watching in Sri Lanka: Perceptions of sustainability},
author = {Buultjens, Jeremy,Ratnayke, Iraj,Gnanapala, Athula},
issn = {2211-9736},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Tourism Management Perspectives},
volume = {18},
number = {62},
pages = {125-133},
abstract = {Whale watching creates an economic value for whales beyond consumption and therefore assists in the conservation of the species. However sustainable management is needed to avoid deleterious impacts on the whales and the industry. This paper uses a range of qualitative methods to examine the characteristics, management and perceived sustainability of the relatively newly established whale watching industry in Sri Lanka. It is clear that the laissez faire development of the industry has resulted in some poor conservation outcomes for the
whales as well as variable tourist experiences. The Sri Lankan government has introduced legislated regulations aimed at managing the industry however it must ensure adequate human and financial resources are provided to ensure the effective implementation of the regulations and therefore the sustainability of the industry.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, impact, management, regulations, Sri Lanka, Sustainability, Whale watching},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Whale watching creates an economic value for whales beyond consumption and therefore assists in the conservation of the species. However sustainable management is needed to avoid deleterious impacts on the whales and the industry. This paper uses a range of qualitative methods to examine the characteristics, management and perceived sustainability of the relatively newly established whale watching industry in Sri Lanka. It is clear that the laissez faire development of the industry has resulted in some poor conservation outcomes for the
whales as well as variable tourist experiences. The Sri Lankan government has introduced legislated regulations aimed at managing the industry however it must ensure adequate human and financial resources are provided to ensure the effective implementation of the regulations and therefore the sustainability of the industry.
whales as well as variable tourist experiences. The Sri Lankan government has introduced legislated regulations aimed at managing the industry however it must ensure adequate human and financial resources are provided to ensure the effective implementation of the regulations and therefore the sustainability of the industry.
Cerchio, S,Willson, A.,Muirhead, C.,Minton, G.,Collins, T.,Baldwin, R.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Al Harthi, S.
Preliminary Report on Long-term Detection of Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Vocalizations off Oman Technical Report
no. 343, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: acoustic detection, Arabian Sea, behaviour, breeding grounds, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, Passive acoustic detection, song
@techreport{,
title = {Preliminary Report on Long-term Detection of Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Vocalizations off Oman},
author = {Cerchio, S,Willson, A.,Muirhead, C.,Minton, G.,Collins, T.,Baldwin, R.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Al Harthi, S.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Report Presented to the Scientific Committee meeting of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {343},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {This report presents an overview of the progress to date on the humpback whale detection
component of the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Acoustic Research program off Oman. Three
archival acoustic recorders were deployed at sites in two regions for approximately one year each,
in Hallaniyats Bay during 2011/2012, and the Gulf of Masirah during 2012/2013. Performance of
recorders varied among deployments, but despite some challenges due to equipment failures we
succeeded in documenting spatiotemporal patterns in the presence of humpback whales in a large
dataset. Several key findings broaden our understanding of the Arabian Sea humpback whale
population off Oman. There appears a strong seasonal component to the use of song by this
population, primarily from November through May, which is congruent with the Northern
Hemisphere breeding cycle and singing season. Throughout this period, singing was heard in both
Hallaniyats Bay and the Gulf of Masirah, separated by approximately 400km, indicating that the
population utilizes both of these regions. However, there was a much stronger presence in
Hallaniyats Bay, with song heard nearly 24 hours/day during the peak months, and song detected
simultaneously at multiple sites across the Bay. Previous boat-based survey data indicated similar
trends, however, given limitation in the duration of this fieldwork the current acoustic dataset
provides a more reliable indication of this population’s breeding related activity. This suggests that
the Hallaniyats Bay might serve as a more important habitat for breeding activity than the
monitored region of the Gulf of Masirah. There also appeared to be a subtle northward shift in
distribution of detections as the singing season progressed, both within Hallaniyats Bay, and from
Hallaniyats Bay to the Gulf of Masirah, suggesting a seasonal shift in distribution for singing males.
During the summer and autumn months, very little song was detected, however sparse detections
indicate that whales are present in both regions during at least some of this period. It is
recommended that similar acoustic monitoring be conducted in all range states of the population to
elucidate spatiotemporal distribution throughout the Arabian Sea.},
keywords = {acoustic detection, Arabian Sea, behaviour, breeding grounds, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, Passive acoustic detection, song},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This report presents an overview of the progress to date on the humpback whale detection
component of the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Acoustic Research program off Oman. Three
archival acoustic recorders were deployed at sites in two regions for approximately one year each,
in Hallaniyats Bay during 2011/2012, and the Gulf of Masirah during 2012/2013. Performance of
recorders varied among deployments, but despite some challenges due to equipment failures we
succeeded in documenting spatiotemporal patterns in the presence of humpback whales in a large
dataset. Several key findings broaden our understanding of the Arabian Sea humpback whale
population off Oman. There appears a strong seasonal component to the use of song by this
population, primarily from November through May, which is congruent with the Northern
Hemisphere breeding cycle and singing season. Throughout this period, singing was heard in both
Hallaniyats Bay and the Gulf of Masirah, separated by approximately 400km, indicating that the
population utilizes both of these regions. However, there was a much stronger presence in
Hallaniyats Bay, with song heard nearly 24 hours/day during the peak months, and song detected
simultaneously at multiple sites across the Bay. Previous boat-based survey data indicated similar
trends, however, given limitation in the duration of this fieldwork the current acoustic dataset
provides a more reliable indication of this population’s breeding related activity. This suggests that
the Hallaniyats Bay might serve as a more important habitat for breeding activity than the
monitored region of the Gulf of Masirah. There also appeared to be a subtle northward shift in
distribution of detections as the singing season progressed, both within Hallaniyats Bay, and from
Hallaniyats Bay to the Gulf of Masirah, suggesting a seasonal shift in distribution for singing males.
During the summer and autumn months, very little song was detected, however sparse detections
indicate that whales are present in both regions during at least some of this period. It is
recommended that similar acoustic monitoring be conducted in all range states of the population to
elucidate spatiotemporal distribution throughout the Arabian Sea.
component of the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Acoustic Research program off Oman. Three
archival acoustic recorders were deployed at sites in two regions for approximately one year each,
in Hallaniyats Bay during 2011/2012, and the Gulf of Masirah during 2012/2013. Performance of
recorders varied among deployments, but despite some challenges due to equipment failures we
succeeded in documenting spatiotemporal patterns in the presence of humpback whales in a large
dataset. Several key findings broaden our understanding of the Arabian Sea humpback whale
population off Oman. There appears a strong seasonal component to the use of song by this
population, primarily from November through May, which is congruent with the Northern
Hemisphere breeding cycle and singing season. Throughout this period, singing was heard in both
Hallaniyats Bay and the Gulf of Masirah, separated by approximately 400km, indicating that the
population utilizes both of these regions. However, there was a much stronger presence in
Hallaniyats Bay, with song heard nearly 24 hours/day during the peak months, and song detected
simultaneously at multiple sites across the Bay. Previous boat-based survey data indicated similar
trends, however, given limitation in the duration of this fieldwork the current acoustic dataset
provides a more reliable indication of this population’s breeding related activity. This suggests that
the Hallaniyats Bay might serve as a more important habitat for breeding activity than the
monitored region of the Gulf of Masirah. There also appeared to be a subtle northward shift in
distribution of detections as the singing season progressed, both within Hallaniyats Bay, and from
Hallaniyats Bay to the Gulf of Masirah, suggesting a seasonal shift in distribution for singing males.
During the summer and autumn months, very little song was detected, however sparse detections
indicate that whales are present in both regions during at least some of this period. It is
recommended that similar acoustic monitoring be conducted in all range states of the population to
elucidate spatiotemporal distribution throughout the Arabian Sea.
Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins, T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Sucunza, F.,Zerbini, A. N.,Witt, M.J.
Research update on satellite tagging studies of the Arabian Sea humpback whales in the Sultanate of Oman Technical Report
no. 500, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Distribution, feeding, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, seasonal change
@techreport{,
title = {Research update on satellite tagging studies of the Arabian Sea humpback whales in the Sultanate of Oman},
author = {Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins, T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Sucunza, F.,Zerbini, A. N.,Witt, M.J.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee meeting of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {500},
pages = {23},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {Three surveys focusing on Arabian Sea humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were conducted from
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.},
keywords = {Distribution, feeding, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, seasonal change},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Three surveys focusing on Arabian Sea humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were conducted from
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.
Willson, A.,Kowalik, J.,Godley, B.J.,Baldwin, R.,Struck, A.,Struck, L.,Nawaz, Rab,Witt, M.J.
Priorities for addressing whale and ship co-occurrence off the coast of Oman and the wider North Indian Ocean. Technical Report
no. 503, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: AIS, Blue whale, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, ship strike, vessel traffic, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Priorities for addressing whale and ship co-occurrence off the coast of Oman and the wider North Indian Ocean.},
author = {Willson, A.,Kowalik, J.,Godley, B.J.,Baldwin, R.,Struck, A.,Struck, L.,Nawaz, Rab,Witt, M.J.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {503},
pages = {13},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {Satellite telemetry studies and habitat density mapping of the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale
(Megaptera novaeangliae) has revealed overlap with shipping off the coast of Oman. To date the only other
Northern Indian Ocean (NIO) study to determine the risk of mortality to whales (Baleanoptera musculus)
from shipping was completed in Sri Lanka. A demonstration exercise reviewing vessel traffic (from AIS
data) passing through coarsely defined habitat reveals that container vessels may provide the highest risk to
whales based on speed of vessels, and given a three fold increase in container traffic in the NIO region
between 2004 and 2014. Traffic density heat maps show shipping routes are predominantly distributed
around the periphery of the NIO area in close proximity to the continental shelf showing overlap with
historical records of takes of blue, humpback, sperm (Physester macrocephalus) and Bryde’s whales
(Baleanoptridae edeni) during Soviet whaling between 1964 and 1966. The review presents a case for
immediately commencing risk assessment work on humpback and ship co-occurrence in Oman whilst
undertaking a wider spatial assessment of the region to at least determine priority areas for study. Given
overlapping habitat use between species in certain areas, a multi-species approach to reviewing mitigation
options is recommended.},
keywords = {AIS, Blue whale, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, ship strike, vessel traffic, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Satellite telemetry studies and habitat density mapping of the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale
(Megaptera novaeangliae) has revealed overlap with shipping off the coast of Oman. To date the only other
Northern Indian Ocean (NIO) study to determine the risk of mortality to whales (Baleanoptera musculus)
from shipping was completed in Sri Lanka. A demonstration exercise reviewing vessel traffic (from AIS
data) passing through coarsely defined habitat reveals that container vessels may provide the highest risk to
whales based on speed of vessels, and given a three fold increase in container traffic in the NIO region
between 2004 and 2014. Traffic density heat maps show shipping routes are predominantly distributed
around the periphery of the NIO area in close proximity to the continental shelf showing overlap with
historical records of takes of blue, humpback, sperm (Physester macrocephalus) and Bryde’s whales
(Baleanoptridae edeni) during Soviet whaling between 1964 and 1966. The review presents a case for
immediately commencing risk assessment work on humpback and ship co-occurrence in Oman whilst
undertaking a wider spatial assessment of the region to at least determine priority areas for study. Given
overlapping habitat use between species in certain areas, a multi-species approach to reviewing mitigation
options is recommended.
(Megaptera novaeangliae) has revealed overlap with shipping off the coast of Oman. To date the only other
Northern Indian Ocean (NIO) study to determine the risk of mortality to whales (Baleanoptera musculus)
from shipping was completed in Sri Lanka. A demonstration exercise reviewing vessel traffic (from AIS
data) passing through coarsely defined habitat reveals that container vessels may provide the highest risk to
whales based on speed of vessels, and given a three fold increase in container traffic in the NIO region
between 2004 and 2014. Traffic density heat maps show shipping routes are predominantly distributed
around the periphery of the NIO area in close proximity to the continental shelf showing overlap with
historical records of takes of blue, humpback, sperm (Physester macrocephalus) and Bryde’s whales
(Baleanoptridae edeni) during Soviet whaling between 1964 and 1966. The review presents a case for
immediately commencing risk assessment work on humpback and ship co-occurrence in Oman whilst
undertaking a wider spatial assessment of the region to at least determine priority areas for study. Given
overlapping habitat use between species in certain areas, a multi-species approach to reviewing mitigation
options is recommended.
IWC
Report of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission 2016 Technical Report
no. 121, 2016.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, International Whaling Commission, management, Southern Hemisphere, Stock identity
@techreport{,
title = {Report of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission 2016},
author = {IWC},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
volume = {66b},
number = {121},
pages = {138},
publisher = {International Whaling Commission},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, International Whaling Commission, management, Southern Hemisphere, Stock identity},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
IWC
Report of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission 2016: Annex H: Report of the Sub-Committee on Other Southern Hemisphere Whale Stocks Technical Report
no. 122, 2016.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, International Whaling Commission, management, Southern Hemisphere, Stock identity
@techreport{,
title = {Report of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission 2016: Annex H: Report of the Sub-Committee on Other Southern Hemisphere Whale Stocks},
author = {IWC},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
volume = {66b},
number = {122},
pages = {44},
publisher = {International Whaling Commission},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, International Whaling Commission, management, Southern Hemisphere, Stock identity},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Al-Hashmi, Khalid A,Smith, Sharon L,Claereboudt, Michel,Piontkovski, Sergey A,Al-Azri, Adnan
Dynamics of potentially harmful phytoplankton in a semi-enclosed bay in the Sea of Oman Journal Article
In: Bulletin of Marine Science, vol. 91, no. 276, pp. 141-166, 2015, ISBN: 0007-4977.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Harmful Algal Bloom, mortality, Oman, Sea of Oman
@article{,
title = {Dynamics of potentially harmful phytoplankton in a semi-enclosed bay in the Sea of Oman},
author = {Al-Hashmi, Khalid A,Smith, Sharon L,Claereboudt, Michel,Piontkovski, Sergey A,Al-Azri, Adnan},
issn = {0007-4977},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Bulletin of Marine Science},
volume = {91},
number = {276},
pages = {141-166},
abstract = {The dynamics of potentially harmful
phytoplankton in relation to environmental parameters was
investigated in the semi-enclosed Bay of Bandar Khayran (Sea
of Oman) from April 2006 through April 2011. In total, 24
potentially harmful algal species were identified, including
11 species of dinoflagellates and eight species of diatoms. The
dinoflagellates Prorocentrum minimum (Pavillard) Schiller,
1933, Scrippsiella trochoidea Balech ex Loeblich III, 1965,
and Noctiluca scintillans (Macartney) Kofoid and Swezy,
1921 were most abundant during the Southwest Monsoon
(SWM, July–September) and Northeast Monsoon (NEM,
January–March) seasons, while other species occurred in
low abundance and with no clear seasonal patterns. A dense
bloom of Cochlodinium polykrikoides Margalef, 1961 that
affected the distribution and abundance of other harmful
algal species (HAB) was observed for the first time in the Sea of
Oman during 2008–2009. Prorocentrum minimum increased
in abundance during and after the decay of the Cochlodinium
bloom while S. trochoidea was suppressed during this bloom,
increasing thereafter once again. Noctiluca scintillans
disappeared in the late SWM and NEM of 2008 and SWM of
2009, when blooms typically occur annually. Prorocentrum
minimum and S. trochoidea persisted throughout the annual
cycle of all years, enhancing their capability to bloom in the
region under favorable conditions of high light intensities
and relatively warm waters of low turbulence.},
keywords = {Harmful Algal Bloom, mortality, Oman, Sea of Oman},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The dynamics of potentially harmful
phytoplankton in relation to environmental parameters was
investigated in the semi-enclosed Bay of Bandar Khayran (Sea
of Oman) from April 2006 through April 2011. In total, 24
potentially harmful algal species were identified, including
11 species of dinoflagellates and eight species of diatoms. The
dinoflagellates Prorocentrum minimum (Pavillard) Schiller,
1933, Scrippsiella trochoidea Balech ex Loeblich III, 1965,
and Noctiluca scintillans (Macartney) Kofoid and Swezy,
1921 were most abundant during the Southwest Monsoon
(SWM, July–September) and Northeast Monsoon (NEM,
January–March) seasons, while other species occurred in
low abundance and with no clear seasonal patterns. A dense
bloom of Cochlodinium polykrikoides Margalef, 1961 that
affected the distribution and abundance of other harmful
algal species (HAB) was observed for the first time in the Sea of
Oman during 2008–2009. Prorocentrum minimum increased
in abundance during and after the decay of the Cochlodinium
bloom while S. trochoidea was suppressed during this bloom,
increasing thereafter once again. Noctiluca scintillans
disappeared in the late SWM and NEM of 2008 and SWM of
2009, when blooms typically occur annually. Prorocentrum
minimum and S. trochoidea persisted throughout the annual
cycle of all years, enhancing their capability to bloom in the
region under favorable conditions of high light intensities
and relatively warm waters of low turbulence.
