@techreport{,

title = {Flukebook – Continuing growth and technical advancement for cetacean photo identification and data archiving, including automated fin, fluke, and body matching},

author = {Blount, D.,Minton, G.,Khan, Christin B.,Levenson, Jacob,Dulau, Violaine,Gero, S.,Parham, J.,Holmberg, Jason},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/sc_68b_ph_06_flukebook-developments-incl-aswn-and-indocet-1.pdf},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Paper presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {330},

pages = {13},

publisher = {IWC},

institution = {Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

abstract = {Flukebook (flukebook.org) is a non-profit, open source cetacean data archiving and

photo-identification tool developed under the larger Wildbook platform (wildbook.org) that uses

computer vision and machine learning to facilitate automated identification of individual animals

in the wild. In 2016, the IWC approved funding for the development of a regional data platform

for the Arabian Sea Whale Network (ASWN) to be implemented in collaboration with Wild Me

(wildme.org), the software and machine learning developers of Flukebook. This foundational

collaboration expanded the capabilities of Flukebook and served as the springboard for

subsequent years of growth in data and usage (e.g., by regional consortiums), as well as

significant technical improvements in 2019-2020 in the application of computer vision and

machine learning, specifically for North Atlantic and Southern right whales, humpback whales,

sperm whales, and multiple species of dolphins. Ongoing improvements in our community

support model and technical advances are bringing together industry, governmental, and NGO

collaborators in a global-scale platform for cetacean research.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Artificial intelligence, Flukebook, humpback dolphin, Humpback Whale, Indian Ocean, matching, megaptera novaeangliae, methodology, Oman, photo identification, Sousa chinensis},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {A new blue whale song-type described for the Arabian Sea and Western Indian Ocean },

author = {Cerchio, S.,Willson, A.,Leroy, E.C.,Muirhead, C.,Al Harthi, S.,baldwin, R,Cholewiak, D.,Collins, T.,Minton, Gianna,Rasoloarijao, T.,Rogers, T.,Sarrouf Willson, M.},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/sc_68b_info_28_-new-blue-whale-call-from-oman-2.pdf},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Report Presented to the Scientific Committee meeting of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {513},

publisher = {IWC},

abstract = {Blue whales in the Indian Ocean (IO) are currently thought to represent two or three subspecies (Balaenoptera musculus intermedia, B. m. brevicauda, B. m. indica), and are structured into four populations with diagnostic song-types. Here we describe a previously unreported song-type that implies the existence of a population that has been undetected or conflated with another population. The song-type was recorded off Oman in the northern IO/Arabian Sea, off the western Chagos Archipelago in the equatorial central IO, and off Madagascar in the southwestern IO. As this is the only blue whale song that has been identified in the western Arabian Sea, we label it the “Oman” song-type to distinguish it from other regionally classified song-types. Spatiotemporal variation at the three sites suggested a distribution west of 70°E, with potential affinity for the northern IO/Arabian Sea, and only minor presence in the southwestern IO. Timing of presence off Oman suggests that intensive illegal Soviet whaling that took 1,294 blue whales in the 1960s likely targeted this population, as opposed to the more widely spread “Sri Lanka” acoustic population as previously assumed. Based upon geographic distribution and potential aseasonal reproduction found in the Soviet catch data, we suggest that if there is a northern Indian Ocean subspecies (B. m. c.f. indica), it is likely this population. Moreover, the potentially restricted range, intensive historic whaling, and the fact that the song-type has been previously undetected, suggests a small population that is in critical need of status assessment and conservation action.  },

keywords = {acoustic detection, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, behaviour, Blue whale, breeding grounds, Oman, Passive acoustic detection, song},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Assessing the body condition of the world’s only non-migratory humpback whale population, the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale},

author = {Christiansen, F.,Baldwin, R.,Minton, G.,Collins, T.,Sprogis, K. R.,Rudd, J.,al Harthi, S.,Leslie, M.,Macdonald, D. W.,Willson, A.},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/sc_68b_cmp_23_rev1_assessment-of-ashw-body-condition-in-oman-1.pdf},

issn = {SC_68b_cmp_23_rev1},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Paper presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {271},

