Development of an analytical method to exclude the effect of decomposition on carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios using muscle samples collected from stranded narrow-ridged finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis).

Unlabelled: Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios (i.e., δ C and δ N values) in soft tissues of cetaceans are reported to change on decomposition.

Sound variation and function in captive Commerson's dolphins (Cephalorhynchus commersonii).

Commerson's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus commersonii), one of the smallest dolphin species, has been reported to produce only narrow-band high-frequency (NBHF) clicks and no whistles. To clarify their sound repertoire and examine the function of each type, we analysed the sounds and behaviour of captive Commerson's dolphins in Toba Aquarium, Japan. All recorded sounds were NBHF clicks with peak frequency >110kHz.

Hematology and serum biochemistry values in five captive finless porpoises (Neophocaena phocaenoides).

Hematological and serum biochemical values in five captive finless porpoises (Neophocaena phocaenoides) were examined, and abnormalities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase and γ-glutamyltransferase were determined in a male finless porpoise. The numbers of white and red blood cells in pregnant female porpoises were significantly lower than those in nonpregnant ones (P<0.05).