phytoplankton in relation to environmental parameters was
investigated in the semi-enclosed Bay of Bandar Khayran (Sea
of Oman) from April 2006 through April 2011. In total, 24
potentially harmful algal species were identified, including
11 species of dinoflagellates and eight species of diatoms. The
dinoflagellates Prorocentrum minimum (Pavillard) Schiller,
1933, Scrippsiella trochoidea Balech ex Loeblich III, 1965,
and Noctiluca scintillans (Macartney) Kofoid and Swezy,
1921 were most abundant during the Southwest Monsoon
(SWM, July–September) and Northeast Monsoon (NEM,
January–March) seasons, while other species occurred in
low abundance and with no clear seasonal patterns. A dense
bloom of Cochlodinium polykrikoides Margalef, 1961 that
affected the distribution and abundance of other harmful
algal species (HAB) was observed for the first time in the Sea of
Oman during 2008–2009. Prorocentrum minimum increased
in abundance during and after the decay of the Cochlodinium
bloom while S. trochoidea was suppressed during this bloom,
increasing thereafter once again. Noctiluca scintillans
disappeared in the late SWM and NEM of 2008 and SWM of
2009, when blooms typically occur annually. Prorocentrum
minimum and S. trochoidea persisted throughout the annual
cycle of all years, enhancing their capability to bloom in the
region under favorable conditions of high light intensities
and relatively warm waters of low turbulence.
Roman, Joe,Dunphy-Daly, Meagan M.,Johnston, David W.,Read, Andrew J.
Lifting baselines to address the consequences of conservation success Journal Article
In: Trends in Ecology & Evolution, vol. 30, no. 447, pp. 299-302, 2015, ISBN: 0169-5347.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: conservation success, Endangered species, historical abundance, management, Marine mammals, population trends, recovery, shifting baselines
@article{,
title = {Lifting baselines to address the consequences of conservation success},
author = {Roman, Joe,Dunphy-Daly, Meagan M.,Johnston, David W.,Read, Andrew J.},
url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169534715000932},
issn = {0169-5347},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Trends in Ecology & Evolution},
volume = {30},
number = {447},
pages = {299-302},
abstract = {In recent years, many marine mammals, seabirds, and other species have begun to recover.
These changes are the result of legislation, international agreements, and conservation efforts.
Conservation efforts and legislation are lifting baselines for new generations.
Conservationists should help the public understand recovery by lifting baselines.
Managing wildlife abundance rather than scarcity presents an opportunity for human society.Biologists and policymakers are accustomed to managing species in decline, but for the first time in generations they are also encountering recovering populations of ocean predators. Many citizens perceive these species as invaders and conflicts are increasing. It is time to celebrate these hard-earned successes and lift baselines for recovering species.},
keywords = {conservation success, Endangered species, historical abundance, management, Marine mammals, population trends, recovery, shifting baselines},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
In recent years, many marine mammals, seabirds, and other species have begun to recover.
These changes are the result of legislation, international agreements, and conservation efforts.
Conservation efforts and legislation are lifting baselines for new generations.
Conservationists should help the public understand recovery by lifting baselines.
Managing wildlife abundance rather than scarcity presents an opportunity for human society.Biologists and policymakers are accustomed to managing species in decline, but for the first time in generations they are also encountering recovering populations of ocean predators. Many citizens perceive these species as invaders and conflicts are increasing. It is time to celebrate these hard-earned successes and lift baselines for recovering species.
These changes are the result of legislation, international agreements, and conservation efforts.
Conservation efforts and legislation are lifting baselines for new generations.
Conservationists should help the public understand recovery by lifting baselines.
Managing wildlife abundance rather than scarcity presents an opportunity for human society.Biologists and policymakers are accustomed to managing species in decline, but for the first time in generations they are also encountering recovering populations of ocean predators. Many citizens perceive these species as invaders and conflicts are increasing. It is time to celebrate these hard-earned successes and lift baselines for recovering species.
Baldwin, R.,Willson, Andrew,Collins, T.J.Q.
Watching out for whales: industry responsibility to address threats to Arabian Sea humpback whales, Gulf of Masirah, Oman Technical Report
no. 312, 2015.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, seismic, ship strike, vessel traffic
@techreport{,
title = {Watching out for whales: industry responsibility to address threats to Arabian Sea humpback whales, Gulf of Masirah, Oman},
author = {Baldwin, R.,Willson, Andrew,Collins, T.J.Q.},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the 66th meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {312},
pages = {10},
abstract = {Research on Arabian Sea humpback whales in Oman over the past 15 years has revealed that the Gulf of Masirah is a hot spot for this Endangered population and the only part of its known range where males and females are found at near parity. This information has been used by a partnership of industry, consultancy and NGO in Oman to develop mitigation related to port operations and hydrocarbon exploration in the area. This has included the development of a Whale Management and Mitigation Programme to be implemented by the Port of Duqm Company, as well as mitigation procedures that were used by a seismic survey contractor in late 2014. Impacts to whales nevertheless remain, including a collision between seismic equipment and a whale in December 2014, suggesting that further development of protection measures for the Arabian Sea humpback whale is still required. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, seismic, ship strike, vessel traffic},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Research on Arabian Sea humpback whales in Oman over the past 15 years has revealed that the Gulf of Masirah is a hot spot for this Endangered population and the only part of its known range where males and females are found at near parity. This information has been used by a partnership of industry, consultancy and NGO in Oman to develop mitigation related to port operations and hydrocarbon exploration in the area. This has included the development of a Whale Management and Mitigation Programme to be implemented by the Port of Duqm Company, as well as mitigation procedures that were used by a seismic survey contractor in late 2014. Impacts to whales nevertheless remain, including a collision between seismic equipment and a whale in December 2014, suggesting that further development of protection measures for the Arabian Sea humpback whale is still required.
Bettridge, S,Baker, CS,Barlow, J,Clapham, PJ,Ford, M,Gouveia, D,Mattila, DK,Pace III, RM,Rosel, PE,Silber, GK
Status review of the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) under the Endangered Species Act. US Dep. Commer Journal Article
In: NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-SWFSC, vol. 540, no. 45, pp. 263, 2015.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: conservation status, Endangered species, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, population status, USA
@article{,
title = {Status review of the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) under the Endangered Species Act. US Dep. Commer},
author = {Bettridge, S,Baker, CS,Barlow, J,Clapham, PJ,Ford, M,Gouveia, D,Mattila, DK,Pace III, RM,Rosel, PE,Silber, GK},
url = {https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/4883},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-SWFSC},
volume = {540},
number = {45},
pages = {263},
abstract = {Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were listed as endangered in 1970 under the
Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1969, the precursor to the Endangered Species Act
(ESA). When the ESA was enacted in 1973, humpback whales were included in the List of
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (the List) as endangered and were considered as
“depleted” under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).
In May 2010, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) convened the Humpback Whale
Biological Review Team (BRT) to conduct a comprehensive review of the status of humpback
whales as the basis for considering revisions to this species’ listing status. The ESA, as amended
in 1978, defines a species to be “any subspecies of fish or wildlife or plants, and any distinct
population segment of any species of vertebrate fish or wildlife which interbreeds when mature”
(Section 3(16)). Guidance on what constitutes a “distinct population segment” (DPS) is provided
by the joint NMFS-Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) interagency policy on vertebrate
populations (61 FR 4722, 7 February 1996). To be considered a DPS, a population, or group of
populations, must be “discrete” from the remainder of the taxon to which it belongs; and
“significant” to the taxon to which it belongs. Information on distribution, ecological situation,
genetics, and other factors is used to evaluate a population’s discreteness and significance.
Conducting an ESA status review therefore involves two key tasks: identifying the taxonomic
units (species, subspecies or DPS) to be evaluated, and assessing the risk of extinction for each
of these units.
Identification of Distinct Population Segments
Humpback whales are found in all oceans of the world with a broad geographical range from
tropical to temperate waters in the Northern Hemisphere and from tropical to near-ice-edge
waters in the Southern Hemisphere. Nearly all populations undertake seasonal migrations
between their tropical and sub-tropical winter calving and breeding grounds1 and high-latitude
summer feeding grounds.
Humpback whales are currently considered to be a monotypic species, but whales from the
Northern and Southern Hemispheres differ from each other substantially in a number of traits,
including coloration, timing of reproduction and migratory behavior, diet, and molecular genetic
characteristics. Within the Northern Hemisphere, populations from the Atlantic and Pacific also
differ markedly in molecular genetic traits and coloration patterns, with no evidence of exchange
of individuals between these ocean basins. In the Northern Indian Ocean, a population
inhabiting the Arabian Sea is also markedly divergent in molecular and behavioral characteristics
from all other populations globally. Whales from these four areas (North Pacific, North Atlantic,
Southern Hemisphere, and Arabian Sea) were so divergent that the BRT considered the
possibility that they might reasonably be considered different sub-species, and enlisted the aid of
the Committee on Taxonomy of the Society for Marine Mammalogy to help address this
question. The committee concluded that if a taxonomic revision of humpback whales were to be
undertaken, it is likely that the North Atlantic, North Pacific and Southern Hemisphere groups
In this document, the term “breeding ground” refers to areas in tropical or subtropical waters where humpback
whales migrate in winter to mate and give birth to calves.
would be recognized as sub-species. The BRT therefore largely focused on the question of
whether any DPS could be identified within each of these major ocean basins, although we also
evaluated whether any DPS so identified would also be discrete and significant if evaluated with
reference to the entire global species.
Population structure in humpback whales has been previously evaluated both for breeding areas
and feeding areas. In applying the discreteness and significance criteria, the BRT focused on
breeding populations as the units that could be identified as DPSs, consistent with the language
in the ESA that species (including DPS) “interbreed when mature.” Information on where a
breeding population feeds, however, was considered in evaluating both the significance and
discreteness of that population.
The BRT evaluated genetic data, tagging and photographic-ID data, demographic information,
geographic barriers, and stranding data, and determined that there are at least 15 DPS of
humpback whales. Significant differences in patterns of genetic variation and information on the
rates of exchange of individuals among breeding areas were particularly important for evaluating
population discreteness, and patterns of geographic occurrence, differences in ecology among
feeding and in some cases breeding areas, and degree of genetic differentiation were most
important for determining significance.
Based on this information, the BRT identified the following humpback whale distinct population
segments, named after their primary breeding locations (Figure 1):
1. West Indies
2. Cape Verde Islands/Northwest Africa
3. Hawaii
4. Central America
5. Mexico
6. Okinawa/Philippines
7. Second West Pacific (exact location unknown)
8. West Australia
9. East Australia
10. Oceania
11. Southeastern Pacific
12. Brazil
13. Gabon/Southwest Africa
14. Southeast Africa/ Madagascar
15. Arabian Sea},
keywords = {conservation status, Endangered species, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, population status, USA},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were listed as endangered in 1970 under the
Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1969, the precursor to the Endangered Species Act
(ESA). When the ESA was enacted in 1973, humpback whales were included in the List of
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (the List) as endangered and were considered as
“depleted” under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).
In May 2010, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) convened the Humpback Whale
Biological Review Team (BRT) to conduct a comprehensive review of the status of humpback
whales as the basis for considering revisions to this species’ listing status. The ESA, as amended
in 1978, defines a species to be “any subspecies of fish or wildlife or plants, and any distinct
population segment of any species of vertebrate fish or wildlife which interbreeds when mature”
(Section 3(16)). Guidance on what constitutes a “distinct population segment” (DPS) is provided
by the joint NMFS-Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) interagency policy on vertebrate
populations (61 FR 4722, 7 February 1996). To be considered a DPS, a population, or group of
populations, must be “discrete” from the remainder of the taxon to which it belongs; and
“significant” to the taxon to which it belongs. Information on distribution, ecological situation,
genetics, and other factors is used to evaluate a population’s discreteness and significance.
Conducting an ESA status review therefore involves two key tasks: identifying the taxonomic
units (species, subspecies or DPS) to be evaluated, and assessing the risk of extinction for each
of these units.
Identification of Distinct Population Segments
Humpback whales are found in all oceans of the world with a broad geographical range from
tropical to temperate waters in the Northern Hemisphere and from tropical to near-ice-edge
waters in the Southern Hemisphere. Nearly all populations undertake seasonal migrations
between their tropical and sub-tropical winter calving and breeding grounds1 and high-latitude
summer feeding grounds.
Humpback whales are currently considered to be a monotypic species, but whales from the
Northern and Southern Hemispheres differ from each other substantially in a number of traits,
including coloration, timing of reproduction and migratory behavior, diet, and molecular genetic
characteristics. Within the Northern Hemisphere, populations from the Atlantic and Pacific also
differ markedly in molecular genetic traits and coloration patterns, with no evidence of exchange
of individuals between these ocean basins. In the Northern Indian Ocean, a population
inhabiting the Arabian Sea is also markedly divergent in molecular and behavioral characteristics
from all other populations globally. Whales from these four areas (North Pacific, North Atlantic,
Southern Hemisphere, and Arabian Sea) were so divergent that the BRT considered the
possibility that they might reasonably be considered different sub-species, and enlisted the aid of
the Committee on Taxonomy of the Society for Marine Mammalogy to help address this
question. The committee concluded that if a taxonomic revision of humpback whales were to be
undertaken, it is likely that the North Atlantic, North Pacific and Southern Hemisphere groups
In this document, the term “breeding ground” refers to areas in tropical or subtropical waters where humpback
whales migrate in winter to mate and give birth to calves.
would be recognized as sub-species. The BRT therefore largely focused on the question of
whether any DPS could be identified within each of these major ocean basins, although we also
evaluated whether any DPS so identified would also be discrete and significant if evaluated with
reference to the entire global species.
