@article{
 title = {A sea of possibilities for marine megafauna},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 pages = {391-392},
 volume = {375},
 websites = {10.1126/science.abn6022,https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abn6022},
 month = {1},
 day = {28},
 id = {882dc463-01ff-3137-8e5d-a45cc26af426},
 created = {2022-01-31T08:27:11.187Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.780Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Alves, Filipe and Rosso, Massimiliano and Li, Songhai and Nowacek, Douglas P.},
 doi = {10.1126/science.abn6022},
 journal = {Science},
 number = {6579}
}

@article{
 title = {Computing ship strikes and near miss events of fin whales along the main ferry routes in the Pelagos Sanctuary and adjacent west area, in summer},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 keywords = {Mediterranean Sea,assessment,cetacean,conservation,fin whale,monitoring,protected species,relative abundance,ship strikes,threat},
 pages = {442-456},
 volume = {32},
 websites = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aqc.3781},
 month = {3},
 day = {13},
 id = {29e99c12-bce3-38c3-b316-3c4bfd7d89c9},
 created = {2022-02-14T08:34:00.032Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.834Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The Mediterranean Sea is a high-density maritime traffic area, particularly in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Ship strikes pose a substantial threat to fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) according to reports from the IUCN, the IWC, the ACCOBAMS and the EU Habitats Directive. Near miss events (NMEs) were collected, as a proxy indicator of ship strikes for fin whales, along the main ferry routes crossing the Pelagos Sanctuary and adjacent western waters during ‘summertime’ (April to October). The ‘Fixed Line Transect Med Network’ carries out systematic surveys from ferries and collects data according to the ‘linear transect’ method. From 2008 to 2019, 13 different ferry routes were surveyed with 238,499 km monitored. Of the 2,775 fin whales encountered, 43 individuals were involved in NMEs (1.55% of the sightings). NMEs occur over the great majority of the routes monitored with enough effort and were correlated with the density index of fin whales. High-risk areas for NMEs were identified in the central and deeper parts of the north-western Mediterranean Sea and in some sections of the northern Tyrrhenian Sea. Of all NMEs, the majority of whales (63.4%) surfaced in front of the vessel (<50 m), leaving no time for the crew to manoeuvre the vessel. The others were travelling (26.8%) or resting (9.7%) without any noticeable reaction at the vessel. The speed of the ferries seems to play a role in the occurrence of the NME, as this parameter is significantly different (t-test, P = 0.002) for NMEs compared to all fin whale sightings, whereas month and hour of day were not. Quantifying NMEs based on real-time observation with observers on board, could be used as a feasible and efficient way to limit collisions, raising awareness by the crew, and testing or evaluating other potential tools that can help mitigate this threat.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {David, Léa and Arcangeli, Antonella and Tepsich, Paola and Di-Meglio, Nathalie and Roul, Marine and Campana, Ilaria and Gregorietti, Martina and Moulins, Aurélie and Rosso, Massimiliano and Crosti, Roberto},
 doi = {10.1002/aqc.3781},
 journal = {Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems},
 number = {3}
}

The Mediterranean Sea is a high-density maritime traffic area, particularly in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Ship strikes pose a substantial threat to fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) according to reports from the IUCN, the IWC, the ACCOBAMS and the EU Habitats Directive. Near miss events (NMEs) were collected, as a proxy indicator of ship strikes for fin whales, along the main ferry routes crossing the Pelagos Sanctuary and adjacent western waters during ‘summertime’ (April to October). The ‘Fixed Line Transect Med Network’ carries out systematic surveys from ferries and collects data according to the ‘linear transect’ method. From 2008 to 2019, 13 different ferry routes were surveyed with 238,499 km monitored. Of the 2,775 fin whales encountered, 43 individuals were involved in NMEs (1.55% of the sightings). NMEs occur over the great majority of the routes monitored with enough effort and were correlated with the density index of fin whales. High-risk areas for NMEs were identified in the central and deeper parts of the north-western Mediterranean Sea and in some sections of the northern Tyrrhenian Sea. Of all NMEs, the majority of whales (63.4%) surfaced in front of the vessel (<50 m), leaving no time for the crew to manoeuvre the vessel. The others were travelling (26.8%) or resting (9.7%) without any noticeable reaction at the vessel. The speed of the ferries seems to play a role in the occurrence of the NME, as this parameter is significantly different (t-test, P = 0.002) for NMEs compared to all fin whale sightings, whereas month and hour of day were not. Quantifying NMEs based on real-time observation with observers on board, could be used as a feasible and efficient way to limit collisions, raising awareness by the crew, and testing or evaluating other potential tools that can help mitigate this threat.

