A sensitivity analysis to guide research and management for Hector's dolphin

摘要: Abstract Hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori) is an uncommon endemic of New Zealand which suspected to be in decline due entanglement mortality. However, uncertainty available data has led a dispute between the Ministry Fisheries and Department Conservation over status this species. We use density-dependent deterministic model predict future abundance geographic distribution under different scenarios fisheries management. then examine sensitivity number parameters for few or no are available. find that two populations dolphins predicted even when most optimistic parameter estimates used. The third population dependent upon estimate maximum annual growth rate. Because dependence final on mortality rates rate, research efforts should concentrated estimating these parameters.