Passive acoustic recording to build acoustic catalogs to remotely monitor resident individuals and the health of the dolphin population in the Indian River Lagoon system in Florida

Abstract

Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University together with, NOAA's National Ocean Service/Center for Coastal Environmental Health & Biomolecular Research initiated a research program designed to assess environmental and anthropogenic stressors that may affect the health and long-term viability of bottlenose dolphin populations inhabiting coastal regions of Florida and South Carolina This collaborative program is known as the Health and Environmental Risk Assessment Project. The project involves the capture, sampling, and release of selected wild dolphin stocks to allow comprehensive health screenings by collecting and analyzing a variety of biomedical samples and associated data. During Indian River Lagoon (IRL) dolphin population assessment, the acoustic behavior of 33 individual dolphins was recorded using synchronized DARP buoys configured with directional and omnidirectional hydrophones. Vocalizations were recorded during the capture, holding and health sampling phases. Acoustic levels and behavior during ABR hearing measurements were also monitored. The whistle contours of 23 individuals have been identified and will be added to the photo-identification and genetic catalog maintained for the IRL population. These signature whistles will be used to train a network of remote acoustic sensors to monitor the distribution, social interactions, and habitat utilization of cataloged dolphins in the IRL. Authorized NMFS permit 14352-01.