Developing a bioenergetic model for baleen whales to assess population consequences ofdisturbance
Abstract
The need for quantifying and managing cumulative impacts of non-lethal human activities (e.g. shipping, naval activities, fisheries, renewable energy, oil and gas exploration, and tourism) on marine mammals is becoming increasingly important as their exposure to anthropogenic activities are rapidly intensifying. Human disturbance has been shown to have population level consequences in some targeted populations, however the underlying mechanism of how these effects arise is unknown. In order to predict population consequences of disturbance (PCoD) on marine mammals, we need to understand how behavioral changes can influence individual vital rates (e.g. reproduction and survival), and ultimately population dynamics. By developing a mechanistic model, using cutting edge modeling and simulation tools in ecology, and informing the links of the model with the best available empirical data, we aim to assess PCoD on baleen whales by accomplishing the following objectives: link behavior to bioenergetics; link bioenergetics to body condition; link body condition to individual survival and reproduction; and link vital rates to population dynamics.The outcome from this project will be a predictive model which can be used to assess PCoD in baleen whales under different management scenarios (different levels of disturbance). This will make it possible to assess if a certain anthropogenic stressor(s) (e.g. shipping, oil and gas industries, renewable energy industries) is/are having any effect on the viability of a given baleen whale population.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 26, 2018
- Source ID
- N000141713018
Entities
People
- Keith Von Der Heydt
Organizations
- Murdoch University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy