Antarctic Seals: Research Methods and Techniques

R Laws
Cambridge University Press, 6/1/2009
EAN 9780521111768, ISBN10: 0521111765

Paperback, 416 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 2.3 cm
Language: English

Despite its remote and seemingly rigorous environment, the Antarctic is the world's most important habitat for seals, currently supporting more seals than all other parts of the world combined. As various national Antarctic programmes were established to study these animals, the need to standardize techniques became apparent. This book, arising from work by the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (Group of Specialists on Seals), gives a detailed account of well-tried and, where possible, agreed methodologies, techniques, procedures and rationale for the collection and initial analysis of data on the biology and population ecology of Antarctic seals. This volume will not only help facilitate comparisons between different regions of Antarctica, but will also provide a guide for those studying seals in other parts of the world and those carrying out research on other large mammal species.

Preface D. B. Siniff
Introduction R. M. Laws
1. Identification of species R. M. Laws
2. Estimation of population sizes A. W. Erickson, D. B. Siniff and A. J. Harwood
3. Immobilization and capture A. W. Erickson and M. N. Bester
4. Marking techniques and programmes A. W. Erickson, M. N. Bester and R. M. Laws
5. Telemetry and electronic technology J. L. Bengtson
6. Behaviour I. Stirling, R. L. Gentry and T. S. McCann
7. Killing methods W. N. Bonner
8. Morphometrics, specimen collection and preservation W. N. Bonner and R. M. Laws
9. Genetic based studies for stock separation P. D. Shaughnessy, R. J. Hofman, T. E. Dowling and W. M. Brown
10. Collection of material for determination of organochlorine and heavy metal levels P. D. Shaughnessy
11. Age determination T. S. McCann
12. Reproduction R. M. Laws and A. A. Sinha
13. Diet J. P. Croxall
14. Bioenergetics S. S. Anderson, D. Costa and M. A. Fedak
15. Development of technology and research needs R. M. Laws
16. Appendices
Index.