Distribution, Abundance and Population Structuring of Beaked Whales in the Great Bahama Canyon, Northern Bahamas
Abstract
The long-term goal of this project is to collect baseline data to fill critical data gaps on the population ecology of beaked whales in the northern Bahamas, specifically relating to distribution, habitat use, abundance and population structuring. The objectives of the three-year study are: 1) To use visual survey techniques to document beaked whale distribution and habitat use, and to estimate abundance in the Great Bahama Canyon (Figure 1). 2) To use photo-identification techniques to extend an existing photographic catalogue of individual beaked whales, which will be queried to examine the distribution, movements and social affiliations of identified individuals, and to assess abundance using mark-recapture techniques. 3) To use remote biopsy techniques to collect skin and blubber samples to contribute to the study of beaked whale diet (through fatty acid, stable isotope and contaminant analyses) and stock structure (using molecular genetic approaches). 4) To develop and implement methods of detecting beaked whales using a towed acoustic array, compare visual and acoustic detection rates, and compare detection efficiency of the towed array and the bottom mounted hydrophones at the Atlantic Underwater Test and Evaluation Center. 5) To collect baseline data on the distribution and relative abundance of other cetacean species in this area. 6) To collect photo-identification and biopsy data from other species, notably sperm whales, killer whales and oceanic bottlenose dolphins, as part of an effort to assess abundance, stock structure and diet. Sightings of sea turtles and interesting bird species will be recorded as well.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA506721
Entities
People
- Diane Claridge
- John Durban