pages = {11},

publisher = {IWC},

abstract = {Arabian Sea humpback whales have been a subject of conservation concern in the IWC since 1997.  Research conducted primarily off the coast of Oman has contributed to understanding the population’s distribution, abundance, and conservation status, whilst information on the population’s health and specific threats is more limited. This study examines all available images of Arabian Sea humpback whales obtained between 2000 and 2018 for evidence of disease, predation, epizoites and human-induced scarring or injury to individuals. Tattoo-like skin disease was detected in 43.4% of 83 adult whales, with a roughly equal distribution between males and females. The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in 2012-2018 (51.7%) than in 2000-2011 (24.1%).  The lesions persisted for two to 14 years in 10 whales and progressed in prevalence and percentage of body cover in six of them. Killer whale tooth rakes were detected in 12% (95% CI 4.5-18%) of individuals based on examination of photographs showing the ventral surface of tail flukes (n=77), but no cookie cutter shark wounds were detected on any body parts of any of the whales examined. Roughly two thirds (66.6%: 95% CI 52-80%) of individuals represented by good quality photos of the caudal peduncle region (n=42) bore scarring patterns considered likely to be associated with entanglement in fishing gear, with no significant differences in entanglement scarring rates between males and females. Four individuals bore injuries consistent with vessel strikes and at least two individuals showed severe injuries and deformations likely to have been caused by interactions with vessels and/or fishing gear.  Five documented entanglement events from Oman and Pakistan involved large-mesh nylon gillnets, which are known to be used extensively throughout the Arabian Sea.  In light of this population’s endangered status,  these findings indicate an urgent need to continue monitoring Arabian Sea humpback whales, with an emphasis on methods that allow continued and expanded assessment of health, body condition, and anthropogenic interactions, aimed toward designing effective conservation strategies to mitigate known threats. },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Body condition, drones, fitness, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, photogrammetry, UAV},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {A Path to Creating the First Generation of High Seas Protected Areas},

author = {Karan, L.,Clark, N.},

url = {https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/reports/2020/03/a-path-to-creating-the-first-generation-of-high-seas-protected-areas},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

number = {130},

pages = {42},

publisher = {Pew Charitable Trusts},

abstract = {Beyond the horizon, more than 200 nautical miles from shore, lies an area of the ocean known as the high seas.

These waters, beyond the jurisdiction of any nation, make up roughly two-thirds of the ocean and cover nearly

half of the planet’s surface. Much is still to be learned about these areas, but scientists know they teem with life

and are among the largest reservoirs of ocean biodiversity. The high seas support abundant fisheries; provide

habitat and migratory routes for whales, sharks, sea turtles, and seabirds; and harbor remarkable ecosystems,

such as deep-water corals and other majestic marine life.

The high seas are also an increasingly busy space; rapid advances in technology and increasing demand for

goods and trade in recent decades mean virtually no part of the ocean—including these waters far from shore—

remains untouched by human industrial activity. Currently, a patchwork of different regional and sectoral

organizations manages this last global common space with little coordination among organizations, and that

is leading to the degradation of the marine environment and its resources. These areas belong to everyone, yet

governments currently have no comprehensive legal mechanism in place to protect high seas marine life.

There is an opportunity for this to change. Negotiations are under way at the United Nations to finalize a new

high seas treaty focused on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity beyond national

jurisdiction. The treaty could allow nations to establish comprehensive, cross-sector marine protected areas

(MPAs) on the high seas. These areas, when well-managed, can be effective tools in building ocean resilience

to climate change, avoiding fisheries collapse, and preserving biodiversity. Currently, less than 1 per cent of

high seas waters are highly protected, but scientific evidence suggests that protecting at least 30 per cent of

the ocean is more likely to achieve long-term ocean health objectives.1 High seas MPAs can play a key role in

reaching this target.

Although there is much still to discover, scientists have sufficient data and research to begin mapping and

modeling hot spots of biodiversity on the high seas.2 This report identifies some of the special places that could

benefit from protections established under a new high seas treaty. The findings build off a project funded by The

Pew Charitable Trusts and led by scientists at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) in conjunction

with partners from 13 universities and organizations. Using an algorithm that allows for consideration of

multiple factors, researchers developed a data-driven analysis to identify areas in the high seas of outstanding

conservation value.

