The Ecology of Baleen Whales in Irish Waters - Resolving Migrations, Stock Structure and Trophodynamics using Molecular Genetics and Stable Isotopes

Research Measure:             Policy

Funding Type:                      IRCSET EMBARK

Funding Year:                      2009

Project Type:                        PhD Scholarship

Total Grant-Aid:                    €72,000

Lead Partner:                       Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology

Project Summary:               

Knowledge on the basic ecology of the three most abundant baleen whale species in Irish waters (Fin, Humpback and Minke whales) is lacking. This PhD project (in partnership with Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and the Marine Institute) will use molecular genetics to investigate population dynamics in collaboration with international whale geneticists. Studying diet of large whales is challenging, as such, stable isotope analysis of skin, blubber and baleen will shed light on both their diet and movements. Samples will be taken using biopsy darts and from stranded whales.