Moazzam Khan ,Rab Nawaz, Babar Khan, Sudheer Ahmed.
In: Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, vol. SC/68B/CMP/08, no. 170, pp. 11, 2020, ISBN: SC/67A/CMP/05.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan
@article{,
title = {Whale Distribution in the Northern Arabian Sea along Coast of Pakistan in 2019 based on the information obtained through Fisheries Crew-Based Observer Programme},
author = {Moazzam Khan ,Rab Nawaz, Babar Khan, Sudheer Ahmed. },
url = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/341776439_Whale_Distribution_in_the_Northern_Arabian_Sea_along_Coast_of_Pakistan_in_2019_based_on_the_information_obtained_through_Fisheries_Crew-Based_Observer_Programme},
isbn = { SC/67A/CMP/05},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-01-01},
urldate = {2020-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/68B/CMP/08},
number = {170},
pages = {11},
institution = {Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
abstract = {In 2012 WWF-Pakistan initiated an observer programme to monitor tuna gillnet operations in the coastal and offshore waters of Pakistan. Among other things, these observers were assigned to report observations of whales encountered during fishing operations. These vessels (with onboard observers) provided a platform of opportunity for recording the spatial and temporal distribution of whales in the Northern Arabian Sea. During 2019 a total of 7 sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, 1 sighting each of blue whales and Bryde’s whales, 6 sightings of sperm whales,8 sightings of baleen whales (that could not be identified to species level due to lack of adequate photographic or video evidence) and 3 records of entanglement and mortality of Cuvier’s beaked whales..
Fewer whales were recorded through the programme in 2019 than 2018 and 2017 when a total of 35 and 95 sightings of whale were recorded respectively. This decrease in sightings is attributed to many factors, including early closure of the fishing season in early April 2019 because of low catches and unreliable prices of tuna in the market. As such the fishery was closed for four months from mid-April to mid-August instead of the usual two months of June and July.
Extremely high sea surface temperatures during September to October 2019 (possibly an oceanic heat wave) were believed to be the cause of reduced tuna catches. Therefore, only a few tuna boats remained operational during this period. An unprecedented jellyfish bloom of Crambionella orsini from September 2019 onward forced fishermen to stop fishing operations during this period. Furthermore, the observer programme was completed on September, 2019, after which only 45 out of 75 observers voluntarily continued to provide information about sightings. The paper also reports on two baleen whale strandings - a Bryde’s whale (Balaenoptera brydei) stranded on the rocky shore at Gunz, western coast of Pakistan and a blue whale in Pushukan, Gwadar (West Bay).},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
In 2012 WWF-Pakistan initiated an observer programme to monitor tuna gillnet operations in the coastal and offshore waters of Pakistan. Among other things, these observers were assigned to report observations of whales encountered during fishing operations. These vessels (with onboard observers) provided a platform of opportunity for recording the spatial and temporal distribution of whales in the Northern Arabian Sea. During 2019 a total of 7 sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, 1 sighting each of blue whales and Bryde’s whales, 6 sightings of sperm whales,8 sightings of baleen whales (that could not be identified to species level due to lack of adequate photographic or video evidence) and 3 records of entanglement and mortality of Cuvier’s beaked whales..
Fewer whales were recorded through the programme in 2019 than 2018 and 2017 when a total of 35 and 95 sightings of whale were recorded respectively. This decrease in sightings is attributed to many factors, including early closure of the fishing season in early April 2019 because of low catches and unreliable prices of tuna in the market. As such the fishery was closed for four months from mid-April to mid-August instead of the usual two months of June and July.
Extremely high sea surface temperatures during September to October 2019 (possibly an oceanic heat wave) were believed to be the cause of reduced tuna catches. Therefore, only a few tuna boats remained operational during this period. An unprecedented jellyfish bloom of Crambionella orsini from September 2019 onward forced fishermen to stop fishing operations during this period. Furthermore, the observer programme was completed on September, 2019, after which only 45 out of 75 observers voluntarily continued to provide information about sightings. The paper also reports on two baleen whale strandings - a Bryde’s whale (Balaenoptera brydei) stranded on the rocky shore at Gunz, western coast of Pakistan and a blue whale in Pushukan, Gwadar (West Bay).
Fewer whales were recorded through the programme in 2019 than 2018 and 2017 when a total of 35 and 95 sightings of whale were recorded respectively. This decrease in sightings is attributed to many factors, including early closure of the fishing season in early April 2019 because of low catches and unreliable prices of tuna in the market. As such the fishery was closed for four months from mid-April to mid-August instead of the usual two months of June and July.
