@article{,

title = {Using emerging hot spot analysis of stranding records to inform conservation management of a data-poor cetacean species},

author = {Betty, Emma L.,Bollard, Barbara,Murphy, Sinéad,Ogle, Mike,Hendriks, Hannah,Orams, Mark B.,Stockin, Karen A.},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-019-01903-8},

issn = {1572-9710},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Biodiversity and Conservation},

number = {327},

abstract = {Conservation monitoring of highly mobile species in relatively inaccessible habitats presents a considerable challenge to wildlife biologists. Effective conservation strategies require knowledge of cetacean ecology that is often challenging and expensive to obtain. Despite their caveats, stranding data represent an underused resource to study the long-term dynamics of cetacean populations. Using long-finned pilot whale (LFPW; Globicephala melas edwardii) strandings on the New Zealand coast as a case study, we present a novel approach to demonstrate how stranding data can inform conservation management of data-poor species. A total of 8571 LFPWs stranded on the New Zealand coast within a 40-year period between January 1978 and December 2017. Overall, where sex was recorded, mass stranded adults were significantly biased towards females, while a significant male bias was observed in juveniles. Strandings occurred in all months, though significant seasonal variation was evident, with 66% of stranding events reported during austral spring and summer months (October–February). Hot spot analysis (ArcGIS) identified the majority of LFPWs stranded at Golden Bay, Great Barrier Island, Stewart Island and the Chatham Islands, with emerging hot spot analysis (ArcGIS) used to identify spatiotemporal trends. While emerging hot spot analysis revealed no significant temporal trend in the annual frequency of stranding events or numbers of individuals stranded, it did reveal a significant spatiotemporal trend, with the numbers of stranded individuals declining in areas of the Far North, Coromandel, Canterbury, Otago and the Chatham Islands, and increasing in Golden Bay and Stewart Island. When combined with other contextual information, such trends help identify the most significant clusters of LFPW strandings on the New Zealand coast, provide baseline ecological data on a poorly understood subspecies, and can be used to guide conservation management of G. m. edwardii in New Zealand waters.},

keywords = {Distribution, Globicephala melas, Long finned pilot whale, mass mortality, Mass Stranding, New Zealand, stranding},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Growing knowledge of cetacean fauna in the Emirate of Fujairah, UAE},

author = {Baldwin, R.,Willson, A.,Looker, E.,Buzas, B.},

url = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/360642888_Baldwin_R_Willson_A_Looker_E_Buzas_B_2018_Growing_knowledge_of_cetacean_fauna_in_the_Emirate_of_Fujairah_UAE_-_Tribulus_26_32-41

},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

urldate = {2018-01-01},

journal = {Tribulus},

volume = {26},

number = {313},

abstract = {Most records of cetaceans in the United Arab Emirates come from relatively few studies undertaken in Arabian Gulf

waters. However, recent study off the coast of Fujairah, in the Gulf of Oman, has revealed a rich diversity of cetaceans

with 11 or more species now known to occur in the emirate. Among them are three new records for the UAE, spotted,

striped and rough-toothed dolphins, as well as infrequently recorded large whales such as sperm, Bryde’s and blue

whales. Most species are primarily distributed in offshore waters over 500 m deep, though some species, such as the

Indo-Pacific common dolphin, also regularly occur closer to shore, including within the Port of Fujairah anchorage area.

Continuing research aims to investigate the population size, status and structure of cetaceans present in waters off

Fujairah using a variety of line transect, photographic, genetic and acoustic research techniques.},

keywords = {Distribution, Gulf of Oman, rough-toothed dolphin, stenella coeruleoalba, steno bredanensis, Striped dolphin, United Arab Emirates},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Seasonal encounter rates and residency patterns of an unstudied population of bottlenose dolphin (},

author = {Baş, Aylin,Erdoğan, Mehmet Akif,Richard Charles Morris, Neil,Yeoman, Kathryn,Humphrey, Ophelie,Gaggioli, Elisa,Roland, Chloe},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Hyla: Herpetological Bulletin},

volume = {Vol.2016},

number = {325},

pages = {1-13},

abstract = {Insufficient data regarding abundance, distribution and movement patterns of bottlenose dolphins has contributed to lack of effective conservation strategies within the Levantine Sea. It has been inferred that the bottlenose dolphin population has decreased by 30 % in the last 60 years, thus a basin wide research effort on the population is an urgent priority. We present the preliminary results of the first bottlenose dolphin photo-identification study in the northwestern Levantine Sea. 32 boat surveys were conducted from March 2015 to July 2016, totalling 1433 km of survey effort. Current study reported an uneven distribution, high seasonal encounters and varied residency patterns of bottlenose dolphins within the northwestern Levantine Sea. We propose that the northwestern Levantine Sea, specifically the coastal waters of Antalya Bay, indeed is an important bottlenose dolphin habitat and adjacent waters may be of similar significance. Of the 51 individuals catalogued, 13 were re-sighted in both years. Encounter rates varied seasonally, with a peak in spring of 12 groups and 100 individuals per 100 km. Dolphin presence was not detected during autumn and winter. While seasonal, visitor and transient dolphins were reported, no year-round residency was documented. Incidental observations of visible starvation signs and skin parasites suggested individual dolphins in this region could be under anthropogenic stressors. The results reported here highlight the importance of baseline information on encounter rate, distribution and residency pattern as they have a key role on the assessment of population statues and the threats they are facing. Future studies with annual survey effort, have to be continued in the northwestern Levantine Sea and its adjacent waters.},

keywords = {Antalya Bay, bottlenose dolphin, Distribution, Levantine Sea, residency, tursiops truncatus},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {The Persian Gulf is part of the habitual range of the Arabian Sea Humpback whale population},

author = {Dakhteh, Seyed M. H.,Ranjbar, Sharif,Moazeni, Mostafa,Mohsenian, Nazanin,Delshab, Hossein,Moshiri, Hamed,Nabavi, Seyed M. B.,Van Waerebeek, Koen},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Marine Biology & Oceanography},

volume = {6},

number = {77},

pages = {1-6},

abstract = {The humpback whale has long been considered a rare straggler into the Persian Gulf, however new evidence contradicts this concept. We here critically review published and new records for Megaptera novaeangliae occurrence in the Gulf for the period 1883-2017. Of eight authenticated records (6 specimens, 2 live-sightings), seven are contemporary cases while one is a mid-Holocene specimen from UAE. An additional four are possible but unsubstantiated reports. Four regional, current, range states are confirmed, i.e. Iran, Iraq, Kuwait and Qatar. Four of the five newly reported cases are from Iran's coastal waters. We conclude that the Persian Gulf is part of the habitual range of the Arabian Sea humpback whale population, and has been since at least the mid-Holocene. It is unknown whether frequent passage occurs through the Strait of Hormuz or whether whales are (semi)resident. The low abundance of this endangered population and frequent deleterious anthropogenic events, particularly ship strikes and net entanglements, are cause for major concern. In view of its historical and taxonomic relevance, the formal description of Megaptera indica Gervais, 1883, from Iraq, now thought to be a subspecies M. novaeangliae indica, is here translated from French.%U http://www.biorxiv.org/content/biorxiv/early/2017/09/06/185033.full.pdf},

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

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {First record of Omura’s whale, Balaenoptera omurai, in Sri Lankan waters},

author = {de Vos, Asha},

url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s41200-017-0121-2},

issn = {1755-2672},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Marine Biodiversity Records},

volume = {10},

number = {82},

pages = {18},

abstract = {An unusually coloured, small baleen whale was documented off the southern coast of Sri Lanka in February 2017 during routine field surveys. Based on five distinct morphological characteristics including jaw asymmetry, presence of a prominent central rostral ridge, blaze on right side, asymmetrical chevron on left and right sides and a strongly falcate dorsal fin the individual was positively identified as an Omura’s whale (Balaenoptera omurai). This discovery represents the first confirmed sighting of Omura’s whale in Sri Lankan and therefore central Northern Indian Ocean waters.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, balaenoptera omurai, Distribution, Northern Indian Ocean, Omura's Whale, Sri Lanka},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@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}

