Undergraduate Research Experience in Ocean and Marine Science
Abstract
Report contains highlights from the summer 2005 Undergraduate Research Experience in Ocean and Marine Science Program. Along the Mid-Atlantic coast of the United States, there are different subpopulations, or stocks of bottlenose dolphins. The bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus, has both resident and migratory stocks. The focus of this study Is the northern migratory population. This group of animals moves north and south along the coast In response to seasonal changes. The need for study arises from this mobile nature. Determination of the environmental cues that may be used to predict the presence or absence of these animals will aid in efforts to avoid disturbance to this protected species. This stock was also greatly affected during the 1987-1988 epizootic event that killed an estimated 50% of the migratory stock. This disease event was likely worsened by exposure to environmental toxins. The main areas of the field work. the lower James and Elizabeth Rivers of Virginia, are of interest due to their high toxin loads and frequent usage by bottlenose dolphins. The Elizabeth River is largely developed along Its length. It also has a very high level of traffic: commercial, military and recreational. Since this species represents the highest level on Its food chain, our hypothesis is that the movement north represents can be correlated with the movements of their prey species. These prey species are known to be themselves migratory with temperature. As a surrogate for the In situ detection of the prey species, we feel that sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a levels can be used.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 02, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA441471
Entities
People
- Linda B. Hayden
Organizations
- Elizabeth City State College