Extremely high sea surface temperatures during September to October 2019 (possibly an oceanic heat wave) were believed to be the cause of reduced tuna catches. Therefore, only a few tuna boats remained operational during this period. An unprecedented jellyfish bloom of Crambionella orsini from September 2019 onward forced fishermen to stop fishing operations during this period. Furthermore, the observer programme was completed on September, 2019, after which only 45 out of 75 observers voluntarily continued to provide information about sightings. The paper also reports on two baleen whale strandings - a Bryde’s whale (Balaenoptera brydei) stranded on the rocky shore at Gunz, western coast of Pakistan and a blue whale in Pushukan, Gwadar (West Bay).
IWC
Report of the IWC Workshop on Bycatch Mitigation Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea Technical Report
International Whaling Commission no. 124, 2019, ISSN: BMI workshop report 05-19.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Bycatch, Entanglement, Indian Ocean, International Whaling Commission, IOTC, mitigation, Pinger
@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}
}
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.
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.
Moazzam, Mohammed,Nawaz, Rab,Khan, B.,Ahmed, S.
no. 169, 2019.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan
@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}
}
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.
Sutaria, D.
A Report On Baleen Whale Records And Recent Developments In Marine Mammal Research And Conservation Policy - Update From India Technical Report
no. 240, 2019, ISSN: SC/67A/CMP/03_Rev.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: 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
@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}
}
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.
Sutaria, D.
Baleen whale reports from the eastern Arabian Sea based on interview surveys and stranding reports - update from India Technical Report
no. 483, 2018, ISSN: SC/67B/CMP/15.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: 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
@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}
}
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.
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.
Dakteh, S.M.H.,Ranjbar, S.,Moazeni, M.,Mohsenian, Nazanin,Delshab, H.,Moshiri, H.,Van Waerebeek, K
On the presence of humpback whales in the Persian Gulf: rare or rarely documented? Technical Report
no. 78, 2017, ISBN: SC/67A/CMP/14.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Persian Gulf, ship strike, stranding
@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}
}
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.
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.
Moazzam, Mohammed,Nawaz, Rab
Arabian Humpback and Baleen Whale sightings along the Pakistan Coast: Information Generated Through WWF Pakistan’s Fishing Crew Observer Programme Technical Report
no. 168, 2017, ISBN: SC/67A/CMP/05.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan
@techreport{,
title = {Arabian Humpback and Baleen Whale sightings along the Pakistan Coast: Information Generated Through WWF Pakistan’s Fishing Crew Observer Programme},
author = {Moazzam, Mohammed,Nawaz, Rab},
issn = { SC/67A/CMP/05},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {168},
pages = {16},
abstract = {Historical records and Soviet whaling data indicate the presence of baleen whales off the coast of
Pakistan up to 1965, but since then only a handful of strandings and opportunistic sightings
confirm their ongoing presence in the region. Between 2012 and 2016, observations of freeswimming
and entangled whales were recorded by fishing vessel crew members trained under a
bycatch observer scheme coordinated by WWF Pakistan. The scheme, which started with two
observers in 2012, now involves 75 participating vessels. Reported baleen whale observations
increased from none in 2012, to 16 in 2015. In 2016, 47 sightings of baleen whales were
recorded, including 12 confirmed sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, three sightings of
Bryde’s and 32 sightings of baleen whales that could not be identified to species level due to lack
of adequate photographic or video evidence. Sightings reported from 2012 through 2016 are
summarized and plotted, providing insight into the current distribution of Arabian Sea humpback
whales and other baleen whale species in the region. The authors recommend the continuation of
the programme, and suggest that it could serve as a useful model for crew-based reporting
schemes in a region where dedicated cetacean surveys are difficult to conduct, but fisheries are
widespread and active.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera edeni, Bryde's whale, Bycatch, Entanglement, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Observer programmes, Pakistan},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Historical records and Soviet whaling data indicate the presence of baleen whales off the coast of
Pakistan up to 1965, but since then only a handful of strandings and opportunistic sightings
confirm their ongoing presence in the region. Between 2012 and 2016, observations of freeswimming
and entangled whales were recorded by fishing vessel crew members trained under a
bycatch observer scheme coordinated by WWF Pakistan. The scheme, which started with two
observers in 2012, now involves 75 participating vessels. Reported baleen whale observations
increased from none in 2012, to 16 in 2015. In 2016, 47 sightings of baleen whales were
recorded, including 12 confirmed sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, three sightings of
Bryde’s and 32 sightings of baleen whales that could not be identified to species level due to lack
of adequate photographic or video evidence. Sightings reported from 2012 through 2016 are
summarized and plotted, providing insight into the current distribution of Arabian Sea humpback
whales and other baleen whale species in the region. The authors recommend the continuation of
the programme, and suggest that it could serve as a useful model for crew-based reporting
schemes in a region where dedicated cetacean surveys are difficult to conduct, but fisheries are
widespread and active.
