Analysis of the re-colonization of San Benito Archipelago by Guadalupe fur seals (Arctocephalus townsendi)
Por:
Esperon-Rodriguez, M, Gallo-Reynoso, JP
Publicada:
1 ene 2012
Resumen:
Exploitation of the Guadalupe fur seal (GFS) during the XVIII and XIX centuries almost extirpated the species. GFS were distributed from the Revillagigedo islands (Mexico) to the gulf of Farallones (USA). At present, reproductive colonies are found at Guadalupe Island and San Benito Archipelago (SBA). The aim of this work was to analyze the process of re-colonization and the current status of GFS at SBA. The first births and the occupation of the west island of the SBA are also reported. Census data from 1997 to 2007 indicated an annual growth rate for the population of 21.6%. The population size, growth tendency of the colony, reproductive biology, and food preferences were also studied. A total of 2,227 GFS were counted at SBA. Three squid species (Loligo opalescens, Onychoteuthis banksii, Dosidicus gigas) were found to be the main dietary components. Territoriality, activity patterns, and reproductive behavior were similar for the seals from Guadalupe Island and SBA. The mean growth
Filiaciones:
Esperon-Rodriguez, M:
Univ Nacl Autonoma Mexico, Inst Ciencias Mar & Limnol, Posgrad Ciencias Mar & Limnol, Mexico City 04510, DF, Mexico
Gallo-Reynoso, JP:
Ctr Invest Alimentac & Desarrollo AC, Unidad Guaymas, Guaymas 85480, Sonora, Mexico
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