Korean Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (한국수산과학회지)

The Korean Society of Fisheries and Aquatic Science (한국수산과학회)
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Application of an AI-based Program for Photo-identification of Spotted Seals Phoca largha, and Analysis of Site Preference on Baengnyeongdo Island

AI기반 프로그램을 이용한 백령도 점박이물범(Phoca largha)의 사진개체 식별과 휴식지 선호도 연구

  • Namgyu Uh (Cetacean Research Institute, National Institute of Fisheries Science) ;
  • So Ra Kim (Cetacean Research Institute, National Institute of Fisheries Science) ;
  • Kyum Joon Park (Cetacean Research Institute, National Institute of Fisheries Science) ;
  • Sang-Heon Lee (Department of Oceanography, Pusan National University) ;
  • Hyun Woo Kim (Coastal Water Fisheries Resources Research Division, National Institute of Fisheries Science)
  • 어남규 (국립수산과학원 고래연구소) ;
  • 김소라 (국립수산과학원 고래연구소) ;
  • 박겸준 (국립수산과학원 고래연구소) ;
  • 이상헌 (부산대학교 해양학과) ;
  • 김현우 (국립수산과학원 연근해자원과)
  • Received : 2024.09.11
  • Accepted : 2024.10.07
  • Published : 2024.10.31
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Abstract

In this study, the AI-based photo-identification program IBEIS was used to efficiently analyze the photo-identification of spotted seals Phoca largha, around Baengnyeongdo Island, Korea. A total of 3,640 photographs collected during field surveys from 2016 to 2021 were analyzed, leading to the identification of 1,234 seals. The spotted seal population around Baengnyeongdo Island was estimated to be at least 1,200 individuals. The photo-identification method relies on the unique black spot patterns on the left cheek of the seals, which remain consistent over time. This method allows for long-term ecological studies and tracking of individual seals. In addition, site preferences of the spotted seals were analyzed, revealing that more than 70% of individuals were re-identified at the site where they were first observed and indicating site preference. The results suggest that environmental and ecological factors may influence habitat preferences. Future studies, including collaborative efforts with neighboring countries such as North Korea and China, will provide more comprehensive insights into the habitat usage patterns of the species. This study offers a foundation for estimating the population size of spotted seals and key data for habitat management and conservation strategies by using AI-based photo identification methods.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

본 연구는 국립수산과학원 2024년도 수산시험연구사업 중 고래류 평가 및 관리 연구(R2024004)의 지원을 받아 수행되었습니다. 조사에 참여한 모든 연구원께 감사합니다.

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