| Summary: | This study tested the efficacy of data obtained from a FatMeter – a hand-held device that uses low-level microwave emissions - to estimate lipid stores in 8 trained Steller sea lions. FatMeter technology is currently used in the commercial fish industry to estimate lipid content, and this study will determine how accurately it can estimate relative body composition of Steller sea lions, which (combination of) anatomical sites provide measures that yield the highest accuracy, and whether additional morphological measures can improve the effectiveness of this technique. Data was collected during natural seasonal changes in body condition, as well as before and after experimentally induced episodes of nutritional stress. The datasets include 2 Excel files that are saved in csv format. The main file contains records for each of the 23 trials. Each record consists of measures of absolute and relative measures of total body water, morphological measures (mass, length, and girth at 5 locations), and 20 FatMeter readings (10 each when animal wet and dry) at dorsal and lateral locations at the same 5 anatomical sites as the girth measurements. The second data file contains blubber depth measurements taken at these same 10 locations for the same 23 trials. Overall, the FatMeter measurements showed great promise for providing a quick estimate of body composition in sea lions. Measurements at two locations, particularly when combined, could significantly predict relative body water content across different nutritional states. However, as with all new technology, there needs to be continued refinement and testing before implementation in field studies. The eventual goal is to provide a quick, reliable tool that can be used to evaluate the physiological status of Steller sea lions and other pinnipeds in the field. This will facilitate science-based management of Steller sea lions, particularly in reference to fishery management issues. This data was collected as part of NPRB project 1817.
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