}

@article{,

title = {Spatial models of sparse data to inform cetacean conservation planning: an example from Oman},

author = {Corkeron, Peter J,Collins, Gianna Minton Tim,Findlay, Ken,Willson, Andrew,Baldwin, Robert},

url = {https://www.int-res.com/articles/esr_oa/n015p039.pdf},

issn = {1863-5407},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Endangered Species Research},

volume = {15},

number = {353},

pages = {39-52},

abstract = {Habitat models are tools for understanding the relationship between cetaceans and their

environment, from which patterns of the animals’ space use can be inferred and management strategies

developed. Can working with space use alone be sufficient for management, when habitat cannot

be modeled? Here, we analyzed cetacean sightings data collected from small boat surveys off the

coast of Oman between 2000 and 2003. The waters off Oman are used by the Endangered Arabian

Sea population of humpback whales. Our data were collected primarily for photo-identification, using

a haphazard sampling regime, either in areas where humpback whales were thought to be relatively

abundant, or in areas that were logistically easy to survey. This leads to spatially autocorrelated data

that are not amenable to analysis using standard approaches. We used quasi-Poisson generalized linear

models and semi-parametric spatial filtering to assess the distribution of humpback and Bryde’s

whales in 3 areas off Oman relative to 3 simple physiographic variables in a survey grid. Our analysis

focused on the spatial eigenvector filtering of models, coupled with the spatial distribution of model

residuals, rather than just on model predictions. Spatial eigenvector filtering accounts for spatial

autocorrelation in models, allowing inference to be made regarding the relative importance of particular

areas. As an exemplar of this approach, we demonstrate that the Dhofar coast of southern Oman

is important habitat for the Arabian Sea population of humpback whales. We also suggest how conservation

planning for mitigating impacts on humpback whales off the Dhofar coast could start.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, cetaceans, Distribution, General linear model, habitat modelling, habitat use, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, Spatial autocorrelation},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Seasonal distribution, abundance, habitat use and population identity of humpback whales in Oman},

author = {Minton,G.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Findlay,K.P.,Ersts,P.J.,Rosenbaum,H.C.,Berggren,P.,Baldwin,R.M.},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Cetacean Research and Management},

volume = {Special Issue on Southern Hemisphere Hum},

number = {415},

pages = {185–198},

abstract = {Published data on the occurrence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Arabian Sea suggest that the region hosts a non-migratory population that adheres to a Northern Hemisphere breeding cycle.  Twelve small boat surveys were conducted at three main locations off the coast of Oman between February 2000 and November 2004 to investigate the distribution and seasonal abundance of humpback whales and other cetaceans.

     An even ratio of males and females were observed and sampled during surveys in the Gulf of  Masirah (Gulf of Masirah) in October and November (n=38), while almost all whales sampled in Dhofar in February/March were male (n=28). Song was detected frequently in the bay surrounding the Halaniyat Islands (formerly known as the Kuria Muria Bay) in February/March, but observations of mother-calf pairs were sparse, and competitive groups were absent.  Feeding was observed in both October/November and February/March, but behavioural and environmental observations indicate that the Gulf of Masirah is primarily an important feeding ground, while the Dhofar region, particularly the Halaniyat Bay, may be a breeding area.  However, a lack of recent observations of both mother-calf pairs and competitive groups raises the possibility that the primary mating, calving and nursing areas are yet to be identified.

     Of the 64 whales that have been identified using photographs of dorsal fins or tail flukes, six individuals have been observed on at least two surveys, four individuals on three surveys, one on four surveys and one on five separate surveys. Identified individuals were re-sighted in both the Gulf of Masirah and Dhofar at different times of the year and across survey years, indicating year-round residence off the coast of Oman.  

     A Chapman's modified Petersen estimator was applied to various data pairings to calculate abundance.  All pairings yielded estimates of less than 100 individuals, but sample sizes are small and there are various sources of possible bias. Analysis of scarring on the caudal peduncle region of identified individuals in Oman indicates that between 30 and 40% are likely to have been involved in entanglements with fishing gear.

      Comparison of the Oman photo-identification catalogue with those from Zanzibar, Antongil Bay (Madagascar) and Mayotte and the Geyser Atoll (Comoros Archipelago), yielded no photographic matches. These data are consistent with the hypothesis of a discrete population. The distribution of fluke pigmentation rankings from the Oman catalogue, which varied significantly from those of Madagascar and Mayotte, provides further evidence for this theory.},

keywords = {Distribution, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Oman, population, population characteristics, whale, whales},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Marine Mammal Records from Iran},

author = {Braulik,G.,Ranjbar,S.,Owfi,F.,Aminrad,T.,Dakhteh,S.M.H.,Kamrani,E.,Mohsenizadeh,F.},

year  = {2010},

date = {2010-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Cetacean Research and Management},

volume = {11},

number = {334},

pages = {49-63},

abstract = {A total of 114 marine mammal records of 14 species were compiled from Iranian coastalwaters of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Eighty-one were from the Persian Gulf, 23from the Gulf of Oman and 10 were of unknown location. Records of finless porpoise(Neophocaena phocaenoides) (24), Indo-pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) (22)and Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) (21) were by far the most numerousa probable reflection of their inshore distribution and local abundance. Other speciesrecorded were common dolphin (Delphinus capensis tropicalis), rough-toothed dolphin(Steno bredanensis), striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), spinner dolphin (Stenellalongirostris), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens),sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and dugong (Dugong dugon). Records of 24Mysticetes were compiled, 11 of which were tentatively identified as Bryde's whales(Balaenoptera edeni), three as Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), three as Humpbackwhales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and the remainder were unidentified. The largest threat tomarine mammals in Iran is likely to be incidental capture in fishing gear. Nine finlessporpoises were recorded as bycatch and this and other coastal species may be declining dueto unsustainable mortality rates. Other threats to the marine environment are discussed andrecommended marine mammal conservation and management small projects are described.},

keywords = {abundance, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, Common dolphin, conservation, Distribution, dolphin, dugong, fin whale, Finless Porpoise, fishing gear, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, killer whale, location, mammals, management, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, mortality, mysticete, mysticetes, Oman, Porpoise, Risso's dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, Spinner dolphin, whale, whales},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Sighting of Whales and Dolphins in the Arabian Sea off Oman during 2007-2008},

author = {Gheilani, H.M.,Jayabalan, N.},

year  = {2010},

date = {2010-01-01},

journal = {Environment and Ecology},

volume = {28},

number = {378},

pages = {2768—2776},

abstract = {During the fishery survey cruises of R. V. Al Mustaqila 1 conducted in the Arabian Sea EEZ of Oman

between September 2007 and September 2008, three species of whales such as humpback whale (Megaptera

novaeagliae), sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and killer whale (Orcinus orca) and, two species of

dolphins, namely the long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) and spinner dolphin (Stenella

longirostris) were recorded along with few unidentified whales and dolphins. Most whale sightings (85%)

were recorded between Ras al Hadd to Ras Madrakah at depths ranging from 20 m to 200 m during April,

May, September—November usually with 1—6 individuals. The seasons of sighting of dolphins were during

February and May (17 sightinga) and September and November (11 sightings) between Ras al Hadd and Ras