Population structure in humpback whales has been previously evaluated both for breeding areas
and feeding areas. In applying the discreteness and significance criteria, the BRT focused on
breeding populations as the units that could be identified as DPSs, consistent with the language
in the ESA that species (including DPS) “interbreed when mature.” Information on where a
breeding population feeds, however, was considered in evaluating both the significance and
discreteness of that population.
The BRT evaluated genetic data, tagging and photographic-ID data, demographic information,
geographic barriers, and stranding data, and determined that there are at least 15 DPS of
humpback whales. Significant differences in patterns of genetic variation and information on the
rates of exchange of individuals among breeding areas were particularly important for evaluating
population discreteness, and patterns of geographic occurrence, differences in ecology among
feeding and in some cases breeding areas, and degree of genetic differentiation were most
important for determining significance.
Based on this information, the BRT identified the following humpback whale distinct population
segments, named after their primary breeding locations (Figure 1):
1. West Indies
2. Cape Verde Islands/Northwest Africa
3. Hawaii
4. Central America
5. Mexico
6. Okinawa/Philippines
7. Second West Pacific (exact location unknown)
8. West Australia
9. East Australia
10. Oceania
11. Southeastern Pacific
12. Brazil
13. Gabon/Southwest Africa
14. Southeast Africa/ Madagascar
15. Arabian Sea
Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1969, the precursor to the Endangered Species Act
(ESA). When the ESA was enacted in 1973, humpback whales were included in the List of
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (the List) as endangered and were considered as
“depleted” under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).
In May 2010, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) convened the Humpback Whale
Biological Review Team (BRT) to conduct a comprehensive review of the status of humpback
whales as the basis for considering revisions to this species’ listing status. The ESA, as amended
in 1978, defines a species to be “any subspecies of fish or wildlife or plants, and any distinct
population segment of any species of vertebrate fish or wildlife which interbreeds when mature”
(Section 3(16)). Guidance on what constitutes a “distinct population segment” (DPS) is provided
by the joint NMFS-Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) interagency policy on vertebrate
populations (61 FR 4722, 7 February 1996). To be considered a DPS, a population, or group of
populations, must be “discrete” from the remainder of the taxon to which it belongs; and
“significant” to the taxon to which it belongs. Information on distribution, ecological situation,
genetics, and other factors is used to evaluate a population’s discreteness and significance.
Conducting an ESA status review therefore involves two key tasks: identifying the taxonomic
units (species, subspecies or DPS) to be evaluated, and assessing the risk of extinction for each
of these units.
Identification of Distinct Population Segments
Humpback whales are found in all oceans of the world with a broad geographical range from
tropical to temperate waters in the Northern Hemisphere and from tropical to near-ice-edge
waters in the Southern Hemisphere. Nearly all populations undertake seasonal migrations
between their tropical and sub-tropical winter calving and breeding grounds1 and high-latitude
summer feeding grounds.
Humpback whales are currently considered to be a monotypic species, but whales from the
Northern and Southern Hemispheres differ from each other substantially in a number of traits,
including coloration, timing of reproduction and migratory behavior, diet, and molecular genetic
characteristics. Within the Northern Hemisphere, populations from the Atlantic and Pacific also
differ markedly in molecular genetic traits and coloration patterns, with no evidence of exchange
of individuals between these ocean basins. In the Northern Indian Ocean, a population
inhabiting the Arabian Sea is also markedly divergent in molecular and behavioral characteristics
from all other populations globally. Whales from these four areas (North Pacific, North Atlantic,
Southern Hemisphere, and Arabian Sea) were so divergent that the BRT considered the
possibility that they might reasonably be considered different sub-species, and enlisted the aid of
the Committee on Taxonomy of the Society for Marine Mammalogy to help address this
question. The committee concluded that if a taxonomic revision of humpback whales were to be
undertaken, it is likely that the North Atlantic, North Pacific and Southern Hemisphere groups
In this document, the term “breeding ground” refers to areas in tropical or subtropical waters where humpback
whales migrate in winter to mate and give birth to calves.
would be recognized as sub-species. The BRT therefore largely focused on the question of
whether any DPS could be identified within each of these major ocean basins, although we also
evaluated whether any DPS so identified would also be discrete and significant if evaluated with
reference to the entire global species.
Population structure in humpback whales has been previously evaluated both for breeding areas
and feeding areas. In applying the discreteness and significance criteria, the BRT focused on
breeding populations as the units that could be identified as DPSs, consistent with the language
in the ESA that species (including DPS) “interbreed when mature.” Information on where a
breeding population feeds, however, was considered in evaluating both the significance and
discreteness of that population.
The BRT evaluated genetic data, tagging and photographic-ID data, demographic information,
geographic barriers, and stranding data, and determined that there are at least 15 DPS of
humpback whales. Significant differences in patterns of genetic variation and information on the
rates of exchange of individuals among breeding areas were particularly important for evaluating
population discreteness, and patterns of geographic occurrence, differences in ecology among
feeding and in some cases breeding areas, and degree of genetic differentiation were most
important for determining significance.
Based on this information, the BRT identified the following humpback whale distinct population
segments, named after their primary breeding locations (Figure 1):
1. West Indies
2. Cape Verde Islands/Northwest Africa
3. Hawaii
4. Central America
5. Mexico
6. Okinawa/Philippines
7. Second West Pacific (exact location unknown)
8. West Australia
9. East Australia
10. Oceania
11. Southeastern Pacific
12. Brazil
13. Gabon/Southwest Africa
14. Southeast Africa/ Madagascar
15. Arabian Sea
Thomas, Peter O.,Reeves, Randall R.,Brownell, Robert L.
Status of the world's baleen whales Journal Article
In: Marine Mammal Science, no. 242, 2015, ISBN: 1748-7692.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: anthropogenic noise, baleen whales, blue whales, Bycatch, cetaceans, Climate change, Endangered species, Entanglement, IUCN, ocean acidification, Red List, ship strike, status, whaling
@article{,
title = {Status of the world's baleen whales},
author = {Thomas, Peter O.,Reeves, Randall R.,Brownell, Robert L.},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.12281},
issn = {1748-7692},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Marine Mammal Science},
number = {242},
abstract = {No global synthesis of the status of baleen whales has been published since the 2008 IUCN Red List assessments. Many populations remain at low numbers from historical commercial whaling, which had ceased for all but a few by 1989. Fishing gear entanglement and ship strikes are the most severe current threats. The acute and long-term effects of anthropogenic noise and the cumulative effects of multiple stressors are of concern but poorly understood. The looming consequences of climate change and ocean acidification remain difficult to characterize. North Atlantic and North Pacific right whales are among the species listed as Endangered. Southern right, bowhead, and gray whales have been assessed as Least Concern but some subpopulations of these species - western North Pacific gray whales, Chile-Peru right whales, and Svalbard/Barents Sea and Sea of Okhotsk bowhead whales - remain at low levels and are either Endangered or Critically Endangered. Eastern North Pacific blue whales have reportedly recovered, but Antarctic blue whales remain at about 1% of pre-exploitation levels. Small isolated subspecies or subpopulations, such as northern Indian Ocean blue whales, Arabian Sea humpback whales, and Mediterranean Sea fin whales are threatened while most subpopulations of sei, Bryde's, and Omura's whales are inadequately monitored and difficult to assess.},
keywords = {anthropogenic noise, baleen whales, blue whales, Bycatch, cetaceans, Climate change, Endangered species, Entanglement, IUCN, ocean acidification, Red List, ship strike, status, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
No global synthesis of the status of baleen whales has been published since the 2008 IUCN Red List assessments. Many populations remain at low numbers from historical commercial whaling, which had ceased for all but a few by 1989. Fishing gear entanglement and ship strikes are the most severe current threats. The acute and long-term effects of anthropogenic noise and the cumulative effects of multiple stressors are of concern but poorly understood. The looming consequences of climate change and ocean acidification remain difficult to characterize. North Atlantic and North Pacific right whales are among the species listed as Endangered. Southern right, bowhead, and gray whales have been assessed as Least Concern but some subpopulations of these species - western North Pacific gray whales, Chile-Peru right whales, and Svalbard/Barents Sea and Sea of Okhotsk bowhead whales - remain at low levels and are either Endangered or Critically Endangered. Eastern North Pacific blue whales have reportedly recovered, but Antarctic blue whales remain at about 1% of pre-exploitation levels. Small isolated subspecies or subpopulations, such as northern Indian Ocean blue whales, Arabian Sea humpback whales, and Mediterranean Sea fin whales are threatened while most subpopulations of sei, Bryde's, and Omura's whales are inadequately monitored and difficult to assess.
Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins,T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Zerbini, A.N.,Witt, M.J.
Research update of satellite tracking studies of male Arabian Sea humpback whales; Oman Technical Report
no. 501, 2015, ISBN: SC/66a/SH/22 Rev 1.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, Threats
@techreport{,
title = {Research update of satellite tracking studies of male Arabian Sea humpback whales; Oman},
author = {Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins,T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Zerbini, A.N.,Witt, M.J.},
issn = {SC/66a/SH/22 Rev 1},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
number = {501},
pages = {12},
abstract = {Satellite tags were deployed on three adult male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) encountered off the southern coast of Oman during March 2015. This represents the second year of a telemetry study that began with the tagging of three whales in 2014 and forms part of a broader scientific research programme initiated in 2000 to understand the population biology and spatial ecology of Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales. Tags were deployed in an area commonly associated with the seasonal presence of singing whales. Resightings of whales tagged in 2014 (n=3), supported by photographic evidence of two animals, showed normal healing of epidermal tissue around the tag site over a period of 9 to 11 months. A repeat tagging of one known individual (tagged in 2014) as well as two other known individuals in the Oman photo-ID database provides further evidence for high site fidelity of males to the tagging site as well as the Gulf of Masirah. Habitat utilization inferred from telemetry and vessel survey data have confirmed the urgent need for mitigation measures in high-risk areas and have led to an improved understanding of humpback whale spatial ecology across the wider region.},
keywords = {Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, Threats},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Satellite tags were deployed on three adult male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) encountered off the southern coast of Oman during March 2015. This represents the second year of a telemetry study that began with the tagging of three whales in 2014 and forms part of a broader scientific research programme initiated in 2000 to understand the population biology and spatial ecology of Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales. Tags were deployed in an area commonly associated with the seasonal presence of singing whales. Resightings of whales tagged in 2014 (n=3), supported by photographic evidence of two animals, showed normal healing of epidermal tissue around the tag site over a period of 9 to 11 months. A repeat tagging of one known individual (tagged in 2014) as well as two other known individuals in the Oman photo-ID database provides further evidence for high site fidelity of males to the tagging site as well as the Gulf of Masirah. Habitat utilization inferred from telemetry and vessel survey data have confirmed the urgent need for mitigation measures in high-risk areas and have led to an improved understanding of humpback whale spatial ecology across the wider region.
Willson, A.,Tiwari, M.,Baldwin, B.,Al Kiyumi, Ali,Al Harthi, S.,Bulushi,Witherington, B.,Possardt, E.
Spatial analysis of satellite tracking of female loggerheads Masirah Island Oman; application and utility in evaluating fisheries co-occurrence for the assessment of bycatch Conference
no. 506, 2015.
BibTeX | Tags:
@conference{,
title = {Spatial analysis of satellite tracking of female loggerheads Masirah Island Oman; application and utility in evaluating fisheries co-occurrence for the assessment of bycatch},
author = {Willson, A.,Tiwari, M.,Baldwin, B.,Al Kiyumi, Ali,Al Harthi, S.,Bulushi,Witherington, B.,Possardt, E.},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {35th ISTS Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation, Dalaman, Turkey},
number = {506},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Escalle, L.,Capietto, A.,Chavance, P.,Dubroca, L.,Delgado De Molina, A.,Murua, H.,Gaertner, D.,Romanov, E.,Spitz, J.,Kiszka, J. J.,Floch, L.,Damiano, A.,Merigot, B.
Cetaceans and tuna purse seine fisheries in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans: interactions but few mortalities Journal Article
In: Marine Ecology Progress Series, vol. 522, no. 370, pp. 255-268, 2015.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Atlantic, Bycatch, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, Indian Ocean, megaptera novaeangliae, purse-Seine, tuna fishery
@article{,
title = {Cetaceans and tuna purse seine fisheries in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans: interactions but few mortalities},
author = {Escalle, L.,Capietto, A.,Chavance, P.,Dubroca, L.,Delgado De Molina, A.,Murua, H.,Gaertner, D.,Romanov, E.,Spitz, J.,Kiszka, J. J.,Floch, L.,Damiano, A.,Merigot, B.},
url = {http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v522/p255-268/},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Marine Ecology Progress Series},
volume = {522},
number = {370},
pages = {255-268},
abstract = {ABSTRACT: Fisheries bycatch is considered to be one of the most significant causes of mortality for many marine species, including vulnerable megafauna. In the open ocean, tuna purse seiners are known to use several cetacean species to detect tuna schools. This exposes the cetaceans to encirclement which can lead to incidental injury or death. While interactions between fishers and cetaceans have been well documented in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, little is known about these interactions and potential mortalities in the tropical Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Here, we provide the first quantification of these interactions in both oceans by analyzing a large database of captain’s logbooks (1980 to 2011) and observations collected by onboard scientific observers (1995 to 2011). Distribution maps of sightings per unit effort highlighted main areas of relatively high co-occurrence: east of the Seychelles (December to March), the Mozambique Channel (April to May) and the offshore waters of Gabon (April to September). The percentage of cetacean-associated fishing sets was around 3% in both oceans and datasets whereas 0.6% of sets had cetaceans encircled. Of the 194 cetaceans encircled in a purse seine net (122 baleen whales, 72 delphinids), immediate apparent survival rates were high (Atlantic: 92%, Indian: 100%). Among recorded mortalities, 8 involved pantropical spotted dolphins \textit{Stenella attenuata} and 3 involved humpback whales \textit{Megaptera novaeangliae}. These high survival rates suggest that setting nets close to cetaceans has a low immediate apparent impact on the species involved. Our findings will contribute to the development of an ecosystem approach to managing fisheries and accurate cetacean conservation measures.},
keywords = {Atlantic, Bycatch, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, Indian Ocean, megaptera novaeangliae, purse-Seine, tuna fishery},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
ABSTRACT: Fisheries bycatch is considered to be one of the most significant causes of mortality for many marine species, including vulnerable megafauna. In the open ocean, tuna purse seiners are known to use several cetacean species to detect tuna schools. This exposes the cetaceans to encirclement which can lead to incidental injury or death. While interactions between fishers and cetaceans have been well documented in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, little is known about these interactions and potential mortalities in the tropical Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Here, we provide the first quantification of these interactions in both oceans by analyzing a large database of captain’s logbooks (1980 to 2011) and observations collected by onboard scientific observers (1995 to 2011). Distribution maps of sightings per unit effort highlighted main areas of relatively high co-occurrence: east of the Seychelles (December to March), the Mozambique Channel (April to May) and the offshore waters of Gabon (April to September). The percentage of cetacean-associated fishing sets was around 3% in both oceans and datasets whereas 0.6% of sets had cetaceans encircled. Of the 194 cetaceans encircled in a purse seine net (122 baleen whales, 72 delphinids), immediate apparent survival rates were high (Atlantic: 92%, Indian: 100%). Among recorded mortalities, 8 involved pantropical spotted dolphins Stenella attenuata and 3 involved humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae. These high survival rates suggest that setting nets close to cetaceans has a low immediate apparent impact on the species involved. Our findings will contribute to the development of an ecosystem approach to managing fisheries and accurate cetacean conservation measures.
