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Cook Islands Humpback Whale Survey
Research Methods: Genetics & Toxicology | Photo Identification | Humpback song
Genetics
Genetic material (DNA) coded with individual whales' attributes can be gleaned from samples of their skin. Skin samples are collected by two methods. Skin sloughed off as whales dive, tail slap or breach, is collected whenever possible. However, since skin is not sloughed predictably, skin and blubber samples are also collected with a small biopsy dart when necessary. Samples of both types are logged with a unique access number, allowing cross-referencing of photo-ID and field data recorded simultaneously. Samples are preserved and stored according to established protocols for later analysis. DNA will be subsequently analyzed to determine the sex and relatedness of individuals. On a larger scale, samples are compared with those in existing databases to assess population identity of Cook Islands humpbacks and genetic diversity in humpbacks worldwide.
Toxicology
The long lives and high lipid content blubber of humpback whales predispose them to be severely affected by exposure to chronic contaminant burdens. However, little research of this nature has been conducted. Portions of the biopsy samples collected for genetic analysis will be analyzed for toxic contaminant burden and biomarkers of likely risk to evaluate the toxicological status of the Cook Islands humpbacks.
Photo Identification | Humpback song | Genetics & Toxicology | Survey
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