Soqarah and 70% of the sightings recorded less than 100 individuals. While the temperature of the water in

the survey ranged from 18.4 C to 24.7 C, there was less variation in salinity (35.68, 36.62 ppt) of the

water. The current study indicated that the Arabian Sea off Oman is an important site for the distribution

of the ceatacean fauna.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Common dolphin, Distribution, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, Oman, Orca, Spinner dolphin},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {A note on cetacean distribution in the Indian EEZ and contiguous seas during 2003-07},

author = {Afsal, V.V.,Yousuf, K.M.M.,Anoop, B.,Anoop, A. K.,Kannan, P.,Rajagopalan, M.,Vivekanandan, E.},

year  = {2008},

date = {2008-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Cetacean Research and Management},

volume = {10},

number = {2},

pages = {209-215},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, Distribution, India, Indian Ocean},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Past and present distribution, densities and movements of blue whales },

author = {Branch, T.A.,Stafford, K.M.,Palacios, D. M.,Allison, C.,Bannister, J.L,Burton, C.L.K.,Cabrera, E.,Carlson, C.A.,Galletti Vernazzani, B.,Gill, P.C.,Hucke-Gaete, R.,Jenner, K.C.S.,Jenner, M-N.,Matsuoka, K.,Mikhalev, Y.A.,Miyashita, T.,Morrice, M.G.,Nishiwaki, S.,Sturrock, V.J.,Tormosov, D.D.,Anderson, R.C.,Baker, A. N.,Best, P.B.,Borsa, P.,Brownell Jr, R.L.,Childerhouse, S.,Findlay, K.,Gerrodette, T.,Ilangakoon, A.,Joergensen, M.,Khan, B.,Ljungblad, D.K.,Maughan, B.,McCauley, R.D.,McKay, S.,Norris, T.F.,Oman Whale and Dolphin Research Group,Rankin, S.,Samaran, F.,Thiele, D.,Van Waerebeek, K.,Warneke, R.M.},

year  = {2007},

date = {2007-01-01},

journal = {Mammal Review},

volume = {37},

number = {332},

pages = {116-175},

abstract = {1. Blue whale locations in the Southern Hemisphere and northern Indian Ocean were

obtained from catches (303 239), sightings (4383 records of  8058 whales), strandings (103),

Discovery marks (2191) and recoveries (95), and acoustic recordings.

2. Sighting surveys included 7 480 450 km of effort plus 14 676 days with unmeasured effort.

Groups usually consisted of solitary whales (65.2%) or pairs (24.6%); larger feeding aggregations

of unassociated individuals were only rarely observed. Sighting rates (groups per

1000 km from many platform types) varied by four orders of magnitude and were lowest in

the waters of Brazil, South Africa, the eastern tropical Pacific, Antarctica and South Georgia;

higher in the Subantarctic and Peru; and highest around Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Chile,

southern Australia and south of Madagascar.

3. Blue whales avoid the oligotrophic central gyres of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic

Oceans, but are more common where phytoplankton densities are high, and where there are

dynamic oceanographic processes like upwelling and frontal meandering.

4. Compared with historical catches, the Antarctic (‘true’) subspecies is exceedingly rare and

usually concentrated closer to the summer pack ice. In summer they are found throughout the

Antarctic; in winter they migrate to southern Africa (although recent sightings there are rare)

and to other northerly locations (based on acoustics), although some overwinter in the

Antarctic.

5. Pygmy blue whales are found around the Indian Ocean and from southern Australia to

New Zealand. At least four groupings are evident: northern Indian Ocean, from Madagascar

to the Subantarctic, Indonesia to western and southern Australia, and from New Zealand

northwards to the equator. Sighting rates are typically much higher than for Antarctic blue

whales.},

keywords = {balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, breeding grounds, Distribution, feeding grounds, Indian Ocean, Oman, Southern Hemispher},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Feeding ecology of small cetaceans in the Sultanate of Oman},

author = {Ponnampalam,L.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Minton,G.,Baldwin,R},

year  = {2007},

date = {2007-01-01},

journal = {Poster presented at the 17th meeting of the Society for Marine Mammals in Cape Town},

number = {433},

abstract = {Beach surveys were conducted along the coast of Oman between 2000 and 2006 to locate and examine cetacean remains. This study examines the stomach contents of 11 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops sp.), 5 Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) and 2 spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) that were found beach-cast along the Omani coastline. Across the three species examined, a total of 4796 fish otoliths and 214 cephalopod beaks were found, representing 36 species in 23 families. No crustacean remains were found. Prey item importance was calculated using the percentage by number (%N), and percentage by frequency of occurrence (%FO) methods, and a modified index of relative importance (IRI). Percentage similarity was also calculated to examine interspecific and intraspecific dietary overlap. All three species of dolphins examined here ate mainly fish. The fish families Apogonidae and Carangidae were the most numerically important prey in the diet of bottlenose dolphins. Sciaenidae was the most numerically important fish family for humpback dolphins. Mesopelagic fishes comprised the diet of spinner dolphins, with the myctophid Benthosema pterotum forming the bulk of the prey items. The cephalopod preys found in the stomach samples were represented by the families Sepiidae, Loliginidae and Onychoteuthidae. The frequency distribution of prey items indicate that the bottlenose dolphins fed in a wide variety of habitats, and may reflect the occurrence of at least two species or ecotypes of Tursiops in Oman. The humpback dolphin prey items indicate feeding in coastal, nearshore areas with soft substrate. Spinner dolphins appeared to feed in the upper 200m of the water column on nocturnal vertically migrating prey. Although most of the prey species do not appear to be of commercial importance, the findings of this study indicated that all three species of dolphins were feeding in areas where fishing occurs and this is likely to have conservation implications. },

keywords = {bottlenose dolphin, bottlenose dolphins, cephalopod, cetacean, cetaceans, conservation, diet, Distribution, dolphin, dolphins, ecology, feeding, feeding ecology, fish, habitat, humpback dolphins, occurrence, Oman, prey, Spinner dolphin, Stenella longirostris, stomach contents, survey, tursiops},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin of the Arabian region: a status review},

author = {Baldwin,R.M.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Van Waerebeek,K.,Minton,G.},

url = {https://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=247:the-indo-pacific-humpback-dolphin-of-the-arabian-region-a-status-review&catid=13&Itemid=157},

year  = {2004},

date = {2004-01-01},

journal = {Aquatic Mammals},

volume = {30},

number = {319},

pages = {111-124},

abstract = {Records of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin sightings, strandings, and museum specimens in the Arabian region were compiled and used to review the distribution and status of this species. Nominal usage of Sousa chinensis (Osbeck, 1765) has been retained as a pragmatic measure, although the species present in the region resembles Sousa plumbea (G. Cuvier, 1828). Little is known about the ecology of this species in the region. Most available information on S. chinensis in the region originates from the Sultanate of Oman, where this species is among the most commonly recorded cetaceans. However, there is no absolute measure of abundance for anywhere in the region and the status of the species is unknown. Distribution is described for the region to include much of the Arabian (Persian) Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, but notably excludes the Gulf of Oman. This discontinuous distribution suggests the possible presence of discrete populations within the region. Beach-cast/dead individuals represent nearly two-thirds of all records (n=303) of this species in Oman. Live sightings indicate unusually large group sizes (up to 100 individuals) in the Arabian Sea and Arabian Gulf. Occasional associations with Tursiops sp. and Delphinus capensis tropicalis were documented. Mating behaviour and the presence of calves were recorded in the months of April and May and calves are also reported in June, October, November and December. Threats to humpback dolphins in the Arabian region include incidental capture in fishing nets, coastal and offshore development (e.g. land reclamation, dredging, port and harbour construction), pollution, boat traffic, oil and gas exploration (including seismic surveying), military exercises and biotoxins associated with red tide events. Evidence for historic and current directed catches of S. chinensis is limited, but opportunistic hunting may occur. Intraspecific variation in cranial measurements of individuals from the Arabian Sea coast of Oman fall within relative values found in individuals from the Saudi Arabian Gulf coast. Cranial abnormalities were few. Recommendations are made for conservation management-oriented research focusing on stock identity and status assessments, as well as for monitoring of fisheries bycatch, clearer definition of other threats, continued specimen and sample collection and training of local scientists.},