@article{
 title = {Microplastic abundance and biodiversity richness overlap: Identification of sensitive areas in the Western Ionian Sea},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 pages = {113550},
 volume = {177},
 websites = {https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0025326X22002326},
 month = {4},
 id = {66226dd8-4c0e-3911-825b-f7e88c3037ff},
 created = {2022-03-23T08:06:21.443Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.844Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Galli, Matteo and Tepsich, Paola and Baini, Matteo and Panti, Cristina and Rosso, Massimiliano and Vafeiadou, Ariadni and Pantelidou, Martha and Moulins, Aurélie and Fossi, Maria Cristina},
 doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113550},
 journal = {Marine Pollution Bulletin},
 number = {March}
}

@article{
 title = {Multi-regional comparison of scarring and pigmentation patterns in Cuvier’s beaked whales},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 keywords = {Cuvier’s beaked whale,Photo identification,Vital r,cuvier,geographic comparison,photo identification,pigmentation patterns,s beaked whale,vital rates},
 websites = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s42991-022-00226-6},
 publisher = {Springer International Publishing},
 id = {a44d425c-fed8-3794-a88d-688c05f03307},
 created = {2022-04-25T23:10:56.788Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-04-25T23:11:00.235Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Coomber, Frazer G. and Falcone, Erin A. and Keene, Erin L. and Cárdenas-Hinojosa, Gustavo and Huerta-Patiño, Rodrigo and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 doi = {10.1007/s42991-022-00226-6},
 journal = {Mammalian Biology},
 number = {0123456789}
}

@article{
 title = {Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) in the northern South China Sea: Evidence of a nursing ground?},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 keywords = {Sperm whales,Deep waters,Historical records,Sighti},
 pages = {103767},
 volume = {184},
 websites = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsr.2022.103767},
 publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},
 id = {e098cdd3-6ec9-389b-becd-8929d4788c1a},
 created = {2022-04-26T07:51:11.700Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-04-26T07:51:20.089Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Liu, Mingming and Lin, Wenzhi and Lin, Mingli and Caruso, Francesco and Rosso, Massimiliano and Zhang, Peijun and Dong, Lijun and Dai, Liang and Li, Songhai},
 doi = {10.1016/j.dsr.2022.103767},
 journal = {Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers},
 number = {April}
}

@article{
 title = {Can we quantify the aquatic environmental plastic load from aquaculture ?},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 keywords = {Plastic load,Source of microplastics,Aquaculture,S},
 pages = {118551},
 volume = {219},
 websites = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.watres.2022.118551},
 publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},
 id = {362f86a2-47f6-3709-92d7-a783388a948f},
 created = {2022-05-11T07:32:18.943Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-11-17T10:51:45.431Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 folder_uuids = {33c34abd-302e-4378-9ff5-dcdde28b6c84},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Tian, Yichao and Yang, Zongyao and Yu, Xueying and Jia, Zhen and Rosso, Massimiliano and Dedman, Simon and Zhu, Jingmin and Xia, Yuxiang and Zhang, Guangping and Yang, Jiaqi and Wang, Jingzhen},
 doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2022.118551},
 journal = {Water Research},
 number = {April}
}

@article{
 title = {Science of the Total Environment UAV remote sensing applications in marine monitoring : Knowledge visualization and review},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 keywords = {Internet of things,Marine disasters,Marine litter,Marine management mapping,Marine megafauna,UAV systems},
 pages = {155939},
 volume = {838},
 websites = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155939},
 publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},
 id = {5b332c62-4204-3ead-a13d-1f01b9c31ac5},
 created = {2022-05-30T06:49:51.094Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-05-30T06:49:54.505Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Yang, Zongyao and Yu, Xueying and Dedman, Simon and Rosso, Massimiliano and Zhu, Jingmin and Yang, Jiaqi},
 doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155939},
 journal = {Science of the Total Environment},
 number = {May}
}