The 10 sites highlighted represent areas with a spectrum and combination of important features, such as

species richness, productivity, and habitat diversity. They are located in oceans that span the globe.

This report also includes recommendations to inform the negotiations under way to finalize a new legally

binding international agreement. The agreement should ensure the establishment of effective high seas

protections, including by setting meaningful conservation objectives and requiring enforceable management

plans for these critical waters beyond the jurisdiction of any single nation. },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, biodiversity, Gulf of Guinea, high seas, Madagascar, Marine Protected Area, Mascarene Islands, migration},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Visual Health Assessment and evaluation of Anthropogenic threats to Arabian Sea Humpback Whales in Oman},

author = {Minton, Gianna,van Bressem, M. F.,Willson, A.,Collins, T.,Al Harthi, S.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Baldwin, R.,Leslie, M.,Robbins, J.,Van Waerebeek, K},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/sc_68b_cmp_16_rev1_visual-health-assessment-of-ashw-in-oman-1.pdf},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Paper presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {418},

pages = {25},

publisher = {IWC},

institution = {Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

abstract = {Arabian Sea humpback whales have been a subject of conservation concern in the IWC since 1997.  Research conducted primarily off the coast of Oman has contributed to understanding the population’s distribution, abundance, and conservation status, whilst information on the population’s health and specific threats is more limited. This study examines all available images of Arabian Sea humpback whales obtained between 2000 and 2018 for evidence of disease, predation, epizoites and human-induced scarring or injury to individuals. Tattoo-like skin disease was detected in 43.4% of 83 adult whales, with a roughly equal distribution between males and females. The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in 2012-2018 (51.7%) than in 2000-2011 (24.1%).  The lesions persisted for two to 14 years in 10 whales and progressed in prevalence and percentage of body cover in six of them. Killer whale tooth rakes were detected in 12% (95% CI 4.5-18%) of individuals based on examination of photographs showing the ventral surface of tail flukes (n=77), but no cookie cutter shark wounds were detected on any body parts of any of the whales examined. Roughly two thirds (66.6%: 95% CI 52-80%) of individuals represented by good quality photos of the caudal peduncle region (n=42) bore scarring patterns considered likely to be associated with entanglement in fishing gear, with no significant differences in entanglement scarring rates between males and females. Four individuals bore injuries consistent with vessel strikes and at least two individuals showed severe injuries and deformations likely to have been caused by interactions with vessels and/or fishing gear.  Five documented entanglement events from Oman and Pakistan involved large-mesh nylon gillnets, which are known to be used extensively throughout the Arabian Sea.  In light of this population’s endangered status,  these findings indicate an urgent need to continue monitoring Arabian Sea humpback whales, with an emphasis on methods that allow continued and expanded assessment of health, body condition, and anthropogenic interactions, aimed toward designing effective conservation strategies to mitigate known threats. },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Barnacle, Bycatch, disease, Fisheries, Humpback Whale, killer whale, lesions, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, pathology, photo identification, predation, scarring, skin, tattoo},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Report of the IWC Workshop on Bycatch Mitigation Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea},

author = {IWC},

url = {https://archive.iwc.int/pages/view.php?ref=9612&k=},

issn = {BMI workshop report 05-19},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

number = {124},

pages = {56},

publisher = {International Whaling Commission},

institution = {International Whaling Commission},

abstract = {The International Whaling Commission (IWC) held a technical workshop on Bycatch Mitigation

Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea from 8-9 May 2019 in Nairobi, Kenya. The

workshop was attended by 50 participants working in 17 different countries, with half of the

participants coming from within the Indian Ocean region. Workshop participants included national

government officials working in marine conservation and fisheries management, cetacean and

fisheries researchers, fisheries technologists, socio-economists and representatives from Regional

Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), inter- and non-governmental organisations. The focal

region of the workshop extended from South Africa, north to the Arabian Sea and east to Sri Lanka,

including coastal areas, national waters and high seas. The primary objectives of the workshop were

to (i) develop a broad-scale picture of cetacean bycatch across the North and Western Indian Ocean

region in both artisanal and commercial fisheries; (ii) explore the challenges and opportunities related

to the monitoring and mitigation of cetacean bycatch in the western and northern Indian Ocean

(Arabian Sea); (iii) identify key gaps in knowledge and capacity within the region and tools needed

address these gaps; (iv) introduce the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative (BMI) to Indian Ocean stakeholders

and assess how the initiative can be of use; (v) identify potential locations which could serve as BMI

pilot projects; (vi) start building collaborations to tackle bycatch at national, regional and international

level.