keywords = {abundance, Arabian Gulf, Arabian region, Arabian Sea, associations, behaviour, Boat traffic, cetacean, cetaceans, conservation, development, Distribution, dolphin, dolphins, ecology, Fisheries, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, humpback dolphins, incidental capture, military, museum specimens, nets, Oman, pollution, population, populations, Red Sea, status, Stock identity, Strandings, tursiops},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Temporal variability of deep-sea zooplankton in the Arabian Sea},

author = {Koppelman,R.,Fabian,H.,Weikert,H.},

year  = {2003},

date = {2003-01-01},

journal = {Marine Biology},

volume = {142},

number = {138},

pages = {959-970},

abstract = {Mesozooplankton samples from two stations in the Arabian Sea (W AST, 4,050 in, 16 degrees 15'N, 60 degrees 20'E; CAST, 3,950 in, 14 degrees 30'N, 64 degrees 30'E) were collected from the surface down to 20 in above bottom during three monsoon periods: the autumn inter-monsoon in October 1995, the spring inter-monsoon in April 1997 , and the NE monsoon in February 1998. The main goal of this study is to enhance our knowledge on the effect of spatial and temporal differences in primary production and particle flux rates on the abundance and distribution of  mesozooplankton, with special attention to the deep sea. Literature data indicate episodically high rates of primary production and particle flux in the region during the sw monsoon and the autumn intermonsoon. Set in this context, the zooplankton showed an in-phase coupling in biomass and abundance with the primary production in the surface 150 in. In the mesopelagic realm (150-1,050 in), the seasonal coupling was less clear. In the bathypelagic zone, below 1 ,050 m, there was no evidence of in-phase coupling, though temporal differences in the distribution of zooplankton abundance and biomass with depth between seasons could be shown by an analysis of covariance and an a posteriori test. The results suggest that the bathypelagic community responds to increased particle flux rates, but with longer time gaps than in the epipelagic zone. This is probably due to longer development and response times of zooplankton in the cold, deep-water environment independent of possible lateral advection processes.},

keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, depth, Distribution, zooplankton},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Distribution, annual cycle, and vertical migration of acoustically derived biomass in the Arabian Sea during 1994-1995},

author = {Ashjian,C.J.,Smtih,S.L.,Flagg,C.N.,Idrisi,N.},

year  = {2002},

date = {2002-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {49},

number = {299},

pages = {2377-2402},

abstract = {The distinguishing characteristic that sets the Arabian Sea apart from other oceanic regions is the regular oscillation of monsoonal atmospheric conditions that produces predictable periods of upwelling or convective mixing, with associated biological response, during the Southwest and Northeast monsoons, respectively. This oscillation is also evident in cycles of standing stocks of zooplankton and micronekton. The vertical distribution and spatial pattern of zooplankton and micronekton biomass were estimated using an acoustic Doppler current profiler along a 1000-km transect extending from the continental shelf of Oman to the central Arabian Sea during ten cruises on the R/V Thomas G. Thompson (November 1994-December 1995). The influence of the Southwest Monsoon, and accompanying upwelling and enhanced acoustically derived biomass, was the dominant feature in the spatial-temporal distributions of both zooplankton and micronekton near the Omani coast. The diel vertical migration of predators (myctophids, pelagic crabs), and the seasonal changes in the strength of this signal, was the most significant pattern observed in the vertical distribution of biomass and imparted a strong day-night signal to the integrated upper water-column biomass. Significant differences in the magnitude of integrated upper water-column biomass, both zooplankton (day) and migrator-zooplankton (night), were seen between inshore and offshore of the atmospheric Findlater Jet. A station located in the central Arabian Sea demonstrated seasonal changes in biomass over the year, despite being quite far from the influence of the monsoonal oscillations. Predation pressure was greater offshore of the Findlater Jet than in the region inshore of the Jet or in the central Arabian Sea. The pelagic community of the Arabian Sea may have evolved life history strategies to coincide with the predictable monsoonal cycle},

keywords = {acoustic, Arabian Sea, diel, Distribution, history, life history, migration, myctophids, Oceanic, Oman, predation, seasonal change, stocks, Upwelling, zooplankton},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Zooplankton spatial distributions in coastal waters of the northern Arabian Sea, August 1995},

author = {Hitchcock,G.L.,Lane,P.,Smith,S.,Luo,J.G.,Ortner,P.B.},

year  = {2002},

date = {2002-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {49},

number = {387},

pages = {2403-2423},

abstract = {The spatial distribution of zooplankton biomass was surveyed in coastal waters of the northern Arabian Sea during the 1995 Southwest Monsoon (August) on cruise MB 95-06 of the NOAA Ship Malcolm Baldrige.  Vertical patterns of displacement volumes from a limited set of paired day-night MOCNESS tows suggest there was little diel vertical migration in the coastal waters off the southern Arabian Peninsula. Zooplankton biomass varied from 5.2 to 15.1 9 dw m(-2) (178-517mM Cm-2) in the upper 200-300m of Omani coastal waters. Distributions of acoustic backscatter were mapped in eight daytime acoustic Doppler current profiler transects in coastal waters off Oman and Somalia. Several transects contained maxima in acoustic backscatter that coincided with cool, fresh surface features that were several tens of kilometers wide. Although there was considerable scatter in the relationship between acoustically determined biomass (ADB) of zooplankton and surface temperature, there was a trend of increased biomass in the cool surface temperatures of the Omani upwelling zone. Acoustic transects crossed two filaments that extended seaward from upwelling centers off Oman and Somalia. Estimated zooplankton ADB exported from the upwelling zones in the surface features was on the order of 300 kg dw s( -1 ). The physical and biological characteristics of filaments maintain zooplankton associated with upwelling areas, such as Calanoides carinatus, as they are advected offshore from coastal upwelling zones. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.},

keywords = {acoustic, Arabian Sea, displacement, Distribution, migration, Oman, surface temperature, temperature, trend, Upwelling, zooplankton},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Lipid biomarker  fluxes in the Arabian Sea, with a comparison to the equatorial Pacific Ocean},

author = {Wakeham,S.G.,Peterson,M.L.,Hedges,J.I.,Lee,C.},

year  = {2002},

date = {2002-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {49 },

number = {495},

pages = {2265-2301},

abstract = {Fluxes and distributions of organic carbon (OC) and lipid biomarkers were measured in the western Arabian Sea as a function of season, depth, and distance from the coast of Oman during the US JGOFS Arabian Sea Process Study in 1994-1995. A strong seasonal pattern in OC and lipid flux is related to the annual monsoon cycle in the western Arabian Sea, with the highest fluxes measured during the Southwest Monsoon. Fluxes were greatly attenuated with depth in the water column and in surface sediments as remineralization effectively consumed particulate organic matter. A comparison of water-column fluxes with OC and lipid accumulation rates in sediments confirms that the water- sediment interface is a ''hot-spot'' for organic matter degradation. Biomarker compositions also varied seasonally and with distance offshore, reflecting seasonal and spatial succession of their biological sources and their subsequent export through the water column. Degradation of OC and biomarkers was extremely efficient, with only a tiny fraction (<1%) of their water-column flux preserved in sediments, although a range of compound-specific degradation efficiencies was apparent. This intense degradation has strong implications for contemporary carbon cycling and for interpreting sediment records for paleoceanographic reconstructions.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, depth, Distribution, efficiency, Oman, Pacific Ocean},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Distribution and population separation of Bryde's whale Balaenoptera edeni off southern Africa},