Mahanty, Madan M,Latha, G,Thirunavukkarasu, A
Analysis of humpback whale sounds in shallow waters of the Southeastern Arabian Sea: An indication of breeding habitat Journal Article
In: Journal of biosciences, vol. 40, no. 148, pp. 407-417, 2015, ISBN: 0250-5991.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, behaviour, breeding grounds, Humpback Whale, India, megaptera novaeangliae, song
@article{,
title = {Analysis of humpback whale sounds in shallow waters of the Southeastern Arabian Sea: An indication of breeding habitat},
author = {Mahanty, Madan M,Latha, G,Thirunavukkarasu, A},
issn = {0250-5991},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Journal of biosciences},
volume = {40},
number = {148},
pages = {407-417},
abstract = {The primary objective of this work was to present the acoustical identification of humpback whales, detected by using
an autonomous ambient noise measurement system, deployed in the shallow waters of the Southeastern Arabian Sea
(SEAS) during the period January to May 2011. Seven types of sounds were detected. These were characteristically
upsweeps and downsweeps along with harmonics. Sounds produced repeatedly in a specific pattern were referred to as
phrases (PQRS and ABC). Repeated phrases in a particular pattern were referred to as themes, and from the
spectrographic analysis, two themes (I and II) were identified. The variation in the acoustic characteristics such as
fundamental frequency, range, duration of the sound unit, and the structure of the phrases and themes are discussed.
Sound units were recorded from mid-January to mid-March, with a peak in February, when the mean SST is ~28°C,
and no presence was recorded after mid-March. The temporal and thematic structures strongly determine the functions
of the humpback whale song form. Given the use of song in the SEAS, this area is possibly used as an active breeding
habitat by humpback whales during the winter season.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, behaviour, breeding grounds, Humpback Whale, India, megaptera novaeangliae, song},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The primary objective of this work was to present the acoustical identification of humpback whales, detected by using
an autonomous ambient noise measurement system, deployed in the shallow waters of the Southeastern Arabian Sea
(SEAS) during the period January to May 2011. Seven types of sounds were detected. These were characteristically
upsweeps and downsweeps along with harmonics. Sounds produced repeatedly in a specific pattern were referred to as
phrases (PQRS and ABC). Repeated phrases in a particular pattern were referred to as themes, and from the
spectrographic analysis, two themes (I and II) were identified. The variation in the acoustic characteristics such as
fundamental frequency, range, duration of the sound unit, and the structure of the phrases and themes are discussed.
Sound units were recorded from mid-January to mid-March, with a peak in February, when the mean SST is ~28°C,
and no presence was recorded after mid-March. The temporal and thematic structures strongly determine the functions
of the humpback whale song form. Given the use of song in the SEAS, this area is possibly used as an active breeding
habitat by humpback whales during the winter season.
an autonomous ambient noise measurement system, deployed in the shallow waters of the Southeastern Arabian Sea
(SEAS) during the period January to May 2011. Seven types of sounds were detected. These were characteristically
upsweeps and downsweeps along with harmonics. Sounds produced repeatedly in a specific pattern were referred to as
phrases (PQRS and ABC). Repeated phrases in a particular pattern were referred to as themes, and from the
spectrographic analysis, two themes (I and II) were identified. The variation in the acoustic characteristics such as
fundamental frequency, range, duration of the sound unit, and the structure of the phrases and themes are discussed.
Sound units were recorded from mid-January to mid-March, with a peak in February, when the mean SST is ~28°C,
and no presence was recorded after mid-March. The temporal and thematic structures strongly determine the functions
of the humpback whale song form. Given the use of song in the SEAS, this area is possibly used as an active breeding
habitat by humpback whales during the winter season.
Minton, G.,Reeves, R. R.,Collins, T.J.Q.,Willson, Andrew
Report on the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Workshop: Developing a collaborative research and conservation strategy Technical Report
no. 417, 2015.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, conservation, Humpback Whale, management, megaptera novaeangliae
@techreport{,
title = {Report on the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Workshop: Developing a collaborative research and conservation strategy},
author = {Minton, G.,Reeves, R. R.,Collins, T.J.Q.,Willson, Andrew},
url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/arabian-sea-humpback-whale-workshop-report-_final2-1.pdf},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
number = {417},
pages = {50},
abstract = {Executive Summary
Humpback whales in the Arabian Sea (ASHWs) form a discrete population that is designated as an endangered
“subpopulation” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The primary objective of the workshop was to
bring together regional scientists and conservationists who share concern for ASHWs (and other cetaceans in
the region) and to begin developing a unified, collaborative research and conservation strategy that could be
readily communicated to governments, intergovernmental organizations non-governmental organizations,
donors and research colleagues.
Researchers and international experts presented summaries of what is known about the distribution, biology
and threats to humpback whales in each of the represented Arabian Sea range states, as well as information
about research techniques and tools for collaboration that could facilitate the implementation of a regional
conservation-based research strategy.
Participants identified the main threats to whales in the region and knowledge gaps that must be filled in order
to assess and protect ASHWs. Almost all current knowledge about this population is based on data collected in
the Sultanate of Oman, which is the only country in which dedicated humpback whale research has taken
place in recent years. The shortage of information on the population’s full range and population size outside
of Oman is one of the most significant impediments to the pursuit of a regional conservation strategy. Many
of the workshop recommendations focus on harnessing the formal and informal networks and capacity of
participants to fill these knowledge gaps.
The workshop made the following recommendations for follow-up action:
1. Form an Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Research Network: To include development of a mission
statement and objectives and a clear set of conservation- and research-related roles for the members
2. Identify a focal point in each ASHW range state responsible for liaising with the network coordination
team and for 1) verification and documentation of all ASHW stranding and sighting reports, 2)
working with local communities, coastguards and others to collect data opportunistically and 3)
assistance in drafting funding proposals and research plans for country-based or cross-border priority
areas (in the most likely suspected current range of ASHW)
3. Develop a common (web-based) platform for sharing documents, data and research protocols among
network members. To include, if possible, a regional Photo-ID matching platform.
4. Establish data-sharing agreements for any web-based/group-wide data repositories, and memoranda
of understanding between partners who embark on shared analyses to ensure proper data ownership
and publication rights.
5. Produce a "glossy” presentation of ASHW background and conservation concerns that network
partners can use to raise awareness and attract funding.
6. Engage in dedicated fund-raising efforts to support network coordination and research activities at
both national and regional scales.
7. Implement regional research activities that include passive acoustic monitoring at strategic locations,
dedicated boat surveys for genetic sampling, photo-Identification and collecting data on distribution
and numbers, and further analyses of acoustic and genetic data already obtained from Oman and
other locations.
8. Create a common pool of equipment and other resources that can be used for research and analysis
in different range states as required
4
9. Encourage Master’s and PhD candidates from range states to conduct research and conservation
work on ASHWs.
10. Execute a large-scale GIS exercise - mapping all known/confirmed ASHW sightings (with effort indices
when available) and strandings for analysis of spatial/temporal trends, as well as overlap with known
threats (e.g. shipping lanes, high-density fisheries that use gillnets or vertical lines, oil and gas
exploration and development sites).
11. Maintain liaisons with international and inter-governmental organisations that can support the
network’s aims and objectives and ensure that network findings/results are applied toward regional
and international management and conservation frameworks.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, conservation, Humpback Whale, management, megaptera novaeangliae},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Executive Summary
Humpback whales in the Arabian Sea (ASHWs) form a discrete population that is designated as an endangered
“subpopulation” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The primary objective of the workshop was to
bring together regional scientists and conservationists who share concern for ASHWs (and other cetaceans in
the region) and to begin developing a unified, collaborative research and conservation strategy that could be
readily communicated to governments, intergovernmental organizations non-governmental organizations,
donors and research colleagues.
Researchers and international experts presented summaries of what is known about the distribution, biology
and threats to humpback whales in each of the represented Arabian Sea range states, as well as information
about research techniques and tools for collaboration that could facilitate the implementation of a regional
conservation-based research strategy.
Participants identified the main threats to whales in the region and knowledge gaps that must be filled in order
to assess and protect ASHWs. Almost all current knowledge about this population is based on data collected in
the Sultanate of Oman, which is the only country in which dedicated humpback whale research has taken
place in recent years. The shortage of information on the population’s full range and population size outside
of Oman is one of the most significant impediments to the pursuit of a regional conservation strategy. Many
of the workshop recommendations focus on harnessing the formal and informal networks and capacity of
participants to fill these knowledge gaps.
The workshop made the following recommendations for follow-up action:
1. Form an Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Research Network: To include development of a mission
statement and objectives and a clear set of conservation- and research-related roles for the members
2. Identify a focal point in each ASHW range state responsible for liaising with the network coordination
team and for 1) verification and documentation of all ASHW stranding and sighting reports, 2)
working with local communities, coastguards and others to collect data opportunistically and 3)
assistance in drafting funding proposals and research plans for country-based or cross-border priority
areas (in the most likely suspected current range of ASHW)
3. Develop a common (web-based) platform for sharing documents, data and research protocols among
network members. To include, if possible, a regional Photo-ID matching platform.
4. Establish data-sharing agreements for any web-based/group-wide data repositories, and memoranda
of understanding between partners who embark on shared analyses to ensure proper data ownership
and publication rights.
5. Produce a "glossy” presentation of ASHW background and conservation concerns that network
partners can use to raise awareness and attract funding.
6. Engage in dedicated fund-raising efforts to support network coordination and research activities at
both national and regional scales.
7. Implement regional research activities that include passive acoustic monitoring at strategic locations,
dedicated boat surveys for genetic sampling, photo-Identification and collecting data on distribution
and numbers, and further analyses of acoustic and genetic data already obtained from Oman and
other locations.
8. Create a common pool of equipment and other resources that can be used for research and analysis
in different range states as required
4
9. Encourage Master’s and PhD candidates from range states to conduct research and conservation
work on ASHWs.
10. Execute a large-scale GIS exercise - mapping all known/confirmed ASHW sightings (with effort indices
when available) and strandings for analysis of spatial/temporal trends, as well as overlap with known
threats (e.g. shipping lanes, high-density fisheries that use gillnets or vertical lines, oil and gas
exploration and development sites).
11. Maintain liaisons with international and inter-governmental organisations that can support the
network’s aims and objectives and ensure that network findings/results are applied toward regional
and international management and conservation frameworks.
Humpback whales in the Arabian Sea (ASHWs) form a discrete population that is designated as an endangered
“subpopulation” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The primary objective of the workshop was to
bring together regional scientists and conservationists who share concern for ASHWs (and other cetaceans in
the region) and to begin developing a unified, collaborative research and conservation strategy that could be
readily communicated to governments, intergovernmental organizations non-governmental organizations,
donors and research colleagues.
Researchers and international experts presented summaries of what is known about the distribution, biology
and threats to humpback whales in each of the represented Arabian Sea range states, as well as information
about research techniques and tools for collaboration that could facilitate the implementation of a regional
conservation-based research strategy.
Participants identified the main threats to whales in the region and knowledge gaps that must be filled in order
to assess and protect ASHWs. Almost all current knowledge about this population is based on data collected in
the Sultanate of Oman, which is the only country in which dedicated humpback whale research has taken
place in recent years. The shortage of information on the population’s full range and population size outside
of Oman is one of the most significant impediments to the pursuit of a regional conservation strategy. Many
of the workshop recommendations focus on harnessing the formal and informal networks and capacity of
participants to fill these knowledge gaps.
The workshop made the following recommendations for follow-up action:
1. Form an Arabian Sea Humpback Whale Research Network: To include development of a mission
statement and objectives and a clear set of conservation- and research-related roles for the members
2. Identify a focal point in each ASHW range state responsible for liaising with the network coordination
team and for 1) verification and documentation of all ASHW stranding and sighting reports, 2)
working with local communities, coastguards and others to collect data opportunistically and 3)
assistance in drafting funding proposals and research plans for country-based or cross-border priority
areas (in the most likely suspected current range of ASHW)
3. Develop a common (web-based) platform for sharing documents, data and research protocols among
network members. To include, if possible, a regional Photo-ID matching platform.
4. Establish data-sharing agreements for any web-based/group-wide data repositories, and memoranda
of understanding between partners who embark on shared analyses to ensure proper data ownership
and publication rights.
5. Produce a "glossy” presentation of ASHW background and conservation concerns that network
partners can use to raise awareness and attract funding.
6. Engage in dedicated fund-raising efforts to support network coordination and research activities at
both national and regional scales.
7. Implement regional research activities that include passive acoustic monitoring at strategic locations,
dedicated boat surveys for genetic sampling, photo-Identification and collecting data on distribution
and numbers, and further analyses of acoustic and genetic data already obtained from Oman and
other locations.
8. Create a common pool of equipment and other resources that can be used for research and analysis
in different range states as required
4
9. Encourage Master’s and PhD candidates from range states to conduct research and conservation
work on ASHWs.
10. Execute a large-scale GIS exercise - mapping all known/confirmed ASHW sightings (with effort indices
when available) and strandings for analysis of spatial/temporal trends, as well as overlap with known
threats (e.g. shipping lanes, high-density fisheries that use gillnets or vertical lines, oil and gas
exploration and development sites).
11. Maintain liaisons with international and inter-governmental organisations that can support the
network’s aims and objectives and ensure that network findings/results are applied toward regional
and international management and conservation frameworks.
Nanayakkara, Ranil P.,Herath, H. M. J. C. B.,Mel, Ruvinda K. de,Kusuminda, T. G. Tharaka
Molecular Genetic Identification of Beached Whales in Sri Lanka from Mitochondrial DNA Sequence Data Journal Article
In: Ceylon Journal of Science, vol. 43, no. 179, pp. 73, 2015.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, genetics, Indian Ocean, mtDNA, Sri Lanka
@article{,
title = {Molecular Genetic Identification of Beached Whales in Sri Lanka from Mitochondrial DNA Sequence Data},
author = {Nanayakkara, Ranil P.,Herath, H. M. J. C. B.,Mel, Ruvinda K. de,Kusuminda, T. G. Tharaka},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Ceylon Journal of Science},
volume = {43},
number = {179},
pages = {73},
abstract = {In the current study we attempt to identify eight baleen whale carcasses that were washed ashore to the Western, Northwestern and Southern coasts of Sri Lanka in 2010, using molecular phylogenetic techniques. Initial physical examination suggested that these carcasses belonged to blue whales ( Balaenoptera musculus ). Analysis of sequences of the mitochondrial control region from baleen whales confirmed that the samples belonged to blue whales ( Balaenoptera musculus ). However, it was impossible to identify the population of blue whales the individuals belonged to, due to the lack of strong population genetic signals in the mitochondrial control region sequences.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, genetics, Indian Ocean, mtDNA, Sri Lanka},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
In the current study we attempt to identify eight baleen whale carcasses that were washed ashore to the Western, Northwestern and Southern coasts of Sri Lanka in 2010, using molecular phylogenetic techniques. Initial physical examination suggested that these carcasses belonged to blue whales ( Balaenoptera musculus ). Analysis of sequences of the mitochondrial control region from baleen whales confirmed that the samples belonged to blue whales ( Balaenoptera musculus ). However, it was impossible to identify the population of blue whales the individuals belonged to, due to the lack of strong population genetic signals in the mitochondrial control region sequences.
