Life in an aquatic environment involves anatomic and physiologic adaptations that have long fascinated scientists. From the logbook entries of early whalers to recent advances in biologgers and sampling techniques, a foundation of understanding has emerged, and the interest in cetacean physiology continues to grow. However, with lifespans of many species rivalling that of humans, the ability to overcome rapid environmental change has become a challenge for some populations, and poses a provocative research question for science. With some successes, and a few failures, I will discuss the road to understanding the effect of environmental threats on the physiology and metabolism of cetaceans, with a focus on the endangered southern resident killer whale population. From biologging to blow sampling, through to genome, metabolome, and microbiome analyses, we bring the laboratory to the field and back again.

Sheila Thornton is the Program Head of the Marine Mammal Conservation Physiology program with the Dept of Fisheries and Oceans. Her program focuses on at-risk cetacean species and investigating impacts from anthropogenic threats (noise, vessel traffic, changes in prey abundance, etc). She leads a team of highly talented and motivated biologists and technicians, and works closely with universities to supervise and support graduate student projects at all levels.

This presentation will take place at Vancouver Unitarians Hewett Hall, Lindsey Priestly Room, 949 w 49th ave, and online via Zoom.  There will be an opportunity for socializing, with light refreshments, from 7 PM to 7:30. On the Monday preceding the event, Nature Vancouver members will receive the Zoom link in the weekly e-News.  The talk will begin at 7:30 pm.  Non-members are welcome and should Email zoom-request@NatureVancouver.ca between the preceding Friday and Wednesday to register for the link.