the progreuB were designed to facilitate the immediate reporting 

 of data. The Miami Lab will produce a 7 and a 30 day report. 



Specimen and Cfi^ Collection Protocols: Sylvia Gallmfay 



Why do dolphins die? We would like to collect samples to 

 explain how they die, and for metal and contaminimt analyses. A 

 group convened by the NMFS reviewed the investigation of the 1990 

 Gulf of Mexico die-off and reached the consensus that a multi- 

 disciplinary approach was necessary to gain adequate data from 

 strandings. As a result, a data inventory list was prepared in 

 advance of another large die-off. 



In addition, a kit was prepared in order to deal with 

 unusual stranding events. These kits will go to a few trained 

 individuals to begin building a database. The kits were designed 

 by working with both experienced and inexperienced people in a 

 triple necropsy. Peirticipants discussed each specimen and the 

 requirements of each protocol, identified conflicts, and resolved 

 most of the conflicts in a round-table discussion. 



The integrated protocol included a sample collection 

 checklist. It was determined that a team is needed to perform a 

 good necropsy on a code 2 animal, and a very fresh animal is 

 necessary for microbiological analysis. Large pieces of tissue 

 are needed for hi stopatho logical work. A veterinarian responding 

 to a Code 2 stranding can obtain most of these data. 



It was decided to collect complete stomachs for pathology 

 examination along with stomach contents. Locations and methods 

 for obtaining blubber measurements needed to be specified. A 

 compromise was to identify three points on the luiimal: one 

 varieQ}le and dependent upon the species; one a standard point; 

 and for the third, more information is needed before a 

 determination can be made. 



Disposable supplies from the kits will be replenished by the 

 user. These are not intended as field necropsy kits. Large 

 tissues should be taken back to the lab for clean sub-sampling. 

 There will be instructions for the appropriate use of the kits. 

 Each Area Representative will maintain a fully-stocked kit. The 

 kits are to be used to respond to an unxisual stranding event (as 

 defined by a designated peuiel of experts), or Code 2 strandings. 

 They should not be used for other strandings. Federal and army 

 surplus stores cure good soxirces for general field necropsy 

 supplies. 



i)ata Collection 



The NMFS will provide materials to the SEDS Stranding 



215 



