Mark-Recapture Analysis of the Critically Endangered Eastern Taiwan Strait Population of Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphins (Sousa Chinensis): : Implications for Conservation

摘要: Accurate and precise estimates of abundance survival rates are important for assessing the conservation status cetacean populations. Mark-recapture analysis photo-identification data critically endangered eastern Taiwan Strait (ETS) population Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Sousa chinensis (Osbeck, 1765), was conducted on collected between 2007 2010 to refine a preliminary, only available, estimate this isolated (n = 99; CV 51.6%), as well provide rates. About 14,000 good quality photographs (about 2100-6300 yr-1) were used both parameters marked animals under Pollock's Robust Design model. The total size (NT) determined by correcting proportion possessing long-lasting marks (?). annual point lower, varying from 54 74, had much better precision (CV varied 4% 13%) than previous estimates, suggesting that mark-recapture is suitable method estimating population. These also further supported precarious state ETS another criterion IUCN Red List Threatened Species. As expected long-lived mammals, apparent rate high at 0.985 (95% CI 0.832-0.998). Continuing monitor dolphins with such accuracy will allow examination population's trends over time understand its future persistence.