Over 150 Caspian seals will be collected from their habitat
for scientific research aimed at conserving rare and endangered fish and animal
species. According to a government decree, the seals will be collected from the
Seal Islands, as well as the islands of Durnev and Aktoty in the Caspian Sea,
along the coasts of the Mangystau and Atyrau regions. Experts estimate that the
population of Caspian seals, listed in the Red Data Book four years ago, now
exceeds 300,000, with no decline compared to previous years. This time, the
research will extend beyond counting the animal populations.
«Morphometric measurements involve assessing the seal’s
length from nose to flippers, chest circumference, and weight. Next,
virological studies are conducted, including swabs from the throat, nose, and
eyes. Surgical studies are performed on blood and serum samples. Following
this, we conduct ultrasound examinations, temperature measurements, and
electronic chipping of seals. We evaluate the dynamics and condition of seal
populations at their haul-out sites, as well as study the age structure and
determine the gender. The results will be presented next year,» said Anuar
Shagilbayev, Head of the Laboratory at the Institute of Hydrobiology and
Ecology.
Editor: Гайни Жумабек
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