@article{
 title = {Reduction of Species Identification Errors in Surveys of Marine Wildlife Abundance Utilising Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 pages = {4118},
 volume = {14},
 id = {0d9aeea8-69f7-38ee-9775-a2e4cb954608},
 created = {2022-10-11T12:26:14.482Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-10-11T12:26:17.880Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The advent of unoccupied aerial vehicles (UAVs) has enhanced our capacity to survey wildlife abundance, yet new protocols are still required for collecting, processing, and analysing image-type observations. This paper presents a methodological approach to produce informative priors on species misidentification probabilities based on independent experiments. We performed focal follows of known dolphin species and distributed our imagery amongst 13 trained observers. Then, we investigated the effects of reviewer-related variables and image attributes on the accuracy of species identification and level of certainty in observations. In addition, we assessed the number of reviewers required to produce reliable identification using an agreement-based framework compared with the majority rule approach. Among-reviewer variation was an important predictor of identification accuracy, regardless of previous experience. Image resolution and sea state exhibited the most pronounced effects on the proportion of correct identifications and the reviewers’ mean level of confidence. Agreement-based identification resulted in substantial data losses but retained a broader range of image resolutions and sea states than the majority rule approach and produced considerably higher accuracy. Our findings suggest a strong dependency on reviewer-related variables and image attributes, which, unless considered, may compromise identification accuracy and produce unreliable estimators of abundance.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Bigal, Eyal and Galili, Ori and van Rijn, Itai and Rosso, Massimiliano and Cleguer, Christophe and Hodgson, Amanda and Scheinin, Aviad and Tchernov, Dan},
 doi = {10.3390/rs14164118},
 journal = {Remote Sensing},
 number = {16}
}

The advent of unoccupied aerial vehicles (UAVs) has enhanced our capacity to survey wildlife abundance, yet new protocols are still required for collecting, processing, and analysing image-type observations. This paper presents a methodological approach to produce informative priors on species misidentification probabilities based on independent experiments. We performed focal follows of known dolphin species and distributed our imagery amongst 13 trained observers. Then, we investigated the effects of reviewer-related variables and image attributes on the accuracy of species identification and level of certainty in observations. In addition, we assessed the number of reviewers required to produce reliable identification using an agreement-based framework compared with the majority rule approach. Among-reviewer variation was an important predictor of identification accuracy, regardless of previous experience. Image resolution and sea state exhibited the most pronounced effects on the proportion of correct identifications and the reviewers’ mean level of confidence. Agreement-based identification resulted in substantial data losses but retained a broader range of image resolutions and sea states than the majority rule approach and produced considerably higher accuracy. Our findings suggest a strong dependency on reviewer-related variables and image attributes, which, unless considered, may compromise identification accuracy and produce unreliable estimators of abundance.

@article{
 title = {Assessing data bias in visual surveys from a cetacean monitoring programme},
 type = {article},
 year = {2022},
 pages = {1-12},
 id = {a58ec302-4432-39b6-9834-07c6a4ef264b},
 created = {2022-11-17T10:49:34.369Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-11-17T10:55:03.403Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {false},
 hidden = {false},
 folder_uuids = {33c34abd-302e-4378-9ff5-dcdde28b6c84},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Oliveira-rodrigues, Cláudia and Correia, Ana M and Valente, Raul and Gil, Ágatha and Gandra, Miguel and Liberal, Marcos and Rosso, Massimiliano and Pierce, Graham and Sousa-, Isabel},
 doi = {10.1038/s41597-022-01803-7}
}

