A MASS DYING OF CRABEATER SEALS, LOBODON CARCINOPHAGUS (GRAY)

摘要: Summary. In 1955 some 3000 Crabeater Seals Lobodon carcinophagus wintered on the sea-ice of Crown Prince Gustav Channel. The seals, most which were young, ten times more numerous in than is normal winter. Most animals died spring from a contagious disease whose effect was probably increased by crowding and partial starvation. Its exact nature not elucidated, but virus infection likely. average mortality 85 per cent places figure 97 cent. Although population observed before, during after pupping season, no live births only abortions recorded. Some found three weeks before any adult or sign disease. It unlikely that epidemic had appreciable total number Antarctica. The did spread to intermingled Weddell Leptonychotes weddelli; diseased meat eaten dogs man with ill effects.