Presentations included the status of bycatch knowledge at the Indian Ocean scale and current tools

available to assess, monitor and tackle cetacean bycatch. A panel discussion and breakout group

sessions allowed for more in-depth discussion of the knowledge, gaps and challenges to addressing

bycatch shared across the region. Priority areas where cetacean bycatch is known to be occurring –

or considered likely to be occurring - were identified across the region (see summary map below).

The workshop recognised that bycatch is one of the most significant threats to cetacean species and

populations in the Indian Ocean region and concluded that there was an urgent need to raise

awareness of cetacean bycatch at local, national, regional and international scales. The best available

information suggests that very high numbers of animals are caught in medium-scale tuna gillnet

fisheries in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea region. Furthermore, despite the general lack of data on

cetacean bycatch regionally, it is likely that high numbers of cetaceans, including vulnerable species

and populations, are caught in the extensive coastal artisanal and small-scale fisheries (net, trap and

line) across the region. The workshop concluded that within the Indian Ocean region there was a need

to focus on gillnets (set and drifting) as the fishing gear most likely to be causing the highest and most

significant bycatch of cetaceans, and for which few effective solutions currently exist.

It was recognised that cetacean bycatch is generally very poorly documented in the region and that

this presents a major barrier to understanding the scale of the issue and making progress towards

bycatch reduction. The workshop concluded that a more systematic assessment of bycatch

information is critical, particularly for small-scale and medium-scale fisheries. 



A number of common barriers to tackling bycatch were identified, including: under-reporting of

bycatch by fishers; lack of standardised monitoring programmes which are suitable and financially

viable for small-medium-scale vessels; lack of capacity to carry out bycatch monitoring and reduction

programmes; lack of reporting through RFMOs; lack of sustainable funding to carry out bycatch

reduction programmes; lack of awareness and political will to tackle the issue; lack of capacity and

clarity at national level on the steps, tools and approaches to tackle bycatch; lack of baseline

information on cetacean distribution and abundance; and lack of technical solutions proven to work

on the fisheries in the region.

Given the prevalence of small to medium-scale fisheries using passive fishing gears (gillnets, traps, etc)

across the Indian Ocean region, and the lack of financially viable and effective mitigation solutions for

these gears, the workshop concluded that further work to develop and trial low-cost and low-tech

solutions was urgently needed. The utility of existing tools and approaches for assessing and 

8

monitoring bycatch in the numerous small to medium-scale fleets was also recognised, including rapid

bycatch risk assessments, remote electronic monitoring and crew-based observer schemes. The

workshop concluded that bycatch reduction efforts should aim to apply multi-disciplinary and multitaxa approaches wherever possible.

The workshop recognised the need for strong collaboration with fishing communities and the

importance of integrating and collecting information on socio-economic aspects of bycatch into

bycatch reduction programmes. Direct engagement with the seafood supply chain, certification

schemes and the culinary community can be a part of rewarding fishers who are working to reduce

bycatch, thereby incentivising participation in bycatch mitigation programs. The workshop concluded

that bycatch reduction programmes should aim, as far as is possible, to support the livelihoods of

fishing communities, and that this should also be considered when exploring options for alternative

livelihoods. It was also recognised that within this region that cetaceans can be the target of directed

catch, or that incidentally caught cetaceans can be used as bait or food, meaning that the term

‘bycatch’ is less well defined.

The workshop participants acknowledged the vital role for Regional Fisheries Management

Organisations (RFMOs) in tackling bycatch and that raising the profile of cetacean bycatch, and the

need to address it, within the context of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), and the Southwest

Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission (SWIOFC) and their contracting parties should be prioritised. It

recognised that underreporting of bycatch at IOTC remains a challenge. The workshop concluded that

there was an opportunity for the BMI to act as a catalyst to ensure more engagement on cetacean

bycatch and to communicate the relevant research priorities at future meetings.

