Population biology of ringed seals in Svalbard, Norway, Dr.gr.stip.

This 3.5-year programme (2002-2005) will investigate important aspects of ringed seal population biology and ecology. The 8 projects within the programme will expand our general knowledge of ringed seal ecology in Svalbard and contribute to local and nati onal management plans as well as an international ringed seal monitoring network. The programme will include studies of --1)stock structure of ringed seals in the North East Atlantic (genetics) with an emphasis on local sub-structure within Svalbard 2)sp ring and early summer haul-out behaviou in relation to meteorological conditions and point in the season as well as spatial dynamics in relation to ice features 3)prey availability and space use during the spring season 4)determination of density and abun dance of ringed seals in selected fjords in Svalbard, as a basis for further monitoring and current management 5)comparative study of population parameters determined in 1981-82 and the present to investigate potential change in vital rates or the age and sex structure of the population 6)diet on a local and seasonal basis 7)an evaluation of assessment of contaminant exposure and condition effects on steroid homeostasis.