Research
Field Techniques
- Conducting boat-based surveys the work will include recording the distribution and abundance of both dolphins and identification and mapping of “hotspot” areas. This information will help in the overall future planning and management for both species.
- Via photo-identification techniques undertake monitoring of individual dolphins. The photo-id technique is the basis for determining population sizes and population dynamics.
- Collect tissue samples via non-lethal methods of free ranging animals. Tissue samples will be used to help clarify genetic relationships and potentially be the basis for toxicological studies and pathogen infections.
- Assess human impacts including the effects of boat traffic and gillnetting and look at ways to reduce threatening processes.
Photo-Identification
Photo-identification of individual dolphins and whales is a standard field technique for studying marine mammals and uses photographs of distinctive marks to identify individuals.
Using a digital SLR camera with 135-400mm lens, individual images based on distinctive markings are catalogued. The number of times an individual is recorded over time is the basis for estimating population parameters, distribution, social structure and movement patterns.
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| Orcaella dolphin's dorsal fin | Sousa dolphin's dorsal fin |
Tissue Biopsy Sampling
A non-lethal biopsy system with no adverse effects has been developed for small dolphins and tested on various species throughout the world. Animals are darted at a range of two to 10m while travelling parallel to the vessel.
Biopsy samples taken this way are sufficient for genetic analysis but can also potentially help identify sex of the dolphin and if there is enough tissue further analysis including pollutants in the blubber.