Pakistan up to 1965, but since then only a handful of strandings and opportunistic sightings
confirm their ongoing presence in the region. Between 2012 and 2016, observations of freeswimming
and entangled whales were recorded by fishing vessel crew members trained under a
bycatch observer scheme coordinated by WWF Pakistan. The scheme, which started with two
observers in 2012, now involves 75 participating vessels. Reported baleen whale observations
increased from none in 2012, to 16 in 2015. In 2016, 47 sightings of baleen whales were
recorded, including 12 confirmed sightings of Arabian Sea humpback whales, three sightings of
Bryde’s and 32 sightings of baleen whales that could not be identified to species level due to lack
of adequate photographic or video evidence. Sightings reported from 2012 through 2016 are
summarized and plotted, providing insight into the current distribution of Arabian Sea humpback
whales and other baleen whale species in the region. The authors recommend the continuation of
the programme, and suggest that it could serve as a useful model for crew-based reporting
schemes in a region where dedicated cetacean surveys are difficult to conduct, but fisheries are
widespread and active.
Sutaria, D.,Sule, M.,Jog, K.,Bopardikar, I.,Jamalabad, A.,Panicker, D.
Baleen Whale Records from India Technical Report
no. 241, 2017, ISBN: SC/67A/CMP/03_Rev.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: 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
@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}
}
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.
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.
Thomas, Peter O.,Reeves, Randall R.,Brownell, Robert L.
Status of the world's baleen whales Journal Article
In: Marine Mammal Science, no. 242, 2015, ISBN: 1748-7692.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: anthropogenic noise, baleen whales, blue whales, Bycatch, cetaceans, Climate change, Endangered species, Entanglement, IUCN, ocean acidification, Red List, ship strike, status, whaling
@article{,
title = {Status of the world's baleen whales},
author = {Thomas, Peter O.,Reeves, Randall R.,Brownell, Robert L.},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.12281},
issn = {1748-7692},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Marine Mammal Science},
number = {242},
abstract = {No global synthesis of the status of baleen whales has been published since the 2008 IUCN Red List assessments. Many populations remain at low numbers from historical commercial whaling, which had ceased for all but a few by 1989. Fishing gear entanglement and ship strikes are the most severe current threats. The acute and long-term effects of anthropogenic noise and the cumulative effects of multiple stressors are of concern but poorly understood. The looming consequences of climate change and ocean acidification remain difficult to characterize. North Atlantic and North Pacific right whales are among the species listed as Endangered. Southern right, bowhead, and gray whales have been assessed as Least Concern but some subpopulations of these species - western North Pacific gray whales, Chile-Peru right whales, and Svalbard/Barents Sea and Sea of Okhotsk bowhead whales - remain at low levels and are either Endangered or Critically Endangered. Eastern North Pacific blue whales have reportedly recovered, but Antarctic blue whales remain at about 1% of pre-exploitation levels. Small isolated subspecies or subpopulations, such as northern Indian Ocean blue whales, Arabian Sea humpback whales, and Mediterranean Sea fin whales are threatened while most subpopulations of sei, Bryde's, and Omura's whales are inadequately monitored and difficult to assess.},
keywords = {anthropogenic noise, baleen whales, blue whales, Bycatch, cetaceans, Climate change, Endangered species, Entanglement, IUCN, ocean acidification, Red List, ship strike, status, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
No global synthesis of the status of baleen whales has been published since the 2008 IUCN Red List assessments. Many populations remain at low numbers from historical commercial whaling, which had ceased for all but a few by 1989. Fishing gear entanglement and ship strikes are the most severe current threats. The acute and long-term effects of anthropogenic noise and the cumulative effects of multiple stressors are of concern but poorly understood. The looming consequences of climate change and ocean acidification remain difficult to characterize. North Atlantic and North Pacific right whales are among the species listed as Endangered. Southern right, bowhead, and gray whales have been assessed as Least Concern but some subpopulations of these species - western North Pacific gray whales, Chile-Peru right whales, and Svalbard/Barents Sea and Sea of Okhotsk bowhead whales - remain at low levels and are either Endangered or Critically Endangered. Eastern North Pacific blue whales have reportedly recovered, but Antarctic blue whales remain at about 1% of pre-exploitation levels. Small isolated subspecies or subpopulations, such as northern Indian Ocean blue whales, Arabian Sea humpback whales, and Mediterranean Sea fin whales are threatened while most subpopulations of sei, Bryde's, and Omura's whales are inadequately monitored and difficult to assess.
