Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences

The Korean Society of Fisheries and Aquatic Science (한국수산과학회)
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First satellite tracking of a free-ranging spotted seal (Phoca largha) from the Baengnyeongdo Island

  • Hyun Woo Kim (Coastal Water Fisheries Resources Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science) ;
  • Namgyu Uh (Cetacean Research Institute, National Institute of Fisheries Sciences) ;
  • Seulhee Lee ( West Sea Fisheries Research Institute, National Institute of Fisheries Sciences)
  • Received : 2023.08.03
  • Accepted : 2023.10.25
  • Published : 2023.11.30
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Abstract

The spotted seal (Phoca largha) in the Yellow Sea has declined due to poaching and habitat destruction. To aid conservation efforts, Argos satellite tracking were used to monitor the movements of a free ranging spotted seal around Baengnyeongdo Island. The satellite-transmitting tag successfully attached to the seal provided 1,556 location data collected during 107 days. The seal mostly moved between two haul-out sites, Yeonbong Rock and Mulbeom Rock. From October 6th to December 12th, the seal stayed within a 7 km radius of Yeonbong Rock. However, as the signal was lost, it was not possible to identify when the seal started to migrate from Baengnyeongdo Island to winter breeding area. This study provide understanding into the habitat preferences and movement patterns of spotted seals around Baengnyeongdo Island, contributing to the conservation and management of this species. Further research with more individuals and different age groups is essential to understand their habitat preference and develop effective conservation measures for the spotted seal population in the Yellow Sea.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by a grant from the National Institute of Fisheries Science, Ministry of Ocean and Fisheries (R2023057).

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