Nanayakkara, Ranil P.,Herath, Jayampathi,de Mel, Ruvinda K.
Cetacean Presence in the Trincomalee Bay and Adjacent Waters, Sri Lanka Journal Article
In: Journal of Marine Biology, vol. 2014, no. 180, pp. 819263, 2014, ISBN: 2633-4666.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Bryde’s whale, Distribution, diversity, Indian Ocean, Physeter macrocephalus, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, Sri Lanka, Stenella longirostris
@article{,
title = {Cetacean Presence in the Trincomalee Bay and Adjacent Waters, Sri Lanka},
author = {Nanayakkara, Ranil P.,Herath, Jayampathi,de Mel, Ruvinda K.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/819263},
issn = {2633-4666},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Marine Biology},
volume = {2014},
number = {180},
pages = {819263},
publisher = {Hindawi Publishing Corporation},
abstract = {In Sri Lanka thirty species of cetaceans have been recorded to date. The canyon at Trincomalee bay is a multiple submarine canyon complex and anecdotal reports suggest that the Trincomalee bay and its adjacent waters are utilised by a number of cetacean species. Though Cetaceans are known to be abundant in the waters off Trincomalee there is a dearth of research and data pertaining to the abundance and species frequenting the Trincomalee bay and its adjacent waters. As such the current study was initiated, to get a consensus of the abundance and occurrences of species in Trincomalee Bay and its adjacent waters. Field surveys were carried out for 19 months and the research platform was a 35-foot commercial fishing vessel. 177 cetacean encounters were recorded on 67 of the 75 field days. Remarkably a total of 11 species of cetaceans which composed of two species of Baleen Whales and nine species of Toothed Whales were recorded. Delphinidae was the most common family recorded, followed by Balaenopteridae, Ziphiidae, Physeteridae, and Kogiidae. Spinner Dolphins were the most abundant cetacean owing to the large pods observed and the regularity of the sightings. They were the only species seen feeding/traveling with birds and fish (tuna). Sperm Whales, Blue Whales, and Bryde’s Whales were also relatively common. Two records of interspecific association between cetaceans were recorded. The increase in the human population in the study area has resulted in the overexploitation of marine resources which has dire repercussions on the marine mammal communities found in these waters.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Bryde’s whale, Distribution, diversity, Indian Ocean, Physeter macrocephalus, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, Sri Lanka, Stenella longirostris},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
In Sri Lanka thirty species of cetaceans have been recorded to date. The canyon at Trincomalee bay is a multiple submarine canyon complex and anecdotal reports suggest that the Trincomalee bay and its adjacent waters are utilised by a number of cetacean species. Though Cetaceans are known to be abundant in the waters off Trincomalee there is a dearth of research and data pertaining to the abundance and species frequenting the Trincomalee bay and its adjacent waters. As such the current study was initiated, to get a consensus of the abundance and occurrences of species in Trincomalee Bay and its adjacent waters. Field surveys were carried out for 19 months and the research platform was a 35-foot commercial fishing vessel. 177 cetacean encounters were recorded on 67 of the 75 field days. Remarkably a total of 11 species of cetaceans which composed of two species of Baleen Whales and nine species of Toothed Whales were recorded. Delphinidae was the most common family recorded, followed by Balaenopteridae, Ziphiidae, Physeteridae, and Kogiidae. Spinner Dolphins were the most abundant cetacean owing to the large pods observed and the regularity of the sightings. They were the only species seen feeding/traveling with birds and fish (tuna). Sperm Whales, Blue Whales, and Bryde’s Whales were also relatively common. Two records of interspecific association between cetaceans were recorded. The increase in the human population in the study area has resulted in the overexploitation of marine resources which has dire repercussions on the marine mammal communities found in these waters.
Nanayakkara, Ranil P,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas A
Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin ( Journal Article
In: Aquatic Mammals, vol. 40, no. 182, pp. 398, 2014, ISBN: 0167-5427.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, photo identification, population status, sousa, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka, Threat assessment
@article{,
title = {Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin (},
author = {Nanayakkara, Ranil P,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas A},
issn = {0167-5427},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Aquatic Mammals},
volume = {40},
number = {182},
pages = {398},
abstract = { Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, photo identification, population status, sousa, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka, Threat assessment},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.
Pilcher, Nicolas J.,Antonopoulou, Marina,Perry, Lisa,Abdel-Moati, Mohamed A.,Al Abdessalaam, Thabit Zahran,Albeldawi, Mohammad,Al Ansi, Mehsin,Al-Mohannadi, Salman Fahad,Al Zahlawi, Nessrine,Baldwin, Robert,Chikhi, Ahmed,Das, Himansu Sekhar,Hamza, Shafeeq,Kerr, Oliver J.,Al Kiyumi, Ali,Mobaraki, Asghar,Al Suwaidi, Hana Saif,Al Suweidi, Ali Saqar,Sawaf, Moaz,Tourenq, Christophe,Williams, James,Willson, Andrew
Identification of Important Sea Turtle Areas (ITAs) for hawksbill turtles in the Arabian Region Journal Article
In: Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology, vol. 460, no. 428, pp. 89-99, 2014, ISBN: 0022-0981.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Conservation and management, Eretmochelys imbricata, habitat use, Persian Gulf, Satellite tracking
@article{,
title = {Identification of Important Sea Turtle Areas (ITAs) for hawksbill turtles in the Arabian Region},
author = {Pilcher, Nicolas J.,Antonopoulou, Marina,Perry, Lisa,Abdel-Moati, Mohamed A.,Al Abdessalaam, Thabit Zahran,Albeldawi, Mohammad,Al Ansi, Mehsin,Al-Mohannadi, Salman Fahad,Al Zahlawi, Nessrine,Baldwin, Robert,Chikhi, Ahmed,Das, Himansu Sekhar,Hamza, Shafeeq,Kerr, Oliver J.,Al Kiyumi, Ali,Mobaraki, Asghar,Al Suwaidi, Hana Saif,Al Suweidi, Ali Saqar,Sawaf, Moaz,Tourenq, Christophe,Williams, James,Willson, Andrew},
url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022098114001816},
issn = {0022-0981},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology},
volume = {460},
number = {428},
pages = {89-99},
abstract = {We present the first data on hawksbill turtle post-nesting migrations and behaviour in the Arabian region. Tracks from 90 post-nesting turtles (65 in the Gulf and 25 from Oman) revealed that hawksbills in the Arabian region may nest up to 6 times in a season with an average of 3 nests per turtle. Turtles from Qatar, Iran and the UAE generally migrated south and southwest to waters shared by the UAE and Qatar. A smaller number of turtles migrated northward towards Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and one reached Kuwait. Omani turtles migrated south towards Masirah island and to Quwayrah, staying close to the mainland and over the continental shelf. The widespread dispersal of hawksbill foraging grounds across the SW Gulf may limit habitat protection options available to managers, and we suggest these be linked to preservation of shallow water habitats and fishery management. In contrast, the two main foraging areas in Oman were small and could be candidates for protected area consideration. Critical migration bottlenecks were identified at the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula as turtles from Daymaniyat Islands migrate southward, and between Qatar and Bahrain. Overall, Gulf turtles spent 68% of the time in foraging ground with home ranges of 40–60 km2 and small core areas of 6 km2. Adult female turtles from Oman were significantly larger than Gulf turtles by ~ 11 cm x ¯ = 81.4 CCL and spent 83% of their time foraging in smaller home ranges with even smaller core areas (~ 3 km2), likely due to better habitat quality and food availability. Gulf turtles were among the smallest in the world x ¯ = 70.3 CCL and spent an average of 20% of time undertaking summer migration loops, a thermoregulatory response to avoid elevated sea surface temperatures, as the Gulf regularly experiences sustained sea surface temperatures > 30 °C. Fishery bycatch was determined for two of the 90 turtles. These spatio-temporal findings on habitat use will enable risk assessments for turtles in the face of multiple threats including oil and gas industries, urban and industrial development, fishery pressure, and shipping. They also improve our overall understanding of hawksbill habitat use and behaviour in the Arabian region, and will support sea turtle conservation-related policy decision-making at national and regional levels.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Conservation and management, Eretmochelys imbricata, habitat use, Persian Gulf, Satellite tracking},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
We present the first data on hawksbill turtle post-nesting migrations and behaviour in the Arabian region. Tracks from 90 post-nesting turtles (65 in the Gulf and 25 from Oman) revealed that hawksbills in the Arabian region may nest up to 6 times in a season with an average of 3 nests per turtle. Turtles from Qatar, Iran and the UAE generally migrated south and southwest to waters shared by the UAE and Qatar. A smaller number of turtles migrated northward towards Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and one reached Kuwait. Omani turtles migrated south towards Masirah island and to Quwayrah, staying close to the mainland and over the continental shelf. The widespread dispersal of hawksbill foraging grounds across the SW Gulf may limit habitat protection options available to managers, and we suggest these be linked to preservation of shallow water habitats and fishery management. In contrast, the two main foraging areas in Oman were small and could be candidates for protected area consideration. Critical migration bottlenecks were identified at the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula as turtles from Daymaniyat Islands migrate southward, and between Qatar and Bahrain. Overall, Gulf turtles spent 68% of the time in foraging ground with home ranges of 40–60 km2 and small core areas of 6 km2. Adult female turtles from Oman were significantly larger than Gulf turtles by ~ 11 cm x ¯ = 81.4 CCL and spent 83% of their time foraging in smaller home ranges with even smaller core areas (~ 3 km2), likely due to better habitat quality and food availability. Gulf turtles were among the smallest in the world x ¯ = 70.3 CCL and spent an average of 20% of time undertaking summer migration loops, a thermoregulatory response to avoid elevated sea surface temperatures, as the Gulf regularly experiences sustained sea surface temperatures > 30 °C. Fishery bycatch was determined for two of the 90 turtles. These spatio-temporal findings on habitat use will enable risk assessments for turtles in the face of multiple threats including oil and gas industries, urban and industrial development, fishery pressure, and shipping. They also improve our overall understanding of hawksbill habitat use and behaviour in the Arabian region, and will support sea turtle conservation-related policy decision-making at national and regional levels.
Pomilla, Cristina,Amaral, Ana R.,Collins, Tim,Minton, Gianna,Findlay, Ken,Leslie, Matthew S.,Ponnampalam, Louisa,Baldwin, Robert,Rosenbaum, Howard
The World's Most Isolated and Distinct Whale Population? Humpback Whales of the Arabian Sea Journal Article
In: PLoS ONE, vol. 9, no. 194, pp. e114162, 2014.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Evolution, Genetic differentiation, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, population identity, Stock identity, Threats
@article{,
title = {The World's Most Isolated and Distinct Whale Population? Humpback Whales of the Arabian Sea},
author = {Pomilla, Cristina,Amaral, Ana R.,Collins, Tim,Minton, Gianna,Findlay, Ken,Leslie, Matthew S.,Ponnampalam, Louisa,Baldwin, Robert,Rosenbaum, Howard},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0114162},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {PLoS ONE},
volume = {9},
number = {194},
pages = {e114162},
publisher = {Public Library of Science},
abstract = {A clear understanding of population structure is essential for assessing conservation status and implementing management strategies. A small, non-migratory population of humpback whales in the Arabian Sea is classified as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, an assessment constrained by a lack of data, including limited understanding of its relationship to other populations. We analysed 11 microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequences extracted from 67 Arabian Sea humpback whale tissue samples and compared them to equivalent datasets from the Southern Hemisphere and North Pacific. Results show that the Arabian Sea population is highly distinct; estimates of gene flow and divergence times suggest a Southern Indian Ocean origin but indicate that it has been isolated for approximately 70,000 years, remarkable for a species that is typically highly migratory. Genetic diversity values are significantly lower than those obtained for Southern Hemisphere populations and signatures of ancient and recent genetic bottlenecks were identified. Our findings suggest this is the world's most isolated humpback whale population, which, when combined with low population abundance estimates and anthropogenic threats, raises concern for its survival. We recommend an amendment of the status of the population to “Critically Endangered” on the IUCN Red List.
},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Evolution, Genetic differentiation, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, population identity, Stock identity, Threats},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
A clear understanding of population structure is essential for assessing conservation status and implementing management strategies. A small, non-migratory population of humpback whales in the Arabian Sea is classified as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, an assessment constrained by a lack of data, including limited understanding of its relationship to other populations. We analysed 11 microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequences extracted from 67 Arabian Sea humpback whale tissue samples and compared them to equivalent datasets from the Southern Hemisphere and North Pacific. Results show that the Arabian Sea population is highly distinct; estimates of gene flow and divergence times suggest a Southern Indian Ocean origin but indicate that it has been isolated for approximately 70,000 years, remarkable for a species that is typically highly migratory. Genetic diversity values are significantly lower than those obtained for Southern Hemisphere populations and signatures of ancient and recent genetic bottlenecks were identified. Our findings suggest this is the world's most isolated humpback whale population, which, when combined with low population abundance estimates and anthropogenic threats, raises concern for its survival. We recommend an amendment of the status of the population to “Critically Endangered” on the IUCN Red List.
Anderson, R Charles
Cetaceans and tuna fisheries in the Western and Central Indian Ocean Journal Article
In: International Pole and Line Federation Technical Report, vol. 2, no. 10, pp. 133, 2014.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, Gill net, mitigation, Northern Indian Ocean, Regional management units, Tuna
@article{,
title = {Cetaceans and tuna fisheries in the Western and Central Indian Ocean},
author = {Anderson, R Charles},
url = {http://www.fao.org/3/a-bg252e.pdf},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {International Pole and Line Federation Technical Report},
volume = {2},
number = {10},
pages = {133},
abstract = {This report reviews information on interactions between cetaceans (whales and
dolphins) and tuna fisheries in the western and central Indian Ocean. The average
annual catch of tuna and related species in the Indian Ocean was just over 1.5 million
tonnes during 2008-12. Of this, almost 1.1 million tonnes (71%) came from the
western and central Indian Ocean. The main fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species
in the region are gillnet (40% of reported catch during 2008-12), purse seine (26%),
longline (12%), handline and troll (11%) and pole-and-line (9%).
Major gillnet fishing nations include Iran, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Oman and Yemen.
Cetacean bycatch must be large, but is poorly documented. A rough estimation,
based on the limited published information available, suggests that something
in excess of 60,000 small cetaceans might be taken as bycatch each year. There is
an urgent need for monitoring and management of these fisheries including the
development of mitigation methods to reduce cetacean bycatch. Large-scale gillnetting
on the high seas (using nets in excess of 2.5km length) is banned by both
UN convention and IOTC resolution, but is being carried out by Iran, Pakistan and
possibly also other countries; compliance is required. More generally, the large and
still expanding gillnet capacity within the region needs to be assessed, and if appropriate
either capped or reduced.
