BACKGROUND
Cetaceans, which include whales, dolphins, and porpoises, are vital components of the marine ecosystem, as they play essential roles in maintaining balance and supporting biodiversity. Historically, collecting valuable physiological data from wild cetaceans has employed invasive methods, such as boat capture, remotely darted biopsies, or netting for small cetaceans such as dolphins. These invasive methods can cause stress or injury to the animals, while contaminating the results due to stress-induced physiological changes. Some researchers have considered utilizing uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and breath sample collection methods for biological analysis.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
Oklahoma State University researchers have developed an innovative siphon sample collection system that applies suction to the intake area, capturing particles in a 100-micron mesh apparatus to improve both the quality and quantity of samples collected during small cetacean breath testing. The sample payload design allows for effective remote sample collection when integrated into a fixed wing drone or UAV. Additionally, a pH-reactive dye is incorporated into the collection mesh to verify that samples are collected from the intended species.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Marine Health Monitoring for Wildlife Conservation Organizations
- Marine Theme Parks & Aquariums
- Commercial Fishing Industry
- Marine Mammal Science & Rehabilitation Centers
- Murine Model Breath Sampling
MAIN ADVANTAGES
- Removes need for physically contacting the cetaceans
- Identifies sample species
- Reduces stress on marine life
- Improves data on monitoring stress levels
STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT