Developing a Better Method of Tag Attachment for Cetaceans

Abstract

Abstract : The overall goal of this project was to develop and test several novel methods of tag attachment for cetaceans. The primary goal was to increase the duration of tag attachment while limiting the detrimental effects of placing an anchoring device in or on the animals. We proposed to develop and test several novel approaches for attaching instruments to marine mammals, especially large whales. Long-term attachment requires a firm and biocompatible anchor into the animal that causes the least amount of injury and infection and resists the tendency for rejection. The type of tag used is dependent on the required duration of the attachment, thus a noninvasive suction cup attachment might be used for short-term attachments (e.g., hours to a day), whereas an implanted tag that is invasive might be used for attachments intended to last months or years. We proposed a prong with lateral movement (called an anchoring wing) after tag penetration that would be more effective as a deterrent to rejection. The combination of a more secure anchor and a smaller tag will increase the longevity of the tag deployment. We also proposed to develop and test minor modifications to suction-cup attachments (i.e., post with barb) that will increase the duration of the attachment of instruments via suction cups. Finally, we proposed a barb attachment with an external tag that would minimize the implantable portion of the tag while allowing prolonged attachment (e.g., 1 to 4 weeks) beyond that afforded by suction-cup attachments (0 to 2 days). These attachment types would be designed, bench tested, and subsequently tested on stranded cetacean carcasses. Future funding will allow for these various attachment techniques to be tested on free-ranging animals.