@article{
 title = {A pioneering survey of deep-diving and off-shore cetaceans in the northern South China Sea},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {South China Sea,cetacean diversity,deep divers,dolphins,whales},
 pages = {440-450},
 volume = {16},
 websites = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1749-4877.12508},
 month = {7},
 day = {25},
 id = {35183e71-e963-3dad-8c5e-2500fb7ce6bd},
 created = {2021-01-03T10:55:24.784Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.982Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {A pioneering boat-based survey was conducted in 2019, to gather baseline information regarding the presence, composition, relative abundance, and spatial distribution of deep-diving and off-shore cetaceans in the northern South China Sea (SCS). A total of 27 sightings comprising at least 8 cetacean species were recorded during the 13-day survey, including 5 deep-diving species (i.e. Risso's dolphin [Grampus griseus], short-finned pilot whale [Globicephala macrorhynchus], sperm whale [Physeter macrocephalus], Cuvier's beaked whale [Ziphius cavirostris], and an unidentified beaked whale [either the ginkgo-toothed beaked whale, Mesoplodon ginkgodens, or Deraniyagala's beaked whale, Mesoplodon hotaula]), as well as 3 off-shore dolphins (i.e. pantropical spotted dolphin [Stenella attenuate], striped dolphin [Stenella coeruleoalba], and Fraser's dolphin [Lagenodelphis hosei]). With the exception of pantropical spotted dolphins, all other species were sighted and recorded at sea in the northern SCS for the first time. The pantropical spotted dolphin was the most frequently sighted species, comprising 30% of the total sightings. Deep-diving cetaceans were mainly sighted in the northern Xisha Archipelago, whereas off-shore dolphins were distributed across the survey area. The pantropical spotted dolphin was observed in aggregations of more than 100 individuals and nearly all encountered species included calves; these findings suggested that the survey area functions as an important feeding and calving ground for various cetacean species. This pioneering survey provides fundamental information regarding cetacean fauna in the northern SCS and highlights the need to strengthen research and conservation efforts concerning these species.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Lin, Mingli and Liu, Mingming and Caruso, Francesco and Rosso, Massimiliano and Tang, Xiaoming and Dong, Lijun and Lin, Wenzhi and Borroni, Anna and Bocconcelli, Alessandro and Dai, Liang and Songhai, L. I.},
 doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.12508},
 journal = {Integrative Zoology},
 number = {4}
}

A pioneering boat-based survey was conducted in 2019, to gather baseline information regarding the presence, composition, relative abundance, and spatial distribution of deep-diving and off-shore cetaceans in the northern South China Sea (SCS). A total of 27 sightings comprising at least 8 cetacean species were recorded during the 13-day survey, including 5 deep-diving species (i.e. Risso's dolphin [Grampus griseus], short-finned pilot whale [Globicephala macrorhynchus], sperm whale [Physeter macrocephalus], Cuvier's beaked whale [Ziphius cavirostris], and an unidentified beaked whale [either the ginkgo-toothed beaked whale, Mesoplodon ginkgodens, or Deraniyagala's beaked whale, Mesoplodon hotaula]), as well as 3 off-shore dolphins (i.e. pantropical spotted dolphin [Stenella attenuate], striped dolphin [Stenella coeruleoalba], and Fraser's dolphin [Lagenodelphis hosei]). With the exception of pantropical spotted dolphins, all other species were sighted and recorded at sea in the northern SCS for the first time. The pantropical spotted dolphin was the most frequently sighted species, comprising 30% of the total sightings. Deep-diving cetaceans were mainly sighted in the northern Xisha Archipelago, whereas off-shore dolphins were distributed across the survey area. The pantropical spotted dolphin was observed in aggregations of more than 100 individuals and nearly all encountered species included calves; these findings suggested that the survey area functions as an important feeding and calving ground for various cetacean species. This pioneering survey provides fundamental information regarding cetacean fauna in the northern SCS and highlights the need to strengthen research and conservation efforts concerning these species.

