Dear Marmamers,
The following paper on Australian Snubfin and Indo-Pacific humpback
dolphins was recently published:
Parra, G. J., Schick, R. and Corkeron, P. J. 2006. Spatial distribution and environmental
correlates of Australian snubfin and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. Ecography
29:1-11
Abstract
We present data on the spatial
distribution of Australian snubfin and humpback dolphins using boat-based line
transect surveys in three adjacent bays located in the Far Northern Section of
the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park,
northeast Queensland.
We used Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and both randomization and Mantel
tests to examine the relationship between the spatial distribution of the
dolphins and three simple, readily quantified, environmental variables:
distance to land, distance to river mouth, and water depth. Mantel tests
allowed us to make clear inferences about the correlation of the species’
distributions with environmental variables, while taking into account spatial
autocorrelation and intercorrelation among variables. Randomization tests
indicated snubfin and humpback dolphins occur closer to land than would be
expected at random. Two-sample randomization tests indicated snubfin dolphins were
found closer to river mouths than were humpback dolphins. Taking spatial
autocorrelation into account, Mantel tests indicated all environmental variables
were correlated with the spatial distribution of snubfin and humpback dolphins.
Interspecific differences in spatial distribution appeared to be related to proximity
to river mouths. Preference by snubfin and humpback dolphins for nearshore,
estuarine waters is likely related to the productivity of these tropical coastal
areas. This spatial analysis suggests that existing protected areas in this
region may not include the most critical habitats for snubfin and humpback
dolphins. The techniques used here shown relationships between the spatial
distribution of the dolphins and environmental features that should facilitate
their management and conservation.
The paper is available through the online early issue service of Blackwell: http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.2006.0906-7590.04411.x.
Those without a subscription to the journal can request a PDF
copy from me: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Cheers
Guido
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Guido J. Parra, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow
School of Veterinary Science
University of Queensland
St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
Ph: (07) 3365-3066 Mob: 0437630843
Fax: (07) 3365-1255 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
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