Research Interests:I began my work with NOAA in the early nineteen-eighties as a Fisheries Biologist aboard tropical tuna purse-seiners. This enabled me to witness a dynamic fishery and to observe the rich biodiversity of marine fauna found in pelagic waters of the eastern tropical Pacific (ETP). These experiences fueled my interest to support and conduct research on the morphology and life history of ETP dolphins. The studies later provided a better understanding of geographic range and structure of dolphin populations involved in the ETP yellowfin tuna fishery Present research involves the use of fishery and aerial photogrammetric data to investigate biological parameters for blue whale populations. Morphometric analyses support delineation of exploited populations based on clear differences in the lengths of blue whales sampled in different regions of the Pacific and Southern Oceans. Morphological data will further be used to evaluate the biological condition of blue whales during certain years and seasons. Current field efforts also include aerial photography of ETP dolphins to help resolve questions on school and geographic structure. Additionally, I support our Division in aerial photogrammetric surveys of other rorquals and pinniped and sea bird populations around the Pacific. Free time spent surfing, reading the history of Latin America and watching my two boys play tackle football. |