author = {Best,P.B.},

year  = {2001},

date = {2001-01-01},

journal = {Marine Ecology Progress Series},

volume = {220},

number = {44},

pages = {277-289},

abstract = {A review of available catch and biological data suggests that there are 3 populations of Bryde's whales in the Southern African region.  An inshore population (the South African Inshore stock) occurs over hte continental shelf of South Africa, south of about 30§ S and seems to be non-migratory, although there is a movement up the west coast in winter.  A pelagic population (the South-east Atlantic Stock) occurs on the west coast of southern Africa, ranging from equatorial regions to about 34§ S, and appears to migrate north in autumn and south in spring.  Whales from the Southeast Atlantic Stock differ from the South African Inshore Stock in size, scarring, baleen shape, seasonality of reproduction, fecundity and prey types.  both occured in the west coast whaling ground off Donkergat, but with differing seasonalities and distributions from the coast.  Bryde's whales are rare on the east coast of southern Africa, but are found in summer in some numbers south of Madagascar.  Whales from this population are clearly smaller than those from the Southeast Atlantic Stock, but are similar in size to, or even smaller than, those from teh South African Inshore stock.  Their external appearance is unknown, but they differ in prey type from South African Inshore stock, and because of a clear discontinuity in distribution, it is believed that they form a third (pelagic) population (the Southwest Indian Ocean Sstock).  this population may or may not move  normt as far as the Seychelles in winter, but seems to be separate from Bryde's whales in the Arabian Sea.  From their size composition, length at sexual maturity and infrequent capture, Bryde's whales taken at Durban may have repasented strays from ei ther ht eh South African Inshore Stock or the Southwest Indian Ocean Stock, and recorded stomach contents also indicate prey ty pes commn toe either stock. The unusual degree of population differentiation shown by Bryde's whales may be a consequence of hteir limited seasonal migrations and apparent resource partitioning.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bryde's whale, Distribution, Indian Ocean, length, Madagascar, migration, population characteristics, reproduction, sexual maturity, South Africa, whaling},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Mesopelagic fishes of the Arabian Sea: distribution, abundance and diet of },

author = {Butler,M.,Bollens,S.M.,Burghalter,B.,Madin,L.P.,Horgan,E.},

year  = {2001},

date = {2001-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {48},

number = {61},

pages = {1369-1383},

abstract = {Four species of predatory fishes - Chauliodus pammelas, Chauliodus sloani, Stomias afffnis and Stomias nebulosus - were collected on two cruises to the Arabian Sea during 1995. We present data on the abundances, horizontal and vertical distributions, and diet of these fishes. We also discuss briefly the importance of the oxygen minimum zone and predation on myctophid fishes to the ecology of these mesopelagic predators. Chauliodus pammelas and C. sloani appear to have only partially overlapping horizontal distributions in the Arabian Sea, with C. pammelas more common to the north and C. sloani more common to the south. Our data support previous results suggesting that diel vertical migration is the norm for these species, with smaller individuals usually nearer to the surface and larger individuals tending to stay deeper. In contrast to Chauliodus, Stomias affinis and S. nebulosus appear to have largely overlapping horizontal distributions in the Arabian Sea. However, they may have slightly di!erent vertical distributions, with S. affinis living slightly shallower (especially at night) than S. nebulosus. All four species spend most of their time in the oxygen minimum zone, entering the surface oxygenated waters (100-150 m) only at night (if at all). The diets of C. pammelas, C. sloani, and S. affinis consisted mainly of lantern fishes, Myctophidae, and other fishes. In contrast, S. nebulosus, the smaller of the two Stomias species, ate mostly copepods and other crustaceans. This differential feeding may allow the two Stomias species to co-occur. Three of these four stomiids appear to play an important role in predation on myctophid fish populations in the Arabian Sea.},

keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, diel, diet, diets, Distribution, ecology, feeding, migration, oxygen minimum, population, populations, predation, south},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Production and respiration rates in the Arabian Sea during the 1995 Northeast and Southwest Monsoons},

author = {Dickson,M-L.,Orchardo,J.,Barber,R.T.,Marra,J.,McCarthy,J.J.,Sambrotto,R.N.},

year  = {2001},

date = {2001-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {48},

number = {89},

pages = {1199-1230},

abstract = {In this paper we examine the relationships among oxygen, carbon and nitrogen production and respiration rate measurements made in the Arabian Sea during the 1995 Northeast (NEM) and Southwest (SWM) Monsoons. Increased biological production characterized the SWM, with rates 12-53% higher than the NEM. Inmost cases, we found remarkable similarity in production rates during the two monsoons and an absence of strong spatial gradients in production between nearshore and offshore waters, especially during the SWM. Daily 14C and total 15Nproduction underestimated gross C production, and at the majority of stations 14C and total 15N production were either the same as net C production or between gross and net C production. Moreover, new production (15NO3), scaled to carbon, was substantially less than net C production. Approximately 50% of the PO14C was metabolized during the photoperiod, with smaller losses (7-11%) overnight. The simplest explanation for the discrepancy between gross and total 15N production and between net C and new production was the loss of 15N-labeled particulate matter as dissolved organic matter. Partitioning of metabolized gross C production into respiratory and dissolved pools showed distinct onshore-offshore distributions that appeared to be related to the composition of the phytoplankton assemblage and probably reflected the trophodynamics of the ecosystem. The percentage of gross C production released as dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was highest in the nearshore waters where diatoms dominated the phytoplankton assemblage, while community respiration was a more important fate for production further offshore where picoplankton prevailed. In general, stations that retained more gross C production as net production (i.e., high net C/gross C ratios) had higher rates of DOC production relative to community respiration. Locations where community respiration exceeded DOC production were characterized by low rates of net C production and had low net C/gross C ratios. In those ecosystems, less net C production was retained because higher metabolic losses reduced gross C production to a greater extent than at the more productive sites.  },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Distribution, ecosystem, location, nearshore, respiration},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Heterotrophic bacterioplankton in the Arabian Sea: Basinwide response to year-round high primary productivity},

author = {Ducklow,H.W.,Smith,D.C.,Campbell,L.,Landry,M.R.,Quinby,H.L.,Steward,G.F.,Azam,F.},

year  = {2001},

date = {2001-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {48},

number = {90},

pages = {1303-1323},

abstract = {Heterotrophic bacterial abundance and productivity were measured during five and four cruises, respectively, in the northwest Arabian Sea as part of the US JGOFS Process Study, which provided a new view of seasonal bacterial dynamics in that part of the basin influenced by monsoonal forcing. In this paper, surface layer data are used to address two questions concerning the influence of the monsoon cycle on bacterial dynamics: (1) Is there a bacterial bloom in the SW Monsoon? and (2) Is bacterial production low during the oligotrophic Spring Intermonsoon? An extensive comparison of epifluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry, unprecedented at this scale, detected essentially the same heterotrophic bacterial populations and distributions, with some between-cruise di!erences. Use of the two methods allowed us to extend our observations in space and time. Bacterial productivity, both in the surface layer and integrated over the euphotic zone, was elevated less than 2-fold during the Southwest Monsoon. Levels of bacterial abundance and production were low during the Northeast Monsoon, then increased in March during the Spring Intermonsoon. There was some stimulation of abundance or production inshore in response to coastal upwelling. In general, the basin was enriched in bacterial biomass >5 ' 108  cells l-1 throughout the year, relative to other tropical regimes, presumably in response to overall high PP and DOC levels. Seasonally uniform DOC levels may be regulated in part by intense bacterial utilization rates, but also reflect seasonal consistency in PP.},

keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, Distribution, population, populations, productivity, Upwelling},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Northern Arabian Sea variability from TOPEX/Poseidon altimetry data: an extension of the US JGOFS/ONR shipboard ADCP study},

