Spatial Ecology of Humpback and Minke Whales in the Antarctic

We are broadly interested in understanding the foraging & spatial ecology of top predators in marine ecosystems. Ari Friedlaender's dissertation research focused on how humpback and minke whales are distributed in the Antarctic in relation to physical features of their environment (i.e. sea ice cover, bathymetry, water temperatures) and direct measurements of their prey (antarctic krill). We are currently involved in further work in the Antarctic to better understand how different assemblages of krill predators (whales, seals, penguins) affect or are affected by the distribution and behavior of their prey. We also hope to tag humpback whales in the Antarctic to reconstruct their movements and foraging behavior underwater and in relation to their prey. Such observations offer unique insights into how these predators locate, interact with, and consume their prey.

Supported by the National Science Foundation and the International Whaling Commission

For additional information contact: Ari Friedlaender (asf7@duke.edu)