@article{
 title = {First records of Cuvier’s beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris, G. Cuvier 1823) strandings along the Tunisian coast},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {Cuvier’s beaked whale,Distribution,First record,Mediterranean Sea,Tunisia},
 pages = {2},
 volume = {14},
 websites = {https://mbr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s41200-020-00197-y},
 month = {12},
 publisher = {Marine Biodiversity Records},
 day = {7},
 id = {cd71da34-50a7-3384-8fcd-3b64ca802d4d},
 created = {2021-01-07T21:40:11.950Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.210Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The Cuvier’s beaked whale ( Ziphius cavirostris ) is the only member of the Ziphiidae family with a regular occurrence in the Mediterranean Sea. Much of the knowledge of this species in the Mediterranean has come from stranding data. This note reports the first records of strandings of Cuvier’s beaked whales along the Tunisian coast. The two strandings described are about two specimens, likely adult animals. The first specimens was 530 cm long and beached at El Hicha (Gulf of Gabès, south Tunisia) on March 5th, 2019. The second specimens was 630 cm long and it was reported in Ras Angla (Bizerte, north Tunisia) on June 6th, 2019. Since this species faces multiple threats in the Mediterranean basin, this contribution is intended to extend previous knowledge of this species in the region and to push towards major efforts to be undertaken to fill the knowledge gaps regarding occurrence of Cuvier’s beaked whale along northern Tunisia.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Karaa, Sami and Jerbi, Hassen and Marouani, Sondes and Bradai, Mohamed Nejmeddine and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 doi = {10.1186/s41200-020-00197-y},
 journal = {Marine Biodiversity Records},
 number = {1}
}

The Cuvier’s beaked whale ( Ziphius cavirostris ) is the only member of the Ziphiidae family with a regular occurrence in the Mediterranean Sea. Much of the knowledge of this species in the Mediterranean has come from stranding data. This note reports the first records of strandings of Cuvier’s beaked whales along the Tunisian coast. The two strandings described are about two specimens, likely adult animals. The first specimens was 530 cm long and beached at El Hicha (Gulf of Gabès, south Tunisia) on March 5th, 2019. The second specimens was 630 cm long and it was reported in Ras Angla (Bizerte, north Tunisia) on June 6th, 2019. Since this species faces multiple threats in the Mediterranean basin, this contribution is intended to extend previous knowledge of this species in the region and to push towards major efforts to be undertaken to fill the knowledge gaps regarding occurrence of Cuvier’s beaked whale along northern Tunisia.

@article{
 title = {Lack of knowledge threatens beaked whales},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 pages = {791},
 volume = {371},
 websites = {https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abg8922},
 month = {2},
 day = {19},
 id = {2f33038b-de26-380b-ad5f-98ac9c5e7176},
 created = {2021-02-19T16:22:43.708Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.051Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Li, Songhai and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 editor = {Sills, Jennifer},
 doi = {10.1126/science.abg8922},
 journal = {Science},
 number = {6531}
}

@article{
 title = {Predicting Cetacean Distributions in the Eastern North Atlantic to Support Marine Management},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {GAM,Maxent,basin-scale modelling,ecological niche modelling,habitat preferences,suitable habitats},
 pages = {1-16},
 volume = {8},
 websites = {https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2021.643569/full},
 month = {5},
 day = {19},
 id = {51b948b6-3d03-3d9d-b4bf-e39c6fbabcdc},
 created = {2021-06-01T10:18:17.646Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.665Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Data on species occurrence at the scale of their distributional range and the determination of their habitat use requirements are essential to support conservation and define management plans that account for their habitat requirements. For wide-ranging species, such as cetaceans, especially considering that their marine habitats include offshore areas, collection of such data is challenging. In the absence of dedicated surveys, alternative methodologies are needed, such as the use of data collected from platforms of opportunity and modelling techniques to predict distribution in unsurveyed areas. Using 6 years of cetacean occurrence data collected along cargo ship routes between the Iberian Peninsula, northwestern African coasts and the Macaronesian islands, we developed ecological niche models to assess habitat preferences and predict suitable habitats of the eight most frequently sighted cetacean taxa in the area. Explanatory variables used for model fitting included topographic, oceanographic, detectability, geographic and seasonal features. To provide a robust habitat characterisation, along with predictions of habitat suitability, making best use of occurrence datasets, we applied two modelling techniques, GAM and Maxent, which offer complementary strengths. Coastal areas provide important habitats for common and bottlenose dophins, while other dolphin species (spotted and striped dolphins) have a more oceanic distribution. The predicted niches of Cuvier’s beaked whale and minke whales are mainly in the high seas at northern latitudes. Suitable habitats for sperm whales and pilot whales are mostly in southern areas in continental slope regions. For all the species, models indicated that areas around seamount features offer suitable habitats, likely of high relevance in oligotrophic offshore waters. As such, dedicated survey effort in such areas would facilitate development and implementation of appropriate management plans, which are currently lacking. Our models offer an important contribution to baseline knowledge of cetacean distribution at basin-scale in the region and could support the definition of priority areas, monitoring plans, and conservation measures, essential to comply with the requirements of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Correia, Ana M. and Sousa-Guedes, Diana and Gil, Ágatha and Valente, Raul and Rosso, Massimiliano and Sousa-Pinto, Isabel and Sillero, Neftalí and Pierce, Graham J.},
 doi = {10.3389/fmars.2021.643569},
 journal = {Frontiers in Marine Science},
 number = {May}
}