author = {Kim,H-S,Flagg,C.N.,Howden,S.D.},

year  = {2001},

date = {2001-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {48},

number = {134},

pages = {1069-1096},

abstract = {Sea-level anomalies (SLA) derived from the TOPEX/Poseidon (T/P) altimetry and inferred geostrophic currents within the northern Arabian Sea were examined for the period from March 1993 through November 1996. The primary objective of this study was to confirm and extend our understanding of the upper-ocean mesoscale variability observed in the shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) data collected during the US JGOFS/ONR Arabian Sea Expedition (September 1994-January 1996). The accuracy of the T/P altimetry data (~3 cm rms) results in an uncertainty in the altimeter-derived velocities comparable to the ADCP measurement error. Thus the T/P data provide a reasonable method for extending studies of the mesoscale dynamics for the region. Comparison of the T/P-derived geostrophic velocities with concurrent ADCP data showed good correlation, with an r2 between 0.7 and 0.9 and rms di!erences of 10 cm s-1. The T/P data con"rm both the overall spatial and seasonal current patterns observed by the ADCP. The monsoonally averaged rms sea-level anomalies indicate a high degree of intraseasonal variation due to the generation of squirts, jets and eddies all along the coast, the variability of which increases in both intensity and areal extent during the Southwest Monsoon. The SLA data indicate amuch reduced degree of variability over the shelf. The SLA-derived eddy kinetic energy (EKE) fields are consistent with those derived earlier from the ADCP data in both distribution and magnitude. There is a large increase in EKE to the west and southwest and to a lesser extent to the south and a large area of relatively reduced eddy activity over much of the eastern and northern Arabian Sea. The area of reduced eddy activity coincides with the location of the most intense portions of the oxygen minimum zone found in the northern Arabian Sea. The spatial scales of the eddies responsible for the EKE distribution over the study area range between 200 and 500km in the nearshore region, decreasing to 100-200km o!shore. While there is significant energy variability in annual and semi-annual time scales, a substantial portion of the energy is found between 50 and 120 days, and the relative importance of this frequency band increases offshore. Spectra indicate a distinct break in the frequency content of the eddy field at about 15§N, with little energy at less than annual periods south of this latitude.},

keywords = {acoustic, Arabian Sea, Distribution, location, nearshore, oxygen minimum, south, spatial scale},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Mesozooplankton biomass, composition and distribution in the Arabian Sea during the Fall Intermonsoon: implications of oxygen gradients},

author = {Madhupratap,M.,Gopalakrishnan,T.C.,Haridas,P.,Nair,K.K.C.},

year  = {2001},

date = {2001-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {48},

number = {146},

pages = {1345-1368},

abstract = {Mesozooplankton biomass and distribution of calanoid copepods were studied for the upper 500m between 3 and 21§N along an open-ocean transect in the Arabian Sea during the Fall Intermonsoon (September-October 1992, 1993). The region studied has strong gradients in the oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), being acutely deficient in oxygen in the north and with increasing concentrations towards the south. In the upper layers, mesozooplankton biomass was higher in the northern latitudes, above the thermocline, apparently avoiding the OMZ. In the deeper strata, relatively higher biomass was observed in the more oxygenated southern latitudes. Highest mesozooplankton biomass in open waters of the Arabian Sea was observed during the intermonsoon seasons. Calanoid copepods occurred at all depths, and surface-living species did not undertake conspicuous diel migrations, even when they occurred in the deeper waters of the more southern latitudes. A few species belonging to the families Metridinidae and Augaptilidae appeared to be characteristic of the poorly oxygenated mid-depths of the more northern latitudes. Seasonal variations in the composition of the copepod community were negligible. The evolution of the OMZ in the Arabian Sea and its implications are discussed.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, depth, diel, Distribution, migration, oxygen minimum, seasonal variation, south, thermocline},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Arabian Sea phytoplankton during Southwest and Northeast Monsoons 1995: composition, size structure and biomass from individual cell properties measured by flow cytometry},

author = {Shalapyonok,A.,Olson,R.J.,Shalapyonok,L.S.},

year  = {2001},

date = {2001-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {48 },

number = {221},

pages = {1231-1261},

abstract = {As part of the US JGOFS Arabian Sea Process Study, we determined the abundance, size distributions and carbon biomass of autotrophic phytoplankton in the Arabian Sea during summer Southwest and fall Northeast Monsoon seasons of 1995 (R/V Thomas G. Thompson cruises TN 049 and TN 053). Flowcytometry of 60-ml samples was used to enumerate and determine scattering and fluorescence properties of Prochlorococcus sp., Synechococcus sp., and eukaryotic phytoplankton with cell equivalent spherical diameter up to 40 æm. Cellular forward light scattering was calibrated against Coulter size using 22 phytoplankton cultures spanning the size range 0.8-40 æm, grown exponentially in natural sunlight. The phytoplankton community structure was strongly linked to water-mass characteristics, and was affected by both intense monsoon-related environmental forcing and widespread and dynamic mesoscale structures; the magnitude of spatial variability was similar to that between seasons for all three phytoplankton groups. Prochlorococcus was numerically dominant in the more oligotrophic, stratified areas with surface nitrate concentrations below 0.1 æM and surface temperatures above 27§C. Its abundance was significantly greater during the NE Monsoon and was inversely correlated with the abundance of the two other groups. Synechococcus and eukaryotic phytoplankton cell concentrations covaried at most locations, were highest in areas of intense, monsoon-related mixing, and changed less between seasons than Prochlorococcus. The bulk of biomass of all three groups was located within the mixed layer. Only eukaryotes formed notable subsurface maxima at several offshore locations where Prochlorococcus dominated the mixed layer. Dramatically elevated eukaryotic phytoplankton concentrations in the nutrient-rich upwelling areas were due to the blooming of smaller (<3 æm) cells. Surprisingly, stratified, offshore, nutrient-depleted areas had concentrations of 10-40 æm phytoplankton cells similar to or even higher than upwelling areas. Thus, the mean eukaryotic cell size and the relative contribution of large nanoeukaryotes to the phytoplankton biomass were highest in offshore waters. Eukaryotes accounted for most of the phytoplankton carbon biomass - from about 50 to 80% on average during both seasons. Both Prochlorococcus and large (10 æm) nanoeukaryotes reached their greatest biomass contributions - up to 40% each - in the offshore oligotrophic locations. For the SW and NE Monsoon cruises, flow cytometrically-measured phytoplankton was estimated at 1.1 and 2.2 gCm-2 on average and comprised 33 and 38% of POC, respectively. Diel variability in cellular carbon content accounted for 52% of the observed variability in cellular carbon content for Prochlorococcus, 26% for Synechococcus, and 14% for eukaryotic phytoplankton cells at the surface.},

keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, diel, Distribution, location, surface temperature, temperature, Upwelling},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Observations upon the Al-Batinah artisanal fishery, the Sultanate of Oman},

author = {Al-Oufi,H.,McLean,E,Palfreman,A.},

year  = {2000},

date = {2000-01-01},

journal = {Marine Policy},

volume = {24},

number = {284},

pages = {423-429},

abstract = {The Al Batinah coast is home to around 35% of the Sultanate of Oman's fisherfolk, who account for 28% of national landings by traditional means.  Over the last 10 years the region has experienced a general decline in its fishery with a consequence of socio-economic disturbance and increased fishing pressure.  the present study was undertaken to gain baseline socio-economic information upon the region and to examine the industry's structure and co-management  strategies.  Fisherfolk (mean age 44.4) were from large families (avg. 12.4), educationally challenged (1.1 ñ 2.58 yr formal education), and had limited opportunity for alternative employment.  Mean crew size of fishing vessels was 1.86, and two different systems were employed for calculating crew earnings.  Average income per person was approx. US$ 5000 per annum, although there was significant disparity in income distribution between villages.  Traditionally, fisherfolk have employed the Senat al Bahar ("code of the sea"), in efforts to distribute and manage coastal fisheries.  However, change in fishery management, away from local, to more centralized, has undermined the effectiveness of this system.  This has resulted in alterations of fisherfolk behaviour, with some employing illegal mesh sizes, poaching and fishing in prohibited areas.},

keywords = {behaviour, Distribution, education, Fisheries, fishing gear, management, Oman},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Oman's humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) },