Purse seining in the western and central Indian Ocean is dominated by French and
Spanish fleets. An increasing proportion of sets is made on drifting fish aggregating
devices (FADs) but there has been, and continues to be, a considerable number of
sets made on free schools (i.e. non-FAD-associated tuna schools). Most cetaceans do
not regularly associate with FADs and the major potential cetacean interactions are
with free school sets. During 1981-1999, 9.6% of all sets were reported to have been
made in association with baleen whales, probably Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera
brydei). When encircled, most whales are reported to escape by breaking through
the net. Mortality is unknown, but may have been of the order of 10s annually. The
association of free schools of large yellowfin tuna with dolphins (mostly spotted
dolphins Stenella attenuata and spinner dolphins Stenella longrostris) is more contentious.
This association (which is common in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and is
exploited by the purse seine fishery there) has always been reported to be rare in the
western Indian Ocean. However, the tuna-dolphin association is common in many
coastal areas of the region and widespread in the high seas of the western Indian
Ocean north of 10°S. Setting on dolphin schools has been also reported to be rare,
but its true scale is questioned. Setting on cetaceans has recently been banned by
EU regulation (2007) and IOTC resolution (2013), so cetacean bycatch and mortality
should be much reduced in the future. 100% coverage by international observers
would be ideal.
Longline fisheries were dominated for several decades by East Asian nations, but
now increasing catches are made by coastal countries, notably India, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. A major issue for longliners is depredation – removal of bait and damage
of hooked fish by sharks and cetaceans. Several species of cetacean have been
implicated, but the main one appears to be the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens).
There is also some entanglement of cetaceans in longlines (likely following
attempts at depredation). Development of mitigation measures is on-going and
needs to be continued. It is possible that some longline fishermen are deliberately
killing cetaceans.
Several coastal countries have handline fisheries for large yellowfin tuna, which fishermen
locate by their association with dolphins (mainly spotted and spinner dolphins).
There is anecdotal evidence that some dolphins are hooked. Although they
invariably break free or are released, the scale of any post-release mortality or of
sub-lethal impacts is unknown. From the Maldivian pole-and-line fishery, there are
reports of dolphins (probably Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus)
taking fish attracted by the lights used during night bait fishing. The scale and potential
impacts of these interactions require assessment.
There has been a widespread failure to monitor and manage cetacean bycatch in
Indian Ocean tuna fisheries, and to develop and implement mitigation measures.
The enormous, and still growing, gillnet capacity in the region should be of particular
concern. There is a need for increased observer coverage of all fisheries, supplemented
by electronic monitoring. Fishery-independent surveys of cetacean distribution
and abundance in the western Indian Ocean are also required to inform
management.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, Gill net, mitigation, Northern Indian Ocean, Regional management units, Tuna},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
This report reviews information on interactions between cetaceans (whales and
dolphins) and tuna fisheries in the western and central Indian Ocean. The average
annual catch of tuna and related species in the Indian Ocean was just over 1.5 million
tonnes during 2008-12. Of this, almost 1.1 million tonnes (71%) came from the
western and central Indian Ocean. The main fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species
in the region are gillnet (40% of reported catch during 2008-12), purse seine (26%),
longline (12%), handline and troll (11%) and pole-and-line (9%).
Major gillnet fishing nations include Iran, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Oman and Yemen.
Cetacean bycatch must be large, but is poorly documented. A rough estimation,
based on the limited published information available, suggests that something
in excess of 60,000 small cetaceans might be taken as bycatch each year. There is
an urgent need for monitoring and management of these fisheries including the
development of mitigation methods to reduce cetacean bycatch. Large-scale gillnetting
on the high seas (using nets in excess of 2.5km length) is banned by both
UN convention and IOTC resolution, but is being carried out by Iran, Pakistan and
possibly also other countries; compliance is required. More generally, the large and
still expanding gillnet capacity within the region needs to be assessed, and if appropriate
either capped or reduced.
Purse seining in the western and central Indian Ocean is dominated by French and
Spanish fleets. An increasing proportion of sets is made on drifting fish aggregating
devices (FADs) but there has been, and continues to be, a considerable number of
sets made on free schools (i.e. non-FAD-associated tuna schools). Most cetaceans do
not regularly associate with FADs and the major potential cetacean interactions are
with free school sets. During 1981-1999, 9.6% of all sets were reported to have been
made in association with baleen whales, probably Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera
brydei). When encircled, most whales are reported to escape by breaking through
the net. Mortality is unknown, but may have been of the order of 10s annually. The
association of free schools of large yellowfin tuna with dolphins (mostly spotted
dolphins Stenella attenuata and spinner dolphins Stenella longrostris) is more contentious.
This association (which is common in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and is
exploited by the purse seine fishery there) has always been reported to be rare in the
western Indian Ocean. However, the tuna-dolphin association is common in many
coastal areas of the region and widespread in the high seas of the western Indian
Ocean north of 10°S. Setting on dolphin schools has been also reported to be rare,
but its true scale is questioned. Setting on cetaceans has recently been banned by
EU regulation (2007) and IOTC resolution (2013), so cetacean bycatch and mortality
should be much reduced in the future. 100% coverage by international observers
would be ideal.
Longline fisheries were dominated for several decades by East Asian nations, but
now increasing catches are made by coastal countries, notably India, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. A major issue for longliners is depredation – removal of bait and damage
of hooked fish by sharks and cetaceans. Several species of cetacean have been
implicated, but the main one appears to be the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens).
There is also some entanglement of cetaceans in longlines (likely following
attempts at depredation). Development of mitigation measures is on-going and
needs to be continued. It is possible that some longline fishermen are deliberately
killing cetaceans.
Several coastal countries have handline fisheries for large yellowfin tuna, which fishermen
locate by their association with dolphins (mainly spotted and spinner dolphins).
There is anecdotal evidence that some dolphins are hooked. Although they
invariably break free or are released, the scale of any post-release mortality or of
sub-lethal impacts is unknown. From the Maldivian pole-and-line fishery, there are
reports of dolphins (probably Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus)
taking fish attracted by the lights used during night bait fishing. The scale and potential
impacts of these interactions require assessment.
There has been a widespread failure to monitor and manage cetacean bycatch in
Indian Ocean tuna fisheries, and to develop and implement mitigation measures.
The enormous, and still growing, gillnet capacity in the region should be of particular
concern. There is a need for increased observer coverage of all fisheries, supplemented
by electronic monitoring. Fishery-independent surveys of cetacean distribution
and abundance in the western Indian Ocean are also required to inform
management.
dolphins) and tuna fisheries in the western and central Indian Ocean. The average
annual catch of tuna and related species in the Indian Ocean was just over 1.5 million
tonnes during 2008-12. Of this, almost 1.1 million tonnes (71%) came from the
western and central Indian Ocean. The main fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species
in the region are gillnet (40% of reported catch during 2008-12), purse seine (26%),
longline (12%), handline and troll (11%) and pole-and-line (9%).
Major gillnet fishing nations include Iran, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Oman and Yemen.
Cetacean bycatch must be large, but is poorly documented. A rough estimation,
based on the limited published information available, suggests that something
in excess of 60,000 small cetaceans might be taken as bycatch each year. There is
an urgent need for monitoring and management of these fisheries including the
development of mitigation methods to reduce cetacean bycatch. Large-scale gillnetting
on the high seas (using nets in excess of 2.5km length) is banned by both
UN convention and IOTC resolution, but is being carried out by Iran, Pakistan and
possibly also other countries; compliance is required. More generally, the large and
still expanding gillnet capacity within the region needs to be assessed, and if appropriate
either capped or reduced.
Purse seining in the western and central Indian Ocean is dominated by French and
Spanish fleets. An increasing proportion of sets is made on drifting fish aggregating
devices (FADs) but there has been, and continues to be, a considerable number of
sets made on free schools (i.e. non-FAD-associated tuna schools). Most cetaceans do
not regularly associate with FADs and the major potential cetacean interactions are
with free school sets. During 1981-1999, 9.6% of all sets were reported to have been
made in association with baleen whales, probably Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera
brydei). When encircled, most whales are reported to escape by breaking through
the net. Mortality is unknown, but may have been of the order of 10s annually. The
association of free schools of large yellowfin tuna with dolphins (mostly spotted
dolphins Stenella attenuata and spinner dolphins Stenella longrostris) is more contentious.
This association (which is common in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and is
exploited by the purse seine fishery there) has always been reported to be rare in the
western Indian Ocean. However, the tuna-dolphin association is common in many
coastal areas of the region and widespread in the high seas of the western Indian
Ocean north of 10°S. Setting on dolphin schools has been also reported to be rare,
but its true scale is questioned. Setting on cetaceans has recently been banned by
EU regulation (2007) and IOTC resolution (2013), so cetacean bycatch and mortality
should be much reduced in the future. 100% coverage by international observers
would be ideal.
Longline fisheries were dominated for several decades by East Asian nations, but
now increasing catches are made by coastal countries, notably India, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. A major issue for longliners is depredation – removal of bait and damage
of hooked fish by sharks and cetaceans. Several species of cetacean have been
implicated, but the main one appears to be the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens).
There is also some entanglement of cetaceans in longlines (likely following
attempts at depredation). Development of mitigation measures is on-going and
needs to be continued. It is possible that some longline fishermen are deliberately
killing cetaceans.
Several coastal countries have handline fisheries for large yellowfin tuna, which fishermen
locate by their association with dolphins (mainly spotted and spinner dolphins).
There is anecdotal evidence that some dolphins are hooked. Although they
invariably break free or are released, the scale of any post-release mortality or of
sub-lethal impacts is unknown. From the Maldivian pole-and-line fishery, there are
reports of dolphins (probably Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus)
taking fish attracted by the lights used during night bait fishing. The scale and potential
impacts of these interactions require assessment.
There has been a widespread failure to monitor and manage cetacean bycatch in
Indian Ocean tuna fisheries, and to develop and implement mitigation measures.
The enormous, and still growing, gillnet capacity in the region should be of particular
concern. There is a need for increased observer coverage of all fisheries, supplemented
by electronic monitoring. Fishery-independent surveys of cetacean distribution
and abundance in the western Indian Ocean are also required to inform
management.
Roman, Joe,Estes, James A,Morissette, Lyne,Smith, Craig,Costa, Daniel,McCarthy, James,Nation, JB,Nicol, Stephen,Pershing, Andrew,Smetacek, Victor
Whales as marine ecosystem engineers Journal Article
In: Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, vol. 12, no. 448, pp. 377-385, 2014, ISBN: 1540-9309.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: cetaceans, ecosystem, oceanography, prey consumption, whales
@article{,
title = {Whales as marine ecosystem engineers},
author = {Roman, Joe,Estes, James A,Morissette, Lyne,Smith, Craig,Costa, Daniel,McCarthy, James,Nation, JB,Nicol, Stephen,Pershing, Andrew,Smetacek, Victor},
issn = {1540-9309},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment},
volume = {12},
number = {448},
pages = {377-385},
abstract = {Baleen and sperm whales, known collectively as the great whales, include the largest animals in the history of life
on Earth. With high metabolic demands and large populations, whales probably had a strong influence on
marine ecosystems before the advent of industrial whaling: as consumers of fish and invertebrates; as prey to
other large-bodied predators; as reservoirs of and vertical and horizontal vectors for nutrients; and as detrital
sources of energy and habitat in the deep sea. The decline in great whale numbers, estimated to be at least 66%
and perhaps as high as 90%, has likely altered the structure and function of the oceans, but recovery is possible
and in many cases is already underway. Future changes in the structure and function of the world’s oceans can be
expected with the restoration of great whale populations.},
keywords = {cetaceans, ecosystem, oceanography, prey consumption, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Baleen and sperm whales, known collectively as the great whales, include the largest animals in the history of life
on Earth. With high metabolic demands and large populations, whales probably had a strong influence on
marine ecosystems before the advent of industrial whaling: as consumers of fish and invertebrates; as prey to
other large-bodied predators; as reservoirs of and vertical and horizontal vectors for nutrients; and as detrital
sources of energy and habitat in the deep sea. The decline in great whale numbers, estimated to be at least 66%
and perhaps as high as 90%, has likely altered the structure and function of the oceans, but recovery is possible
and in many cases is already underway. Future changes in the structure and function of the world’s oceans can be
expected with the restoration of great whale populations.
on Earth. With high metabolic demands and large populations, whales probably had a strong influence on
marine ecosystems before the advent of industrial whaling: as consumers of fish and invertebrates; as prey to
other large-bodied predators; as reservoirs of and vertical and horizontal vectors for nutrients; and as detrital
sources of energy and habitat in the deep sea. The decline in great whale numbers, estimated to be at least 66%
and perhaps as high as 90%, has likely altered the structure and function of the oceans, but recovery is possible
and in many cases is already underway. Future changes in the structure and function of the world’s oceans can be
expected with the restoration of great whale populations.
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Van Bressem, Marie-Françoise,Minton, Gianna,Collins, Tim,Willson, Andrew,Baldwin, Robert,Van Waerebeek, Koen
Tattoo-like skin disease in the endangered subpopulation of the Humpback Whale, Journal Article
In: Zoology in the Middle East, no. 489, pp. 1-8, 2014, ISBN: 0939-7140.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, health, Humpback Whale, lesions, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo-ID, skin, tattoo, Threats
@article{,
title = {Tattoo-like skin disease in the endangered subpopulation of the Humpback Whale, },
author = {Van Bressem, Marie-Françoise,Minton, Gianna,Collins, Tim,Willson, Andrew,Baldwin, Robert,Van Waerebeek, Koen},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09397140.2014.994316},
issn = {0939-7140},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Zoology in the Middle East},
number = {489},
pages = {1-8},
publisher = {Taylor & Francis},
abstract = {The presence of tattoo-like skin disease is reported in an endangered, non-migratory subpopulation of Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) from Oman. We examined 522 images taken during small-boat surveys in the Gulf of Masirah and in Dhofar in 2000-2006 and in 2010-2011. Tattoo-like lesions were detected in regular, good and outstanding images. They appeared as irregular or rounded, light grey marks often showing a whitish outline, and were located on the flanks, dorsum, dorsal fin and caudal peduncle. They could be relatively small to very large and cover up to an estimated 40% of the visible body surface. Over the whole study period disease prevalence reached 21.7% in 60 whales and 16.7% in 36 adults. In this category, prevalence was higher in males (26.7%, N=15) than in females (9.1%, N=11), but the difference was not significant. Lesions appeared larger in males than in the positive female and progressed in two males. Disease prevalence increased significantly from 2000 through 2011 (r2 =0.998). Advanced tattoo skin disease, with lesions extending over more than 10% of the visible body surface seemed to occur more frequently in 2010-2011 than in 2000-2006, but samples were small. This is the first confirmed report of tattoo-like disease in the Balaenopteridae family and the first time it is documented in the Arabian Sea. The disease high prevalence, its increase over time and its progression in some individuals are of concern.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, health, Humpback Whale, lesions, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo-ID, skin, tattoo, Threats},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The presence of tattoo-like skin disease is reported in an endangered, non-migratory subpopulation of Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) from Oman. We examined 522 images taken during small-boat surveys in the Gulf of Masirah and in Dhofar in 2000-2006 and in 2010-2011. Tattoo-like lesions were detected in regular, good and outstanding images. They appeared as irregular or rounded, light grey marks often showing a whitish outline, and were located on the flanks, dorsum, dorsal fin and caudal peduncle. They could be relatively small to very large and cover up to an estimated 40% of the visible body surface. Over the whole study period disease prevalence reached 21.7% in 60 whales and 16.7% in 36 adults. In this category, prevalence was higher in males (26.7%, N=15) than in females (9.1%, N=11), but the difference was not significant. Lesions appeared larger in males than in the positive female and progressed in two males. Disease prevalence increased significantly from 2000 through 2011 (r2 =0.998). Advanced tattoo skin disease, with lesions extending over more than 10% of the visible body surface seemed to occur more frequently in 2010-2011 than in 2000-2006, but samples were small. This is the first confirmed report of tattoo-like disease in the Balaenopteridae family and the first time it is documented in the Arabian Sea. The disease high prevalence, its increase over time and its progression in some individuals are of concern.
de Vos, A.,Pattiaratchi, C. B.,Wijeratne, E. M. S.