Data on species occurrence at the scale of their distributional range and the determination of their habitat use requirements are essential to support conservation and define management plans that account for their habitat requirements. For wide-ranging species, such as cetaceans, especially considering that their marine habitats include offshore areas, collection of such data is challenging. In the absence of dedicated surveys, alternative methodologies are needed, such as the use of data collected from platforms of opportunity and modelling techniques to predict distribution in unsurveyed areas. Using 6 years of cetacean occurrence data collected along cargo ship routes between the Iberian Peninsula, northwestern African coasts and the Macaronesian islands, we developed ecological niche models to assess habitat preferences and predict suitable habitats of the eight most frequently sighted cetacean taxa in the area. Explanatory variables used for model fitting included topographic, oceanographic, detectability, geographic and seasonal features. To provide a robust habitat characterisation, along with predictions of habitat suitability, making best use of occurrence datasets, we applied two modelling techniques, GAM and Maxent, which offer complementary strengths. Coastal areas provide important habitats for common and bottlenose dophins, while other dolphin species (spotted and striped dolphins) have a more oceanic distribution. The predicted niches of Cuvier’s beaked whale and minke whales are mainly in the high seas at northern latitudes. Suitable habitats for sperm whales and pilot whales are mostly in southern areas in continental slope regions. For all the species, models indicated that areas around seamount features offer suitable habitats, likely of high relevance in oligotrophic offshore waters. As such, dedicated survey effort in such areas would facilitate development and implementation of appropriate management plans, which are currently lacking. Our models offer an important contribution to baseline knowledge of cetacean distribution at basin-scale in the region and could support the definition of priority areas, monitoring plans, and conservation measures, essential to comply with the requirements of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

@article{
 title = {Predicting summer fin whale distribution in the Pelagos Sanctuary (north-western Mediterranean Sea) to identify dynamic whale–vessel collision risk areas},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {MaxEnt,Pelagos Sanctuary,fin whale,generalized additive models,north-western Mediterranean Sea,species distribution modelling,whale–vessel collision risk},
 pages = {2257-2277},
 volume = {31},
 websites = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aqc.3614},
 month = {8},
 day = {2},
 id = {e4b75edc-0ddd-31cd-858b-cc279a2bfbf8},
 created = {2021-07-27T10:25:54.689Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.718Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Mediterranean fin whales aggregating in the Pelagos Sanctuary in summer to feed are exposed to vessel collision risk, particularly from high-speed ferries. This study developed models to predict summer fin whale distribution using a generalized additive model (GAM) and MaxEnt, with the aim of providing a tool to identify potential high whale–ferry collision risk areas along ferry routes within the Pelagos Sanctuary during summertime. Models were trained using sightings data collected in the summer months of 2009–2018 on board ferries crossing the central area of the Pelagos Sanctuary. Environmental predictors were bathymetry and mean sea surface chlorophyll concentration of the annual spring bloom period. The predictive ability of GAM and MaxEnt was assessed using existing knowledge of summer fin whale distribution in the region. GAM (deviance explained = 20.2%) predictions matched documented distributions more closely than that of MaxEnt, with highest predicted fin whale occurrence in deep offshore waters (>2000 m) encompassing the central north-western and western regions, and in the south-eastern region, consistent with known fin whale habitats within the Pelagos Sanctuary. Inter-annual variability was evident, influencing collision risk areas. Collision risk was estimated as a function of the overlap between the predicted probability of fin whale occurrence and ferry density estimated from Automated Identification System data. Ferry routes that cross the northern and eastern regions of the Pelagos Sanctuary presented relatively higher collision risk. Areas with changes in risk intensity between the years were temporally and spatially dynamic: some appeared intermittently throughout the study period while others persisted over consecutive years or recurred in different years. Due to the vastness of the Pelagos Sanctuary, vessel speed reduction maybe a more practical measure to manage collision risk than re-routing shipping lanes. A combination of Seasonal Management Areas and Dynamic Management Areas approaches could be adopted for high-risk areas.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Ham, Gin Swen and Lahaye, Elise and Rosso, Massimiliano and Moulins, Aurelie and Hines, Ellen and Tepsich, Paola},
 doi = {10.1002/aqc.3614},
 journal = {Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems},
 number = {8}
}