author = {Baldwin,R.M.},

year  = {2000},

date = {2000-01-01},

journal = {The Journal of Oman Studies},

volume = {11 },

number = {316},

pages = {11-18},

abstract = {Data are presented on the general distribution and abundance of humpback whales off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman, with particular reference to observations made during an offshore seismic survey in the Arabian Sea in November 1997. Additional information is presented on seasonal occurrence, ecology and behaviour, external appearance, conservation, mortality, incidental capture, population status and identity of Oman's humpback whales. The data generally support the notion of year-round residency of humpback whales off the coast of Oman, but indicate the need for further research to establish whether the low frequency of positive records during summer months is a true reflection of seasonal distribution. Other research on humpback whales in the region is recommended.},

keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, behaviour, conservation, Distribution, ecology, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, megaptera novaeangliae, mortality, occurrence, Oman, population, population identity, status, survey, whale, whales},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Seasonal variability of the colored dissolved organic matter during the 1994-95 NE and SW Monsoons in the Arabian Sea},

author = {Del Castillo,C.E.,Coble,P.G.},

year  = {2000},

date = {2000-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {47 },

number = {86},

pages = {1563-1579},

abstract = {We performed absorption spectroscopy and fluorescence analyses on water samples collected in the Arabian Sea during the NE and SW Monsoons of 1994-1995. The strong differences in wind regimes between the Monsoons were reflected in the distribution of colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM). Concentrations of fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM) were highest during the SW Monsoon within 100 km of the coast of Oman. In contrast, highest values during the NE Monsoon were found in offshore regions of the Arabian Sea. During the SW Monsoon, surface CDOM and FDOM correlated inversely with temperature, suggesting that upwelled water was the source of the colored and fluorescent material. Vertical profiles showed an inverse relationship between CDOM absorption and temperature, and a decrease in spectral slope with decrease in temperature, suggesting that deeper waters contain higher molecular weight CDOM than shallow waters. Profiles also showed the presence of a highly colored and fluorescent water mass centered at 250 m corresponding to Persian Gulf Water Mass. This water may be a source of colored organic material to overlying water masses.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Distribution, Oman, temperature},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {The fate of upwelled waters in the Great Whirl, August 1995},

author = {Hitchcock,G.L.,Key,E.L.,Masters,J.},

year  = {2000},

date = {2000-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {47},

number = {111},

pages = {1605-1621},

abstract = {The Great Whirl is a large, anticyclonic gyre that develops of the northern Somali coast during the Southwest Monsoon. In August 1995 the NOAA Ship Malcolm Baldrige surveyed the seaward edge of the upwelling zone associated with this gyre. The fate of recently upwelled water was followed by mapping surface property distributions along a cool surface feature that extended seaward along the northern edge of the Great Whirl. Surface properties (T, S, and chlorophyll a), surface velocity (ADCP), and XBT and CTD casts were interpreted in relation to the trajectories of three instrumented surface drifters deployed in the feature. Cool surface waters correspond in space to the shoaling of the upper thermocline and offshore advection from the coast. Surface chlorophyll a concentrations decreased from 2 to 3 æg l-1 in the Upwelling zone to 0.5-1.5 æg l-1 in the surface feature and contiguous waters. Maximum surface velocities in the Great Whirl were 250 cm s-1 with velocities >100 cm s-1 along the northern perimeter of the gyre. Decorrelation time-scales for u and v velocity components, and chlorophyll a fluorescence, from the drifters were on the order of 4 to 7 days. These times are comparable to those over which the drifters were ejected from the Great Whirl into the Socotra Gyre. Decorrelation times for sea-surface temperature were somewhat longer (10 days). All three platforms passed between the Somali coast and Socotra within a week of their deployment and then traveled east into the northern Arabian Sea.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, chlorophyll, Distribution, temperature, thermocline, Upwelling},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Processes controlling the distribution and cycling of manganese in the oxygen minimum zone of the Arabian Sea},

author = {Lewis,B.L.,Luther III,G.W.},

year  = {2000},

date = {2000-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {47},

number = {400},

pages = {1541-1561},

abstract = {Vertical and horizontal distributions of dissolved and particulate manganese were investigated in the Arabian Sea (Northwestern Indian Ocean) during the 1995 Spring Intermonsoon period (March-April; US JGOFS Process Cruise 2; TN045). The region is characterized by an intense, basin-wide oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) that strongly influences the manganese distribution. In the OMZ, two distinct dissolved Mn (d-Mn) maxima were observed, at depths of 200-300 m and 600 m, respectively. The latter peak displayed concentration maxima of approximately 6 nanomolar and was largely confined to stations north of 19§N latitude (Stations N2-N7). This mid-depth maximum was associated with the low oxygen core of the OMZ ([O2] < ~ 2 æM), and appears to be maintained by a southward horizontal advective -diffusive flux of dissolved manganese from highly reducing Pakistan margin sediments, rather than input from the Oman Margin as previously suggested by Saager et al. (1989, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, 53, 2259-2267). This signal was largely absent at stations along the southern transect, likely due to oxidative scavenging of d-Mn to the suspended particulate phase. Mid-depth particulate Mn maxima at some southern stations (Stations S4-S11) appear to be remnants of this feature. The upper d-Mn maximum (200-300 m depth) was more widely distributed than the 600 m peak, with d-Mn concentrations of ~ 3 to as high as 8 nm at most stations east of about 62§E longitude. The signal was everywhere correlated with the secondary nitrite maximum, at stations within the main denitrification zone delineated by Naqvi (1991). Nepheloid layers, presumably bacterial, also were associated with this depth interval. Particulate Mn profiles displayed corresponding concentration minima and low Mn/Al and reactive/refractory Mn ratios for this same depth interval, suggesting reductive dissolution of Mn-oxyhydroxides. These observations imply that in situ microbially mediated processes may be the predominant source of d-Mn in the upper OMZ, while horizontal advection is more important deeper in the water column.  },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, depth, Distribution, Indian Ocean, Oman, oxygen minimum, Pakistan},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Distribution, abundance, and feeding ecology of decapods in the Arabian Sea, with implications for vertical flux},

author = {Mincks,S.L.,Bollens,S.M.,Madin,L.P.,Horgan,E.,Butler,M.,Kremer,P.M.,Craddock,J.E.},

year  = {2000},

date = {2000-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {47},

number = {158},

pages = {1475-1516},

abstract = {Macrozooplankton and micronekton samples were collected on two cruises in the Arabian Sea conducted during the Spring Intermonsoon period (May) and the SW Monsoon period (August) of 1995. Discrete depth samples were collected down to depths of 1000-1500 m. Quantitative gut content analyses were performed on four species of decapod shrimps, Gennadas sordidus, Sergia filictum, Sergia creber, and Eupasiphae gilesii, as well as on the pelagic crab Charybdis smithii. Of the shrimps, only S. filictum and S. creber increased significantly in abundance between the Spring Intermonsoon and SW Monsoon seasons. These four species were found at all depths sampled, and most did not appear to be strong vertical migrators. G. sordidus and S. filictum did appear to spread upward at night, especially during the SW Monsoon, but this movement did not include the entire population. S. creber showed signs of diel vertical migration only in some areas. All four shrimp species except, to some degree, S. creber lived almost exclusively within the oxygen minimum zone(150-1000 m), and are likely to have respiratory adaptations that allow them to persist under such conditions. Feeding occurred at all depths throughout these species' ranges, but only modest feeding occurred in the surface layer (0-150 m). G. sordidus appeared to feed continuously throughout the day and night. Estimated contribution of fecal material to vertical flux ranged from < 0.01-2.1% of particulate flux at 1000 m for the shrimps and 1.8-3.0% for C. smithii. (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved. .},

keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, depth, Distribution, ecology, feeding ecology, migration, oxygen minimum, population, zooplankton},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Photosynthesis-irradiance parameters and community structure associated with coastal filaments and adjacent waters in the northern Arabian Sea},