The workshop noted that the regional focus of the meeting had helped collate existing information on

bycatch and that such an approach was potentially useful for other regions. It agreed that until now

there had not been an international body to champion cetacean bycatch mitigation, and that the IWC’s

Bycatch Mitigation Initiative could collaborate with and where appropriate assist other organisations,

RFMOs and national governments interested in tackling bycatch in a number of ways. The suggested

role and activities for the BMI includes the collaborative development of a regional road map for

tackling cetacean bycatch and a framework for more sustainable funding of bycatch work,

strengthened engagement with RFMOs in the region (e.g. IOTC and SWIOFC) and the provision of

training and technical assistance and development of toolboxes. These activities are envisaged as part

of a collaboration between the IWC and other relevant bodies and organisations that are already

working to tackle bycatch (e.g. the FAO, RFMOs, other IGOs and NGOs) and relevant national

governments and experts.

In light of these conclusions the workshop made the following recommendations as the next steps

across the region in order to progress cetacean bycatch reduction efforts. },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bycatch, Entanglement, Indian Ocean, International Whaling Commission, IOTC, mitigation, Pinger},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {The Distribution of Whales in the Northern Arabian Sea along the Coast of Pakistan Obtained through Crew-Based Observer Programme- Results of the 2018 fishing season},

author = {Moazzam, Mohammed,Nawaz, Rab,Khan, B.,Ahmed, S.},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/sc_68a_cmp_07_whale-sightings-from-pakistan-crew-based-observer-programme-1.pdf},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

urldate = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

volume = {SC/68A/CMP/07},

number = {169},

pages = {11},

abstract = {Sightings of whales made by WWF-Pakistan’s Crew Based Observers deputed on tuna gillnet vessels operating along Pakistan’s coast were reported for the 2018 fishing season. A total of 13 sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, 2 sightings of blue whales, 1 sightings of Bryde’s whales, 4 sightings of sperm whales and 15 sightings of baleen whales (that could not be identified to species level due to lack of adequate photographic or video evidence) were made during 2018. The number of whales recorded for the year 2018 is much less than 2017 when a total of 95 sightings of whale were recorded from the area. This decrease in sighting is attributed to early closure of fishing season in late April 2018 because of  extremely low prices of tuna in the market. Usually a voluntary two month close season is observed between June and July, however, the new fishing season was started in September 2018. The close season, therefore, remained effective for about four months (May to August). In addition, a major part of tuna fishing fleet operated in the further offshore waters  (known to have thin population of whales) to avoid checking by  Government agencies for implementation on various  legislation during November- December 2018. },

keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {A Report On Baleen Whale Records And Recent Developments In Marine Mammal Research And Conservation Policy - Update From India},

author = {Sutaria, D.},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sc_67a_cmp_03_rev1_baleen-whale-records-from-india-1.pdf},

issn = { SC/67A/CMP/03_Rev},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {240},

pages = {6},

abstract = {Twelve baleen whale reports were collected from June 2018 to May 2019. Of these seven were of live sightings reported by participatory fisher and diver networks along the coast, including two Bryde’s whale groups, and two separate humpback whale sightings of one individual each. The rest were unidentified baleen whale sightings. These reports are summarised here. Five ‘hotspot areas’ of the west coast, were identified, where information was gathered by interviewing fishers and inviting them to be part of a growing participatory reporting network. . We plan to continue this work in 2019-20 with passive acoustic monitoring using SoundTraps in two of the five hotspots. At the National level the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, New Delhi has developed a National Arabian Sea Humpback whale Research and Recovery program. National and State-level programs are being developed, with support from the author and a wider research network in India. We recommend dedicated baleen whale surveys and collaborative efforts with local teams, to carry out long term research and conservation, including a net disentanglement workshop. },

keywords = {acoustics, Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Bryde's whale, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Persian Gulf, ship strike, song, stranding},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Oman Research Update; documenting cetacean diversity and blue whale feeding habitat in Dhofar, southern Oman},

author = {Willson, A.,Minton, A. Gianna.,Collins, T. ,Al Harthi, S.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Cerchio, S,Braulik, G.,Baldwin, R.},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetworkdotorg.files.wordpress.com/2019/06/sc_68a_cmp_08_oman-research-update.pdf},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

urldate = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Paper presented to the 2019 meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {505},

pages = {14},

publisher = {IWC},

abstract = {Cetacean research has been conducted in Dhofar, southern Oman, since 2000 During this time efforts have been

primarily focused on documenting the distribution, abundance, and ecology of an Endangered population of

Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHWs). The research has revealed the Hallaniyats Bay (including our study

site measuring approximately 10,000km2

) to be a habitat of importance for reproductive and foraging related

behaviours. Simultaneously the field surveys have revealed high cetacean diversity in the area, with over 18

species documented at the site, out of a total of 22 species known for the Arabian peninsula between 2003 and

2016. Short opportunistic surveys conducted March 2018 to April 2019 continue to provide evidence of the

ecological importance of the area for a diverse array of species, including several species of large baleen whales

(including humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and blue whales) as well as a range of large, medium and small

odontocetes. Most recently, in April 2019, blue whales were observed over a three-day period, engaged in

behaviour associated with feeding. As well as documenting this important ecological event the team was able to

collect photographic, tissue and faecal samples that are expected to help resolve issues related to taxonomy and

population structure of blue whales in the northern Indian Ocean. The high levels of cetacean diversity and the

regular occurrence of species of scientific and conservation interest documented within a recent Important

Marine Mammal Area workshop suggest that the area warrants conservation management attention to maintain

its current ‘near-wilderness’ state. },

keywords = {acoustic, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Distribution, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Report of the Scientific Committee: Annex O: Cetacean Stocks that Are or Might be Subject of Conservation Management Plans (CMPs)},

author = {IWC},

url = {https://archive.iwc.int/pages/download.php?ref=13044&ext=pdf&alternative=5232&noattach=true},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

urldate = {2018-01-01},

number = {123},

pages = {20},

publisher = {International Whaling Commission},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, conservation, IWC},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Baleen whale reports from the eastern Arabian Sea based on interview surveys and stranding reports - update from India},

author = {Sutaria, D.},

url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/sc_67b_cmp_15_baleen-whale-records-from-india-1.pdf},

issn = { SC/67B/CMP/15},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {483},

pages = {16},

abstract = {In 2017-18, seven unidentified baleen whales, two Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni) and two

humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) have been reported from the west coast of India (eastern

Arabian Sea). The stranding and sighting reports are summarised here. Fishers were interviewed from

south Gujarat to west Tamil Nadu, for baleen whale sighting events to identify hotspots, and to collect

community perceptions towards baleen whales. Based on these interviews, along with data on

strandings, opportunistic song recordings, and the recent presence of a satellite tagged whale from

Oman, seven regions have been identified as hotspots and habitats used by humpback whales.

Humpback whales in these areas seem to be common during the months of January to March. We

continue our work in 2018-20 with systematic vessel based surveys using dipping hydrophones in four

of the seven hotspots. We recommend dedicated baleen whale surveys and collaborative efforts with

local and international teams, to carry out in-depth analyses of stranding events, and for a larger

coverage in visual surveys with the future use of static passive acoustic monitoring systems.},

keywords = {acoustics, Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Bryde's whale, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Persian Gulf, ship strike, song, stranding},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Planning for responsible humpback whale watching in Oman},

author = {Baldwin, R.,Willson, A.,Al Baluchi, A.,Al Jabri, A.},

issn = { SC/67A/WW/03},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {311},

pages = {17},

abstract = {The emerging whale watching industry in Oman includes one small-scale tour operator targeting

Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales, as well as other operators that opportunistically encounter this

species. Guidelines for whale watching in Oman were developed in 2013/14 as part of an IWC-supported

project that also included awareness-raising and initial training of tour operators and vessel captains in key

locations. This formed the basis of the current study which aims to identify requirements to minimise the

potentially negative impacts of whale watching on Arabian Sea humpback whales specifically, whilst also

highlighting some key business approaches for achieving responsibly-managed whale watching in Oman.