Surface circulation and upwelling patterns around Sri Lanka Journal Article
In: Biogeosciences, vol. 11, no. 85, pp. 5909-5930, 2014, ISBN: 1726-4189.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: currents, Indian Ocean, oceanography, productivity, remote sensing, Sri Lanka
@article{,
title = {Surface circulation and upwelling patterns around Sri Lanka},
author = {de Vos, A.,Pattiaratchi, C. B.,Wijeratne, E. M. S.},
url = {https://www.biogeosciences.net/11/5909/2014/},
issn = {1726-4189},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Biogeosciences},
volume = {11},
number = {85},
pages = {5909-5930},
publisher = {Copernicus Publications},
abstract = {Sri Lanka occupies a unique location within the equatorial belt in the northern Indian Ocean, with the Arabian Sea on its western side and the Bay of Bengal on its eastern side, and experiences bi-annually reversing monsoon winds. Aggregations of blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) have been observed along the southern coast of Sri Lanka during the northeast (NE) monsoon, when satellite imagery indicates lower productivity in the surface waters. This study explored elements of the dynamics of the surface circulation and coastal upwelling in the waters around Sri Lanka using satellite imagery and numerical simulations using the Regional Ocean Modelling System (ROMS). The model was run for 3 years to examine the seasonal and shorter-term (~10 days) variability. The results reproduced correctly the reversing current system, between the Equator and Sri Lanka, in response to the changing wind field: the eastward flowing Southwest Monsoon Current (SMC) during the southwest (SW) monsoon transporting 11.5 Sv (mean over 2010–2012) and the westward flowing Northeast Monsoon Current (NMC) transporting 9.6 Sv during the NE monsoon, respectively. A recirculation feature located to the east of Sri Lanka during the SW monsoon, the Sri Lanka Dome, is shown to result from the interaction between the SMC and the island of Sri Lanka. Along the eastern and western coasts, during both monsoon periods, flow is southward converging along the southern coast. During the SW monsoon, the island deflects the eastward flowing SMC southward, whilst along the eastern coast, the southward flow results from the Sri Lanka Dome recirculation. The major upwelling region, during both monsoon periods, is located along the southern coast, resulting from southward flow converging along the southern coast and subsequent divergence associated with the offshore transport of water. Higher surface chlorophyll concentrations were observed during the SW monsoon. The location of the flow convergence and hence the upwelling centre was dependent on the relative strengths of wind-driven flow along the eastern and western coasts: during the SW (NE) monsoon, the flow along the western (eastern) coast was stronger, migrating the upwelling centre to the east (west).},
keywords = {currents, Indian Ocean, oceanography, productivity, remote sensing, Sri Lanka},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Sri Lanka occupies a unique location within the equatorial belt in the northern Indian Ocean, with the Arabian Sea on its western side and the Bay of Bengal on its eastern side, and experiences bi-annually reversing monsoon winds. Aggregations of blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) have been observed along the southern coast of Sri Lanka during the northeast (NE) monsoon, when satellite imagery indicates lower productivity in the surface waters. This study explored elements of the dynamics of the surface circulation and coastal upwelling in the waters around Sri Lanka using satellite imagery and numerical simulations using the Regional Ocean Modelling System (ROMS). The model was run for 3 years to examine the seasonal and shorter-term (~10 days) variability. The results reproduced correctly the reversing current system, between the Equator and Sri Lanka, in response to the changing wind field: the eastward flowing Southwest Monsoon Current (SMC) during the southwest (SW) monsoon transporting 11.5 Sv (mean over 2010–2012) and the westward flowing Northeast Monsoon Current (NMC) transporting 9.6 Sv during the NE monsoon, respectively. A recirculation feature located to the east of Sri Lanka during the SW monsoon, the Sri Lanka Dome, is shown to result from the interaction between the SMC and the island of Sri Lanka. Along the eastern and western coasts, during both monsoon periods, flow is southward converging along the southern coast. During the SW monsoon, the island deflects the eastward flowing SMC southward, whilst along the eastern coast, the southward flow results from the Sri Lanka Dome recirculation. The major upwelling region, during both monsoon periods, is located along the southern coast, resulting from southward flow converging along the southern coast and subsequent divergence associated with the offshore transport of water. Higher surface chlorophyll concentrations were observed during the SW monsoon. The location of the flow convergence and hence the upwelling centre was dependent on the relative strengths of wind-driven flow along the eastern and western coasts: during the SW (NE) monsoon, the flow along the western (eastern) coast was stronger, migrating the upwelling centre to the east (west).
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Nanayakkara, Ranil,de Mel, Ruvinda,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Cabral de Mel, Surendranie
Surface and dive times of the Blue Whale ( Journal Article
In: NeBIO I An international journal of environment and biodiversity, vol. Vol. 5, No. 4, no. 177, pp. 1-3, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, dive duration, dive time, feeding, Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, Surfacing behaviour
@article{,
title = {Surface and dive times of the Blue Whale (},
author = {Nanayakkara, Ranil,de Mel, Ruvinda,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Cabral de Mel, Surendranie},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {NeBIO I An international journal of environment and biodiversity},
volume = {Vol. 5, No. 4},
number = {177},
pages = {1-3},
abstract = {Dive times of a single Blue Whale observed in Trincomalee Bay, Sri Lanka, in relation to the abiotic parameters of the bay’s waters and its ability to support large densities of krill from May 2011 to July 2011. Thirty five total dives were observed and its mean dive time was 9.6 ± 0.31 min. The observed whale’s feeding dives lasted longer than what has been previously recorded for blue whales in the Pacific Ocean. The mean salinity, Mean Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and mean temperature of Trincomalee Bay was respectively 28.1± 4.8 ppt, 9.92 ± 0.3 mg/L and 28.81 ± 0.96 0 C. All studied abiotic parameters of Trincomalee Bay show that it is able to support large concentrations of krill. Trincomalee Bay thus seems to serve as a highly productive hunting ground for Blue Whales in the northern Indian Ocean.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, dive duration, dive time, feeding, Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, Surfacing behaviour},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Dive times of a single Blue Whale observed in Trincomalee Bay, Sri Lanka, in relation to the abiotic parameters of the bay’s waters and its ability to support large densities of krill from May 2011 to July 2011. Thirty five total dives were observed and its mean dive time was 9.6 ± 0.31 min. The observed whale’s feeding dives lasted longer than what has been previously recorded for blue whales in the Pacific Ocean. The mean salinity, Mean Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and mean temperature of Trincomalee Bay was respectively 28.1± 4.8 ppt, 9.92 ± 0.3 mg/L and 28.81 ± 0.96 0 C. All studied abiotic parameters of Trincomalee Bay show that it is able to support large concentrations of krill. Trincomalee Bay thus seems to serve as a highly productive hunting ground for Blue Whales in the northern Indian Ocean.
Nanayakkara, Ranil,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas
Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin ( Journal Article
In: Aquatic Mammals, vol. 40, no. 178, pp. 398-406, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Distribution, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, Individual identification, photo identification, population, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka
@article{,
title = {Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin (},
author = {Nanayakkara, Ranil,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Aquatic Mammals},
volume = {40},
number = {178},
pages = {398-406},
abstract = {Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Distribution, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, Individual identification, photo identification, population, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.
Piontkovski, S. A.,Al Jufaili, S.
Coastal upwellings and Mesoscale Eddies of the Western Arabian Sea: Some Biological Implications Journal Article
In: International Journal of Oceans and Oceanography, vol. 7, no. 430, pp. 93-115, 2013.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Fisheries, Mesopelagic boundary community, oceanography, Oman, prey
@article{,
title = {Coastal upwellings and Mesoscale Eddies of the Western Arabian Sea: Some Biological Implications},
author = {Piontkovski, S. A.,Al Jufaili, S.},
year = {2013},
date = {2013-01-01},
journal = {International Journal of Oceans and Oceanography},
volume = {7},
number = {430},
pages = {93-115},
abstract = {Satellite derived (SeaWIFS, MODIS, TOPEX/Poseidon, and Jason)
chlorophyll-a concentration, sea surface heights, sea surface temperature, data
on vertical profiles of temperature and salinity from the ARGO drifting floats,
wind speed, the Dipole Mode Index, and historical data on sardine landings
were employed, to analyze physical-biological coupling in the western
Arabian Sea which is known for its vigorous eddy field affecting
characteristics of biological productivity. Summer and winter monsoons
impose different modes of mesoscale variability. In summer, the East Arabian
Current along with the currents of the Arabian Sea interior generates a dense
field of eddies, where as in winter, eddies become less developed and less
numerous. Therefore, the chlorophyll distribution is more heterogeneous
spatially and more variable temporally during summer monsoon. Interannual
changes of eddy field bear footprints of the impact of basin-scale atmospheric
anomaly (the Indian Ocean Dipole). Spatial-temporal characteristics of the
eddy field are valuable tools in understanding seasonal and interannual
fluctuations of sardine landings contributing ~ 50% to the fishery in the
region},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Fisheries, Mesopelagic boundary community, oceanography, Oman, prey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Satellite derived (SeaWIFS, MODIS, TOPEX/Poseidon, and Jason)
chlorophyll-a concentration, sea surface heights, sea surface temperature, data
on vertical profiles of temperature and salinity from the ARGO drifting floats,
wind speed, the Dipole Mode Index, and historical data on sardine landings
were employed, to analyze physical-biological coupling in the western
Arabian Sea which is known for its vigorous eddy field affecting
characteristics of biological productivity. Summer and winter monsoons
impose different modes of mesoscale variability. In summer, the East Arabian
Current along with the currents of the Arabian Sea interior generates a dense
field of eddies, where as in winter, eddies become less developed and less
numerous. Therefore, the chlorophyll distribution is more heterogeneous
spatially and more variable temporally during summer monsoon. Interannual
changes of eddy field bear footprints of the impact of basin-scale atmospheric
anomaly (the Indian Ocean Dipole). Spatial-temporal characteristics of the
eddy field are valuable tools in understanding seasonal and interannual
fluctuations of sardine landings contributing ~ 50% to the fishery in the
region
chlorophyll-a concentration, sea surface heights, sea surface temperature, data
on vertical profiles of temperature and salinity from the ARGO drifting floats,
wind speed, the Dipole Mode Index, and historical data on sardine landings
were employed, to analyze physical-biological coupling in the western
Arabian Sea which is known for its vigorous eddy field affecting
characteristics of biological productivity. Summer and winter monsoons
impose different modes of mesoscale variability. In summer, the East Arabian
Current along with the currents of the Arabian Sea interior generates a dense
field of eddies, where as in winter, eddies become less developed and less
numerous. Therefore, the chlorophyll distribution is more heterogeneous
spatially and more variable temporally during summer monsoon. Interannual
changes of eddy field bear footprints of the impact of basin-scale atmospheric
anomaly (the Indian Ocean Dipole). Spatial-temporal characteristics of the
eddy field are valuable tools in understanding seasonal and interannual
fluctuations of sardine landings contributing ~ 50% to the fishery in the
region
Oman Department of Fisheries Statistics
Fisheries Statistics 2012: Facts and Figures Technical Report
no. 480, 2013.
BibTeX | Tags:
@techreport{,
title = {Fisheries Statistics 2012: Facts and Figures},
author = {Oman Department of Fisheries Statistics},
year = {2013},
date = {2013-01-01},
number = {480},
publisher = {Department of Fisheries Statistics},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
de Vos, Asha,Christiansen, Fredrik,Harcourt, Robert G.,Pattiaratchi, Charitha B.
Surfacing characteristics and diving behaviour of blue whales in Sri Lankan waters Journal Article
In: Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology, vol. 449, no. 83, pp. 149-153, 2013, ISBN: 0022-0981.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, availability bias, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Markov chains, Monte Carlo, Northern Indian Ocean, ship strike, Surfacing behaviour, Whale watching
@article{,
title = {Surfacing characteristics and diving behaviour of blue whales in Sri Lankan waters},
author = {de Vos, Asha,Christiansen, Fredrik,Harcourt, Robert G.,Pattiaratchi, Charitha B.},
url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022098113003298},
issn = {0022-0981},
year = {2013},
date = {2013-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology},
volume = {449},
number = {83},
pages = {149-153},
abstract = {Surfacing behaviour and dive characteristics were quantified from focal follows of individual blue whales between January–March 2012 and 2013. During this period individual whales were followed from small boats to observe their surfacing patterns and breathing behaviour. Data on time at first surface, length of surface interval, number of blows, final dive time and whether or not the whale ‘fluked up’ before a deep dive were recorded. A step-wise modelling approach was used to estimate a number of surfacing characteristics: mean Inter-Breath Interval (IBI), bout duration and the number of surfacings in a bout. First, dives were classified as either surface dives or deep dives based on the occurrence of arching or fluking behaviour at the surface prior to a deep dive. The mean IBI of surface dives was 17.6s (SD=26.14) and for deep dives, 640.3s (SD=214.38). To account for temporal dependence between dive types, a first-order Markov chain was used to estimate the transition probability between dive types. Time series of dive types were then simulated, using Monte Carlo methods, while accounting for heterogeneity in IBI of the different dive types. The mean IBI of blue whales in Sri Lanka, obtained from the Monte Carlo methods, was 84.7s (SD=11.17). The mean bout duration was 145s (SD=28.31), with the mean number of breaths per surface bout being 9.3 (SD=1.43). Whales also lifted their tail flukes out of the water on 55% of terminal dives, which is considerably more frequent than elsewhere in the world. These results significantly advance our understanding of blue whales in Sri Lankan waters. More specifically, this information is essential for the calculation of precise abundance estimates as it informs the detection probability parameters for line transect surveys. In this way it will help formulate better management decisions related to the conservation of this population.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, availability bias, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Markov chains, Monte Carlo, Northern Indian Ocean, ship strike, Surfacing behaviour, Whale watching},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Surfacing behaviour and dive characteristics were quantified from focal follows of individual blue whales between January–March 2012 and 2013. During this period individual whales were followed from small boats to observe their surfacing patterns and breathing behaviour. Data on time at first surface, length of surface interval, number of blows, final dive time and whether or not the whale ‘fluked up’ before a deep dive were recorded. A step-wise modelling approach was used to estimate a number of surfacing characteristics: mean Inter-Breath Interval (IBI), bout duration and the number of surfacings in a bout. First, dives were classified as either surface dives or deep dives based on the occurrence of arching or fluking behaviour at the surface prior to a deep dive. The mean IBI of surface dives was 17.6s (SD=26.14) and for deep dives, 640.3s (SD=214.38). To account for temporal dependence between dive types, a first-order Markov chain was used to estimate the transition probability between dive types. Time series of dive types were then simulated, using Monte Carlo methods, while accounting for heterogeneity in IBI of the different dive types. The mean IBI of blue whales in Sri Lanka, obtained from the Monte Carlo methods, was 84.7s (SD=11.17). The mean bout duration was 145s (SD=28.31), with the mean number of breaths per surface bout being 9.3 (SD=1.43). Whales also lifted their tail flukes out of the water on 55% of terminal dives, which is considerably more frequent than elsewhere in the world. These results significantly advance our understanding of blue whales in Sri Lankan waters. More specifically, this information is essential for the calculation of precise abundance estimates as it informs the detection probability parameters for line transect surveys. In this way it will help formulate better management decisions related to the conservation of this population.