author = {Toon,R.K.,Lohrenz,S.E.,Rathbun,C.E.,Wood,A.M.,Arnone,R.A.,Jones,B.H.,Kindle,J.C.,Weidemann,A.D.},

year  = {2000},

date = {2000-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {47},

number = {244},

pages = {1249-1277},

abstract = {Comparisons were made among size-fractionated photosynthesis-irradiance (P-E) parameters, chlorophyll a size distributions, and accessory pigment composition of natural phytoplankton assemblages in filaments, coastal upwelling waters, and an oligotrophic region of the northern Arabian Sea during the Fall Intermonsoon in 1995. Differences between P-E parameters, PBmax and àB, were observed between filaments and adjacent waters and were associated with differences in phytoplankton community structure. In a southern filament and coastal upwelled waters, the majority of the estimated biomass (chlorophyll a) was present in the larger (2-20 and 20-200 æm) size fractions; dominant accessory pigments were 19'-butanoyloxyfucoxanthin and peridinin. In higher salinity waters, high percentages of chlorophyll a and lutein/zeaxanthin were observed in the smallest size-fraction (<2 æm). Whole water values of PBmax ranged from 1.77 to 2.31 (g C g chl a-1 h-1) when the majority of the biomass was in the largest fractions. Higher values (more than 4.48 g C g chl a-1 h-1) were determined in whole water samples for communities comprised primarily of small cells. A size dependence was also observed in the value of àB, 0.017 or greater (g C g chl a-1 h-1)/(æmol quanta m-2 s-1) for whole water samples at stations dominated by small cells and 0.013 when derived from stations dominated by large cells. The observed pattern of larger phytoplankton associated with upwelling and filament waters was consistent with previous investigations and was, for the most part, comparable to findings in the California Current system. Our results show that differences in taxonomic composition and photosynthetic characteristics were indeed present between filament waters and other distinct regions; these results suggest that taxonomic variations may be associated with size-related variations in P-E parameters. Our findings provide a unique data set describing filament biology in the northern Arabian Sea during the Fall Intermonsoon thus adding important details in efforts to model biogeochemical processes in this region. },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, biology, chlorophyll, Distribution, salinity, Upwelling},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Why do baleen whales migrate?},

author = {Corkeron,P.J.,Connor,R.C.},

year  = {1999},

date = {1999-01-01},

journal = {Marine Mammal Science},

volume = {15},

number = {76},

pages = {1228-1245},

abstract = {The annual migrations of baleen whales are a conspicuous, but unexplained feature of their behavioural repertoire.  Some hypotheses offered to explain whale migration focus on direct benefits to the calf (thermoregulation, calm water) and some do not (resource tracking, and the "evolutionary holdover" hypothesis).  Here we suggest that a major selective advantage to migrating pregnant female baleen whales is a reduced risk of killer whale predation on their newborn calves in low-latitude waters.  Killer whale abundance in high latitudes is substantially greater than that in lower latitudes, and most killer whales do not appear to migrate with baleen whales.  We suggest that the distribution of killer whales is determined more by their primary marine mammal prey, pinnipeds, and that following the baleen whale migrations would remove them from their pinnipeds prey. There are problems with all current hypotheses, most of which stem from a lack of directed research.  We explore variation in migratory habits between species, populations, and individuals that may provide a "natural laboratory" for discriminating among the  competing hypotheses.  The authors specifically recommend more detailed study of non-migrating populations, such as the Arabian Sea population of humpback whales.},

keywords = {abundance, Distribution, killer whale, killer whales, migration, mysticetes, Orca, predation},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {The role of seasonal and diel changes in mixed-layer depth on carbon and chlorophyll distributions in the Arabian Sea},

author = {Gardner,W.D.,Gundersen,J.S.,Richardson,M.J.,Walsh,I.D.},

year  = {1999},

date = {1999-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {46},

number = {97},

pages = {1833-1858},

abstract = {The e!ects of changes in the mixed-layer depth on the distribution of particulate organic carbon (POC) and chlorophyll a were examined in the Arabian Sea during the Northeast Monsoon (January and December), Spring Intermonsoon (February-March), and Southwest Monsoon (July and August) of 1995. POC distributions were derived from profiles of beam attenuation calibrated with POC, and chlorophyll a distributions were derived from calibrated fluorescence profiles. Depth of the seasonal mixed layer (Då of 0.125 kg m-3  from surface density) increased with distance offshore during both monsoons, especially in the southern Arabian Sea where the range was 10-80 m nearshore to 80-120 m offshore. The deepest seasonal mixed layers occurred during the Northeast Monsoon. During the Spring Intermonsoon the seasonal mixed layer was only 10-40 m. Variations in the depth of the diel mixed layer (Då of 0.03 kg m-3  from surface density) were up to 90 m during the Northeast Monsoon, but were seldom over 20 m during the Southwest Monsoon. During the Spring Intermonsoon when mixed layers and diel variations in the mixed layer were small, nutrients became depleted, producing oligotrophic conditions plus a strong deep chlorophyll a maximum (>2 mg chl m-3) below the mixed layer. The chlorophyll a maximum was centered at ~ 50 m, which is significantly beneath the effective depth of satellite color sensing. When mixing is active throughout the diel cycle, particulate organic carbon (POC) and chlorophyll distributions are quite uniform within the mixed layer. Nighttime increases in mixed layer depths can mix POC and chlorophyll a produced during the day downward and can entrain new nutrients to enhance primary production. Although mixing from diel variations may be effective in redistributing components within the mixed layer and may be an important mechanism for removing particles from the mixed layer, regional upwelling of nutrients and diatom blooms appear to dominate over diel mixed layer dynamics in the production and export of carbon in the Arabian Sea.},

keywords = {Arabian Sea, chlorophyll, density, depth, diel, Distribution, nearshore, Oceanic, Upwelling},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Seasonal variations in the distribution of Fe and Al in the surface waters of the Arabian Sea},

author = {Measures,C.I.,Vink,S.},

year  = {1999},

date = {1999-01-01},

journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},

volume = {46 },

number = {153},

pages = {1597-1622},

abstract = {Concentrations of dissolved Al and Fe in the surface mixed layer were measured during five cruises of the 1995 US JGOFS Arabian Sea Process Study, Concentrations of both Al and Fe were relatively uniform between January and April, the NE Monsoon and the Spring Intermonsoon period, ranging from 2 to 11 nM Al (mean 5.3 nM) and 0.5 to 2.4 nM Fe (mean 1.0 nM). In July/August, after the onset of the SW Monsoon, surface water Al and Fe concentrations increased significantly (Al range 4.5-20.1 nM; mean = 10 nM, Fe range 0.57-2.4 nM; mean = 1.3 nM), particularly in the NE part of the Arabian Sea, as the result of the input and partial dissolution of eolian dust. Using the enrichment of Al in the surface waters, we estimate this is the equivalent to the deposition of 2.2-7.4 g m-2 dust, which is comparable to values previously estimated for this region. Approximately one month later (August/September), surface water concentrations of both Al and Fe were found to have decreased significantly (mean Al 7.4 nM, mean Fe 0.90 nM) particularly in the same NE region, as the result of export of particulate material from the euphotic zone. Fe supply to the surface waters is also affected by upwelling of sub-surface waters in the coastal region of the Arabian Sea during the SW Monsoon. Despite the proximity of high concentrations of Fe in the shallow sub-oxic layer, freshly upwelled water is not drawn from this layer and the NO3/Fe ratio in the initially upwelled water is below the value at which Fe limitation is through to occur. Continued deposition of eolian Fe into the upwelled water as it advects offshore provides the Fe required to raise this ratio above the Fe limitation value.  },

keywords = {Arabian Sea, Distribution, seasonal variation, Upwelling},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}