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physiology of such uniquely adapted mammals can be difficult
to study on wild, uncooperative subjects. We are able
to use our close relationship with the SLEWTHS sea lions
to permit numerous highly specialized investigations into
their unique physiological adaptations. One of the most
interesting characteristics of marine mammals is their
capacity to function as air breathers in a cold, aquatic
environment. The SLEWTHS project has conducted many investigations
regarding these adaptations including metabolic rate,
heart rate, biomechanics, and blood flow. |
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Molting Dynamics:
SLEWTHS is currently studying the molting
phenology of five of our six California sea lions, including
Cali (a juvenile female). Results so far have shown that the
sea lions tend to start molting in July and finish molting
in November. The molt also progresses in a very clear pattern,
starting on the ventral surface and the flippers, and progressing
around the body until completion is reached on the dorsal
surface. Future studies may include hormonal implications
in molting and water temperature correlations with regard
to timing of the molt. Policy recommendations may also be
made as to when to collect fur for mercury content analysis
in wild populations.
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Comparing
sea lions and human divers:
In March of 2001 two of the sea lions began participating
in a study comparing dive physiology (including heart
rate, blood lactate, and effects of instrumentation) between
pinnipeds and humans. Some of the best human free-divers
from Europe (including: Loic Leferme and Pierre Frolla),
are participating in the investigation in Moss Landing
to make comparisons side by side with our sea lions in
the ocean, diving to depths of up to 100 ft.
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Biomechanics:
Swimming Mechanics studies both in the pools and the open
ocean are being used to study the effects of field instrumentation
on the swimming and diving capabilities of sea lions.
Comparisons will be made with instruments varying in weight,
shape, buoyancy, and body placement. The results should
help establish a calibration for field studies using instrumentation
and provide direction in future instrument design.
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Calibration
for field studies:
Accurate calibrations are necessary to establish parameters
for numerous techniques that are used in the field to
study wild animals. This is inherently difficult to accomplish
with wild animals, so the SLEWTHS sea lions have been
used to study and calibrate various field research techniques
including: stomach temperature, prey passage, respiratory
rate and general equipment testing.
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