The whale watching industry in Oman has potential for growth and should be appropriately guided in

advance of expansion. A road map of actions towards this goal is outlined, aimed at government and

private sector stakeholders. Recommendations are also made for monitoring and controlling whale

watching activities pending further research. Further training of operators (especially vessel captains) is

still required to ensure responsible boat handling around whales and improved planning towards a more

sustainable industry. The use of whale watching vessel as a platform for collection of scientific data has

been initiated at one location. Draft regulations to help govern the industry in Oman have been prepared

and are under review by Oman’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs. Although focused on

humpback whales, the study also recommends that results are applied to other species and identifies

priorities for data collection to fill existing knowledge gaps.},

keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, disturbance, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Threat assessment, tourism, Whale watching},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {On the presence of humpback whales in the Persian Gulf: rare or rarely documented?},

author = {Dakteh, S.M.H.,Ranjbar, S.,Moazeni, M.,Mohsenian, Nazanin,Delshab, H.,Moshiri, H.,Van Waerebeek, K},

issn = { SC/67A/CMP/14},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {78},

pages = {7},

abstract = {We critically review the evidence for humpback whale presence in the Persian Gulf. Five specimen records, assumed to belong to the

endangered Arabian Sea population, are confirmed in the period 1883- 2017: Bassore Bay, Iraq; Doha, Qatar; Kuwait Inner harbour,

Kuwait; Qeshm Island, Iran; and Akhtar, Bushehr Province, Iran. The two Iranian cases, both juveniles, are newly recorded. With

accumulating reports, an alternate hypothesis to 'rare stragglers' deserves consideration, one in which Arabian Sea humpback whales

may enter the Persian Gulf with some regularity, perhaps as normal visitors, if not permanent residents. Deficiency of records may

reflect a general sparsity of whale research effort in the Persian Gulf. The historical description of Megaptera indica Gervais, 1883 is

translated from French.},

keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Persian Gulf, ship strike, stranding},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@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}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Cetaceans of the Red Sea},

author = {Notarbartolo di Sciara, G,Kerem, D.,Smeenk, C.},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {CMS Technical series 33},

volume = {33},

number = {185},

pages = {86},

publisher = {Convention on Migratory Species},

abstract = {Based on a review of the literature, complemented by original observations at sea made by the authors during the

past 34 years, the cetacean fauna in the Red Sea appears to be composed of a total of 16 species: three Mysticetes

(Bryde’s whale, Balaenoptera edeni; Omura’s whale, B. omurai; and humpback whale, Megaptera novaeangliae) and

13 Odontocetes (dwarf sperm whale, Kogia sima; killer whale, Orcinus orca; false killer whale, Pseudorca crassidens;

short-finned pilot whale, Globicephala macrorhynchus; Risso’s dolphin, Grampus griseus; Indian Ocean humpback

dolphin, Sousa plumbea; rough-toothed dolphin, Steno bredanensis; Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops

aduncus; common bottlenose dolphin, T. truncatus; pantropical spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata; spinner dolphin,

S. longirostris; striped dolphin, S. coeruleoalba; Indo-Pacific common dolphin, Delphinus delphis tropicalis).

This review presents the very first documented and confirmed sightings of B. omurai, K. sima and S. bredanensis

in the Red Sea. Of all the above species, however, only nine (Bryde’s whale, false killer whale, Risso’s dolphin, Indian

Ocean humpback dolphin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, common bottlenose dolphin, pantropical spotted dolphin,

spinner dolphin, and Indo-Pacific common dolphin) appeared to occur regularly in the Red Sea, the remaining seven

only occurring sporadically as vagrants from the Indian Ocean. Even regular species appeared not to be uniformly

distributed throughout the Red Sea, e.g., with Indo-Pacific common dolphins mostly limited to the southern portion

of the region, and the Gulf of Suez only hosting the two bottlenose dolphin species and Indian Ocean humpback

dolphins. No convincing evidence was found of the Red Sea occurrence of two whale species mentioned in the

literature: the common minke whale, Balaenoptera acutorostrata, and the sperm whale, Physeter macrocephalus.