Baldwin, Robert.,Barwani, M.
A Leviathan Rescue Journal Article
In: Arabian Wildlife, vol. 2, no. 304, pp. 2, 2001.
BibTeX | Tags: Entanglement, Humpback Whale, Oman, Popular Article
@article{,
title = {A Leviathan Rescue},
author = {Baldwin, Robert.,Barwani, M.},
year = {2001},
date = {2001-01-01},
journal = {Arabian Wildlife},
volume = {2},
number = {304},
pages = {2},
keywords = {Entanglement, Humpback Whale, Oman, Popular Article},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Phillip Clapham, Sharon Young, Robert L. Brownell Jr
Baleen whales: conservation issues and the status of the most endangered populations Journal Article
In: Mammal Review, vol. 29 , no. 69, pp. 35-60, 1999.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, Arctic, Balaena mysticetus, baleen whale, baleen whales, Blue whale, bowhead whale, bowhead whales, conservation, contaminants, disease, endangered, Entanglement, Eubalaena glacialis, fishing gear, gray whales, habitat degradation, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, mortality, Okhotsk Sea, population, populations, right whale, right whales, ship-strike, southern right whales, status, stocks, whale, whales, whaling
@article{,
title = {Baleen whales: conservation issues and the status of the most endangered populations },
author = {Phillip Clapham, Sharon Young, Robert L. Brownell Jr},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2907.1999.00035.x},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
urldate = {1999-01-01},
journal = {Mammal Review},
volume = {29 },
number = {69},
pages = {35-60},
abstract = {Most species of baleen whales were subject to intensive overexploitation by commercial whaling in this and previous centuries, and many populations were reduced to small fractions of their original sizes. Here, we review the status of baleen whale stocks, with an emphasis on those that are known or thought to be critically endangered. Current data suggest that, of the various threats potentially affecting baleen whales, only entanglement in fishing gear and ship strikes may be significant at the population level, and then only in those populations which are already at critically low abundance. The impact of some problems (vessel harassment, and commercial or aboriginal whaling) is at present probably minor. For others (contaminants, habitat degradation, disease), existing data either indicate no immediate cause for concern, or are insufficient to permit an assessment. While the prospect for many baleen whales appears good, there are notable exceptions: populations that are of greatest concern are those suffering from low abundance and associated problems, including (in some cases) anthropogenic mortality. These include: all Northern Right N hales Eubalaena glacialis. Bowhead Whales Balaena mysticetus of the Okhotsk Sea and various eastern Arctic populations. western Gray Whales Eschrichtius robustus, and probably many Blue Whale Balaenoptera musculus populations. We review the status of these populations and. where known, the issues potentially affecting their recovery. Although Humpback Whales Megaptera novaeangliae and Southern Right Whales Eubalaena australis were also heavily exploited by whaling. existing data indicate strong recovery in most studied populations of these species.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, Arctic, Balaena mysticetus, baleen whale, baleen whales, Blue whale, bowhead whale, bowhead whales, conservation, contaminants, disease, endangered, Entanglement, Eubalaena glacialis, fishing gear, gray whales, habitat degradation, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, mortality, Okhotsk Sea, population, populations, right whale, right whales, ship-strike, southern right whales, status, stocks, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Most species of baleen whales were subject to intensive overexploitation by commercial whaling in this and previous centuries, and many populations were reduced to small fractions of their original sizes. Here, we review the status of baleen whale stocks, with an emphasis on those that are known or thought to be critically endangered. Current data suggest that, of the various threats potentially affecting baleen whales, only entanglement in fishing gear and ship strikes may be significant at the population level, and then only in those populations which are already at critically low abundance. The impact of some problems (vessel harassment, and commercial or aboriginal whaling) is at present probably minor. For others (contaminants, habitat degradation, disease), existing data either indicate no immediate cause for concern, or are insufficient to permit an assessment. While the prospect for many baleen whales appears good, there are notable exceptions: populations that are of greatest concern are those suffering from low abundance and associated problems, including (in some cases) anthropogenic mortality. These include: all Northern Right N hales Eubalaena glacialis. Bowhead Whales Balaena mysticetus of the Okhotsk Sea and various eastern Arctic populations. western Gray Whales Eschrichtius robustus, and probably many Blue Whale Balaenoptera musculus populations. We review the status of these populations and. where known, the issues potentially affecting their recovery. Although Humpback Whales Megaptera novaeangliae and Southern Right Whales Eubalaena australis were also heavily exploited by whaling. existing data indicate strong recovery in most studied populations of these species.