Use of molecular and isotopic signatures to inform foraging ecology and conservation needs for cryptic cetacean species

Studentship strategic priority area: Biodiversity Keywords: Marine, cetacean, stable isotopes, fatty acid, feeding ecology

Abstract: We propose to use samples derived from dead stranded animals to ascertain stable isotope signatures of lipids (e.g., fatty acids; Delta D and Delta 13C) and bulk skin (Delta13C and Delta15N) from stranded cold-water (H. ampullatus; n > 25) and warmer-water (Ziphius cavirostris n>15 ; M. bidens; n > 60) adapted beaked whales. Analysis of archived samples 1992-2021 will allow reconstruction of changes in foraging ecology in these important British beaked whale species.

With these data, we aim to identify general dietary plasticity and define ecologic stressors (i.e., interspecfic competition for food) that should be monitored. This research will also allow examination of lifetime movements of these animals to elucidate historical shifts in their growth and/or movements. This research is crucial to establish an ecological framework for conservation management towards sustainable marine communities.