Population Structure and Management of the Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)

This project consists of a large-scale genetic study of the Western Australian Humpback (Antarctic Area Group IV). The primary aim of this study is to determine whether humpback whales in Western Australia (Antarctic Area Group IV) comprise distinct genetic subgroups and therefore unique conservation units. The purpose of Muriel's research is to find out as much as possible about the humpback whale in WA in order to manage and protect this very valuable stock by determining which subgroups may be susceptible to impact by human activities.