Population identity of humpback whales utilising South Australian waters

Project description

This project will investigate the population identity of humpback whales frequenting SA waters. Sightings of humpback whales in SA waters, including inside Gulf St Vincent, have increased significantly over the last few years. It is uncertain whether these are represented by whales from the eastern or western Australian stocks of humpback whales, or if the recovery of the species in Australia is leading to a mixing of the two stocks. The study will use genomic markers and population genetic analyses to answer this question.

Assumed knowledge

This project fits a student with an analytical mind and an interest in marine mammals and molecular ecology. The project includes boat-based fieldwork to collect humpback whale samples.

Note: You need to register interest in projects from different supervisors (not a number of projects with the one supervisor).
You must also contact each supervisor directly to discuss both the project details and your suitability to undertake the project.