Hall, Martin ,Román-Verdesoto, Marlon
Bycatch and Non-Tuna Catch in the Tropical Tuna Purse Seine Fisheries of the World Technical Report
no. 382, 2013.
Links | BibTeX | Tags: Bycatch, FAO, non-tuna fisheries, tuna fisheries
@techreport{,
title = {Bycatch and Non-Tuna Catch in the Tropical Tuna Purse Seine Fisheries of the World},
author = {Hall, Martin ,Román-Verdesoto, Marlon},
url = {http://www.fao.org/3/i2743e/i2743e.pdf},
year = {2013},
date = {2013-01-01},
journal = {FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper},
number = {382},
pages = {262},
publisher = {FAO},
keywords = {Bycatch, FAO, non-tuna fisheries, tuna fisheries},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Ilangakoon, A. D.
Impacts of Whale-Watching on Blue Whales (Balaenoptera musculus) off Southern Sri Lanka Conference
no. 115, 2013.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, impact, management, Northern Indian Ocean, risk assessment, ship strike, shipping, Sri Lanka, tourism, Whale watching
@conference{,
title = {Impacts of Whale-Watching on Blue Whales (Balaenoptera musculus) off Southern Sri Lanka},
author = {Ilangakoon, A. D. },
url = {https://repository.kulib.kyoto-u.ac.jp/dspace/bitstream/2433/176191/1/12thseastar_045.pdf},
year = {2013},
date = {2013-01-01},
journal = {PROCEEDINGS of the Design Symposium on Conservation of Ecosystem (2013) (The 12th SEASTAR2000 workshop)},
number = {115},
pages = {45-50},
abstract = {Blue whales inhabit the coastal waters off southern Sri Lanka throughout the year, due to a narrow
continental shelf and upwelling, related feeding opportunities. A busy, international shipping lane also
lies off the south coast. While blue whales are listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the
subspecies status and genetic affinities of this northern Indian Ocean population is not well
understood. Since 2009 a rapidly expanding, boat-based, commercial whale-watching industry has
developed off the south coast, but remains unregulated due to the non-existence of national
regulations or codes of conduct. As a result, unethical practices are leading to harassment of the
targeted whales. Comparison of sightings data from before and after whale-watching began, shows a
shift in the area of occurrence and concentration of whales. Simultaneously there is an increase in the
number of stranding and vessel collision related mortality. These factors indicate that current whalewatching
practices are displacing whales from their preferred feeding areas and inadvertently pushing
them offshore into the shipping lane, causing an increase in fatal vessel collisions. It is recommended
that a precautionary principal is followed and whale-watching activities are regulated as a priority, in
order to mitigate any adverse impacts. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, impact, management, Northern Indian Ocean, risk assessment, ship strike, shipping, Sri Lanka, tourism, Whale watching},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Blue whales inhabit the coastal waters off southern Sri Lanka throughout the year, due to a narrow
continental shelf and upwelling, related feeding opportunities. A busy, international shipping lane also
lies off the south coast. While blue whales are listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the
subspecies status and genetic affinities of this northern Indian Ocean population is not well
understood. Since 2009 a rapidly expanding, boat-based, commercial whale-watching industry has
developed off the south coast, but remains unregulated due to the non-existence of national
regulations or codes of conduct. As a result, unethical practices are leading to harassment of the
targeted whales. Comparison of sightings data from before and after whale-watching began, shows a
shift in the area of occurrence and concentration of whales. Simultaneously there is an increase in the
number of stranding and vessel collision related mortality. These factors indicate that current whalewatching
practices are displacing whales from their preferred feeding areas and inadvertently pushing
them offshore into the shipping lane, causing an increase in fatal vessel collisions. It is recommended
that a precautionary principal is followed and whale-watching activities are regulated as a priority, in
order to mitigate any adverse impacts.
continental shelf and upwelling, related feeding opportunities. A busy, international shipping lane also
lies off the south coast. While blue whales are listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the
subspecies status and genetic affinities of this northern Indian Ocean population is not well
understood. Since 2009 a rapidly expanding, boat-based, commercial whale-watching industry has
developed off the south coast, but remains unregulated due to the non-existence of national
regulations or codes of conduct. As a result, unethical practices are leading to harassment of the
targeted whales. Comparison of sightings data from before and after whale-watching began, shows a
shift in the area of occurrence and concentration of whales. Simultaneously there is an increase in the
number of stranding and vessel collision related mortality. These factors indicate that current whalewatching
practices are displacing whales from their preferred feeding areas and inadvertently pushing
them offshore into the shipping lane, causing an increase in fatal vessel collisions. It is recommended
that a precautionary principal is followed and whale-watching activities are regulated as a priority, in
order to mitigate any adverse impacts.
Kershaw, Francine,Leslie, Matthew S,Collins, Tim,Mansur, Rubaiyat M,Smith, Brian D,Minton, Gianna,Baldwin, Robert,LeDuc, Richard G,Anderson, R Charles,Brownell, Robert L
Population differentiation of 2 forms of Bryde’s Whales in the Indian and Pacific Oceans Journal Article
In: Journal of Heredity, vol. 104, no. 394, pp. 755-764, 2013, ISBN: 0022-1503.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: balaenoptera, balaenoptera edeni, bangladesh, Bryde's whale, Maldives, Oman, Speciation, taxonomy
@article{,
title = {Population differentiation of 2 forms of Bryde’s Whales in the Indian and Pacific Oceans},
author = {Kershaw, Francine,Leslie, Matthew S,Collins, Tim,Mansur, Rubaiyat M,Smith, Brian D,Minton, Gianna,Baldwin, Robert,LeDuc, Richard G,Anderson, R Charles,Brownell, Robert L},
issn = {0022-1503},
year = {2013},
date = {2013-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Heredity},
volume = {104},
number = {394},
pages = {755-764},
abstract = {Accurate identification of units for conservation is particularly challenging for marine species as obvious barriers to gene flow are
generally lacking. Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera spp.) are subject to multiple human-mediated stressors, including fisheries bycatch,
ship strikes, and scientific whaling by Japan. For effective management, a clear understanding of how populations of each Bryde’s
whale species/subspecies are genetically structured across their range is required. We conducted a population-level analysis of
mtDNA control region sequences with 56 new samples from Oman, Maldives, and Bangladesh, plus published sequences from
off Java and the Northwest Pacific. Nine diagnostic characters in the mitochondrial control region and a maximum parsimony
phylogenetic analysis identified 2 genetically recognized subspecies of Bryde’s whale: the larger, offshore form, Balaenoptera edeni
brydei, and the smaller, coastal form, Balaenoptera edeni edeni. Genetic diversity and differentiation indices, combined with a reconstructed
maximum parsimony haplotype network, indicate strong differences in the genetic diversity and population structure
within each subspecies. Discrete population units are identified for B. e. brydei in the Maldives, Java, and the Northwest Pacific and
for B. e. edeni between the Northern Indian Ocean (Oman and Bangladesh) and the coastal waters of Japan.},
keywords = {balaenoptera, balaenoptera edeni, bangladesh, Bryde's whale, Maldives, Oman, Speciation, taxonomy},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Accurate identification of units for conservation is particularly challenging for marine species as obvious barriers to gene flow are
generally lacking. Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera spp.) are subject to multiple human-mediated stressors, including fisheries bycatch,
ship strikes, and scientific whaling by Japan. For effective management, a clear understanding of how populations of each Bryde’s
whale species/subspecies are genetically structured across their range is required. We conducted a population-level analysis of
mtDNA control region sequences with 56 new samples from Oman, Maldives, and Bangladesh, plus published sequences from
off Java and the Northwest Pacific. Nine diagnostic characters in the mitochondrial control region and a maximum parsimony
phylogenetic analysis identified 2 genetically recognized subspecies of Bryde’s whale: the larger, offshore form, Balaenoptera edeni
brydei, and the smaller, coastal form, Balaenoptera edeni edeni. Genetic diversity and differentiation indices, combined with a reconstructed
maximum parsimony haplotype network, indicate strong differences in the genetic diversity and population structure
within each subspecies. Discrete population units are identified for B. e. brydei in the Maldives, Java, and the Northwest Pacific and
for B. e. edeni between the Northern Indian Ocean (Oman and Bangladesh) and the coastal waters of Japan.
generally lacking. Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera spp.) are subject to multiple human-mediated stressors, including fisheries bycatch,
ship strikes, and scientific whaling by Japan. For effective management, a clear understanding of how populations of each Bryde’s
whale species/subspecies are genetically structured across their range is required. We conducted a population-level analysis of
mtDNA control region sequences with 56 new samples from Oman, Maldives, and Bangladesh, plus published sequences from
off Java and the Northwest Pacific. Nine diagnostic characters in the mitochondrial control region and a maximum parsimony
phylogenetic analysis identified 2 genetically recognized subspecies of Bryde’s whale: the larger, offshore form, Balaenoptera edeni
brydei, and the smaller, coastal form, Balaenoptera edeni edeni. Genetic diversity and differentiation indices, combined with a reconstructed
maximum parsimony haplotype network, indicate strong differences in the genetic diversity and population structure
within each subspecies. Discrete population units are identified for B. e. brydei in the Maldives, Java, and the Northwest Pacific and
for B. e. edeni between the Northern Indian Ocean (Oman and Bangladesh) and the coastal waters of Japan.
Piontkovski, SA,Al-Gheilani, HMH,Jupp, B,Sarma, YVB,Al-Azri, AR
The relationship between algal blooms, fish kill incidents, and oxygen depletions along the Omani coast Journal Article
In: International Journal of Oceans and Oceanography, vol. 6, no. 429, pp. 145-177, 2012, ISBN: 0973-2667.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, fish kill, Gulf of Oman, Harmful Algal Bloom, mass mortality, oxygen minimum, Sea of Oman, seasonal change, Sultanate of Oman
@article{,
title = {The relationship between algal blooms, fish kill incidents, and oxygen depletions along the Omani coast},
author = {Piontkovski, SA,Al-Gheilani, HMH,Jupp, B,Sarma, YVB,Al-Azri, AR},
issn = {0973-2667},
year = {2012},
date = {2012-01-01},
journal = {International Journal of Oceans and Oceanography},
volume = {6},
number = {429},
pages = {145-177},
abstract = {A persistence of hypoxia is a common feature for the Sea of Oman, and the
western Arabian Sea. By using historical data complemented by ongoing
measurements, the relationship between the frequency of harmful algal
blooms, fish kill incidents, and oxygen depletions, was investigated. In the Sea
of Oman, the seasonal pattern exhibited a tendency of fish kill incidents to
increase, from January to November. In the western Arabian Sea, the pattern
was different- maximal occurrence of fish kill incidences was observed in
December and January. In 1988-2011, the number of harmful algal blooms
accompanied by fish kills was 4 times higher for the Sea of Oman (N= 91)
compared to the Arabian Sea coast (N= 22), whereas the total number of fish
kill incidents was about the same (22 versus 25). This means that the Arabian
Sea coast faced more frequent harmful blooms than the Sea of Oman. The Sea
of Oman coastal time series of the dissolved oxygen concentration implied a
steady decline throughout the year, from January to December. The fish kill
incidents in this region were mainly driven by oxygen depletions, whereas in
the Arabian Sea these incidents were mediated by the harmful algal blooms
along with the oxygen depletions. In analyzing the Omani coast as a whole,
the Ridge Multiple Regression Analysis implied the dissolved oxygen
concentration and monthly occurrence of algal blooms as the two variables
explaining 75% of the seasonal variations in fish kill incidents.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, fish kill, Gulf of Oman, Harmful Algal Bloom, mass mortality, oxygen minimum, Sea of Oman, seasonal change, Sultanate of Oman},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
A persistence of hypoxia is a common feature for the Sea of Oman, and the
western Arabian Sea. By using historical data complemented by ongoing
measurements, the relationship between the frequency of harmful algal
blooms, fish kill incidents, and oxygen depletions, was investigated. In the Sea
of Oman, the seasonal pattern exhibited a tendency of fish kill incidents to
increase, from January to November. In the western Arabian Sea, the pattern
was different- maximal occurrence of fish kill incidences was observed in
December and January. In 1988-2011, the number of harmful algal blooms
accompanied by fish kills was 4 times higher for the Sea of Oman (N= 91)
compared to the Arabian Sea coast (N= 22), whereas the total number of fish
kill incidents was about the same (22 versus 25). This means that the Arabian
Sea coast faced more frequent harmful blooms than the Sea of Oman. The Sea
of Oman coastal time series of the dissolved oxygen concentration implied a
steady decline throughout the year, from January to December. The fish kill
incidents in this region were mainly driven by oxygen depletions, whereas in
the Arabian Sea these incidents were mediated by the harmful algal blooms
along with the oxygen depletions. In analyzing the Omani coast as a whole,
the Ridge Multiple Regression Analysis implied the dissolved oxygen
concentration and monthly occurrence of algal blooms as the two variables
explaining 75% of the seasonal variations in fish kill incidents.
western Arabian Sea. By using historical data complemented by ongoing
measurements, the relationship between the frequency of harmful algal
blooms, fish kill incidents, and oxygen depletions, was investigated. In the Sea
of Oman, the seasonal pattern exhibited a tendency of fish kill incidents to
increase, from January to November. In the western Arabian Sea, the pattern
was different- maximal occurrence of fish kill incidences was observed in
December and January. In 1988-2011, the number of harmful algal blooms
accompanied by fish kills was 4 times higher for the Sea of Oman (N= 91)
compared to the Arabian Sea coast (N= 22), whereas the total number of fish
kill incidents was about the same (22 versus 25). This means that the Arabian
Sea coast faced more frequent harmful blooms than the Sea of Oman. The Sea
of Oman coastal time series of the dissolved oxygen concentration implied a
steady decline throughout the year, from January to December. The fish kill
incidents in this region were mainly driven by oxygen depletions, whereas in
the Arabian Sea these incidents were mediated by the harmful algal blooms
along with the oxygen depletions. In analyzing the Omani coast as a whole,
the Ridge Multiple Regression Analysis implied the dissolved oxygen
concentration and monthly occurrence of algal blooms as the two variables
explaining 75% of the seasonal variations in fish kill incidents.