To whom it may concern:
The following paper has been published in this month's issue of Canadian
Journal of Zoology:
Population genetics and social organization of the sperm whale (Physeter
macrocephalus) in the Azores inferred by microsatellite analyses
A. M. Pinela, S. Quérouil, S. Magalhães, M. A. Silva, R. Prieto, J. A. Matos,
and R. S. Santos
Can. J. Zool. 87(9): 802–813 (2009) | doi:10.1139/Z09-066
Abstract: In the northeast Atlantic Ocean, the archipelago of the Azores is
frequented by female–offspring groups of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus
L., 1758), as well as large males. The Azores apparently constitute both a
feeding ground and a reproduction site. Little is known about the population
and group structure of sperm whales in the area. We analysed 151 sloughed skin
and biopsy samples collected from 2002 to 2004. Molecular analyses involved
genetic tagging using 11 microsatellite loci and molecular sexing. Our
objectives were to determine the population genetic structure, compare
relatedness within and between social groups, infer kinship, and estimate the
age of males at dispersal. Results suggest that individuals visiting the
archipelago of the Azores belong to a single population. High genetic diversity
and absence of inbreeding suggest that the population is recovering from
whaling. Individuals sampled in close association are highly related, as well
as those observed in the same area on the same day, suggesting that secondary
social groups (i.e., the union of primary social units) are largely but not
exclusively composed of relatives. Probable mother–offspring and full-sibling
pairs were identified. Age of males at dispersal was estimated at 16.6 years,
which was well above previous estimates for this species.
Here is the link to the Abstract page:
http://rparticle.web-p.cisti.nrc.ca/rparticle/AbstractTemplateServlet?calyLang=eng&journal=cjz&volume=87&year=0&issue=9&msno=z09-066
If you are interested in a reprint please write to one of these e-mail
addresses:
[email protected] or [email protected]
Thank you very much in advance.
Best regards,
Ana Pinela
Ana Pinela, Ph.D. Candidate
University of Barcelona
Faculty of Biology
Dpt. Animal Biology
Av. Diagonal 645
08028 Barcelona
Spain
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