BIOPSYING SOUTHERN RIGHT WHALES:THEIR REACTIONS AND EFFECTS ON REPRODUCTION

摘要: Collecting skin biopsies from large whales for genetic analysis is often subject to national permit, and in the case of cow-calf pairs, it may be prohibited. We present results 906 biopsy attempts on southern right (Eubalaena australis) South African waters between 1995 1997, including 147 pairs. Our sampling success was higher darts with a bore 4 mm compared 4.6 mm. Contact periods averaged 17.7 min pairs 25.4 unaccompanied by calves. There were no significant differences short-term reactions males females biopsying, but reaction single animals either sex greater than larger groups. Cows accompanied calves had strongest reactions, which significantly even females. found evidence sensitization repeat biopsying (over hours 65 days) cows not (n = 20). subsequent reproductive history 117 biopsied that 163 unbiopsied same years, we distribution calving intervals 829 recorded 1985 1995. did detect any adverse effects proportion successful cycles, hence calf survival, or longer-than-normal although power all statistical tests low. concluded prohibition should carefully reconsidered light valuable insights such could achieve.