Mediterranean fin whales aggregating in the Pelagos Sanctuary in summer to feed are exposed to vessel collision risk, particularly from high-speed ferries. This study developed models to predict summer fin whale distribution using a generalized additive model (GAM) and MaxEnt, with the aim of providing a tool to identify potential high whale–ferry collision risk areas along ferry routes within the Pelagos Sanctuary during summertime. Models were trained using sightings data collected in the summer months of 2009–2018 on board ferries crossing the central area of the Pelagos Sanctuary. Environmental predictors were bathymetry and mean sea surface chlorophyll concentration of the annual spring bloom period. The predictive ability of GAM and MaxEnt was assessed using existing knowledge of summer fin whale distribution in the region. GAM (deviance explained = 20.2%) predictions matched documented distributions more closely than that of MaxEnt, with highest predicted fin whale occurrence in deep offshore waters (>2000 m) encompassing the central north-western and western regions, and in the south-eastern region, consistent with known fin whale habitats within the Pelagos Sanctuary. Inter-annual variability was evident, influencing collision risk areas. Collision risk was estimated as a function of the overlap between the predicted probability of fin whale occurrence and ferry density estimated from Automated Identification System data. Ferry routes that cross the northern and eastern regions of the Pelagos Sanctuary presented relatively higher collision risk. Areas with changes in risk intensity between the years were temporally and spatially dynamic: some appeared intermittently throughout the study period while others persisted over consecutive years or recurred in different years. Due to the vastness of the Pelagos Sanctuary, vessel speed reduction maybe a more practical measure to manage collision risk than re-routing shipping lanes. A combination of Seasonal Management Areas and Dynamic Management Areas approaches could be adopted for high-risk areas.

@article{
 title = {Locating ship strike risk hotspots for fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) and sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) along main shipping lanes in the North-Western Mediterranean Sea},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {Balaenoptera physalus,Conservation,Hotspot,Pelagos sanctuary,Physeter macrocephalus,Ship strike},
 pages = {105820},
 volume = {212},
 websites = {https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0964569121003033},
 month = {10},
 id = {63c14112-1bb1-3e19-9d49-19f4cf626032},
 created = {2021-07-27T10:25:54.745Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.687Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The Pelagos Sanctuary is the only pelagic marine protected area in the Mediterranean Sea, instituted for the conservation of cetaceans. Considering the number and size of commercial and touristic ports located along its coasts, this protected area is highly impacted by human activities, and especially marine traffic. Fin whales and sperm whales are regularly sighted in the Pelagos Sanctuary, and ship strikes with large vessels are one of the main threats affecting these two species. Mapping hotspots of distribution along main shipping lanes could be an effective conservation tool, as they directly allow locating high risk areas. In this work, we used data collected during summer from 2009 to 2019, along main marine traffic corridors in the central region of Pelagos Sanctuary. Ship strike hotspots have been identified, considering the persistence of distribution hotspots over the 11 years period. Hotspots occurrence has then been predicted over the entire Pelagos Sanctuary area applying Generalized Additive Models, allowing for ship strike risk assessment over the marine protected area. Our results highlighted the recurrence of important areas for both species along shipping lanes characterized by high vessel traffic, identifying regions where to address conservation measures.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Grossi, Francesca and Lahaye, Elise and Moulins, Aurélie and Borroni, Anna and Rosso, Massimiliano and Tepsich, Paola},
 doi = {10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2021.105820},
 journal = {Ocean and Coastal Management}
}