The absence from the region of deep diving species (e.g., Ziphiidae and the sperm whale) can be explained by the

geomorphology of the Straits of Bab al Mandab, with its extended shallow sill likely to discourage incursions by

such species into the Red Sea. The coordinated effort and the different expertise of the authors has contributed to

amending previous mistakes and inaccuracies, verifying and validating specimen identification, highlighting features

of relevance for species taxonomy and, most importantly, drawing a fundamental baseline to inform conservation of

cetaceans in the Red Sea},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, cetaceans, Distribution, Egypt, occurrence, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Baleen Whale Records from India},

author = {Sutaria, D.,Sule, M.,Jog, K.,Bopardikar, I.,Jamalabad, A.,Panicker, D.},

issn = { SC/67A/CMP/03_Rev},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {241},

pages = {16},

abstract = {The current presence of three baleen whale species, the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus), Bryde’s

whale (Balaenoptera edeni) and the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) was assessed along

the Indian coastline via sighting and stranding records. The available literature was reviewed to

understand the frequency and distribution of stranding events along the coastline. Fisherfolk were

interviewed to obtain information on baleen whale sightings and community perceptions towards

whales. We found that blue and Bryde’s whales are recorded from both the east and west coasts and

humpback whales from the west coast only. During 2015-2016, the majority of strandings were

reported from Maharashtra and Karnataka. In March 2017, at least one humpback whale sighting was

confirmed from recorded vocalisations off the Goa coast. An investigation of the ongoing fisheries has

also revealed a steep decline in commercial fisheries and an 82% decline in the Sardines in 2015-16.

With this scenario in mind, we recommend continuation of dedicated baleen whale surveys and

collaborative efforts with local regional authorities to carry out in-depth analyses of strandings and

document the ecology of whales in Indian waters.},

keywords = {acoustics, Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Bryde's whale, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Persian Gulf, ship strike, song, stranding},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@techreport{,

title = {Preliminary ensemble ecological niche modelling of Arabian Sea humpback whale vessel sightings and satellite telemetry data},

author = {Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Collins, T.,Godley, B.J.,Minton, G.,Al Harthi, S.,Pikesley, Stephen K,Witt, Matthew J},

issn = { SC/67A/CMP/15},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},

number = {502},

pages = {17},

abstract = {Ensemble ecological niche modelling (EENM) can provide insight into the relationship between marine mammals and

their environment and can predict distribution beyond the range of observed locations. The technique can be used to

identify sites for future field research and guide conservation and management activities. The spatial ecology of Arabian

Sea humpback whales (ASHWs) has been described off the coast of Oman, although a paucity of information exists

from which to describe their distribution across the rest of their potential range. Here we present an ensemble ecological

niche modelling framework to predict habitat suitability of ASHWs across the north Indian Ocean. Sightings data from

Oman-based small vessel surveys (2003-2014) and satellite telemetry records (2014-2016) were used along with

environmental co-variate data from a season between December and May. Net primary productivity featured as the only

co-variate with a strong influence on models for both datasets. Model test evaluation metrics scored >0.9, and mapped

outputs of likely distribution highlighted spatial similarity across multiple models. Telemetry data predicted suitable

habitat to be further offshore than the models derived from sightings data. All resulting distribution maps described

areas of high suitability (index value <0.75) along the southern and central coast of Oman and of the northern Arabian

Sea between the Gulf of Kutch and sub-marine canyon features off the Indus delta. There was good spatial concordance

between ensemble model predictions with actual locations of Soviet catches of humpback whales in the northern Indian

Ocean between 1964 and 1966. Both the telemetry and the sightings data were temporally sporadic in their coverage

(across months) and biologically biased (towards males) and as such results from our preliminary efforts should be

considered in light of these caveats. However, these preliminary results are valuable and indicate likely co-occurrence

with high density shipping traffic routes in the region and target additional areas for focussed field surveys. Results

from this study should be considered together with results of recent north Indian Ocean blue whale ENM studies to help

guide future research and conservation management objectives in the region.},

keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, ensemble niche modeling, habitat modelling, habitat preference, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Persian Gulf, Satellite telemetry},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {techreport}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}