The Pelagos Sanctuary is the only pelagic marine protected area in the Mediterranean Sea, instituted for the conservation of cetaceans. Considering the number and size of commercial and touristic ports located along its coasts, this protected area is highly impacted by human activities, and especially marine traffic. Fin whales and sperm whales are regularly sighted in the Pelagos Sanctuary, and ship strikes with large vessels are one of the main threats affecting these two species. Mapping hotspots of distribution along main shipping lanes could be an effective conservation tool, as they directly allow locating high risk areas. In this work, we used data collected during summer from 2009 to 2019, along main marine traffic corridors in the central region of Pelagos Sanctuary. Ship strike hotspots have been identified, considering the persistence of distribution hotspots over the 11 years period. Hotspots occurrence has then been predicted over the entire Pelagos Sanctuary area applying Generalized Additive Models, allowing for ship strike risk assessment over the marine protected area. Our results highlighted the recurrence of important areas for both species along shipping lanes characterized by high vessel traffic, identifying regions where to address conservation measures.

@article{
 title = {Fission–fusion dynamics of a pelagic delphinid in the arctic: the white-beaked dolphin (Lagenorhynchus albirostris)},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {Iceland,Lagenorhynchus albirostris,association patterns,social structure,white-beaked dolphin},
 pages = {512-526},
 volume = {16},
 websites = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1749-4877.12524},
 month = {7},
 day = {14},
 id = {62f58e61-f2cf-3548-b658-e43278256cbd},
 created = {2021-10-28T09:50:36.328Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.806Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Delphinids exhibit great variability in their social structures. It is therefore important to document lesser known species, in extreme changing habitats, to compare and contrast mechanisms driving sociality. Here, we describe the first long-term assessment of social structure of white-beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) using a compiled version of SOCPROG 2.8 and an 11-year photo-identification dataset (2002–2013) collected from whale-watching vessels at 2 sites (Faxaflói and Skjálfandi bays) off Iceland. We identified a total of 487 dolphins which are suggested to be part of an open population as shown by the discovery curve obtained analyzing photo-id data. The social analyses were restricted to 35 adults which were sighted on ≥5 different days. The mean residency time of white-beaked dolphins in our 2 study areas was of 95 days (SE = 35.63; 95% CI: 23–171), with the “migration-full interchange” model best describing movements of dolphins in and out of our 2 study sites. Social differentiation in this population was high (Likelihood: S = 0.87, SE = 0.04; r = 0.31, SE = 0.03) indicating diverse, non-random social relationships. Temporal associations best fit the model of “casual acquaintances” against the standardized lagged association rates with the majority of white-beaked dolphin associations being short-term, but with a few long-term across years. Testing for preferred companionship, long-term associations are favored over short-term. In this study, associations among white-beaked dolphins are short-term but with desirably long-term associations fitting into a society with fission–fusion dynamics. This information expands the latitudinal range for which social structure has been described for oceanic dolphin species.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Bertulli, Chiara G. and Rasmussen, Marianne H. and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.12524},
 journal = {Integrative Zoology},
 number = {4}
}

Delphinids exhibit great variability in their social structures. It is therefore important to document lesser known species, in extreme changing habitats, to compare and contrast mechanisms driving sociality. Here, we describe the first long-term assessment of social structure of white-beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) using a compiled version of SOCPROG 2.8 and an 11-year photo-identification dataset (2002–2013) collected from whale-watching vessels at 2 sites (Faxaflói and Skjálfandi bays) off Iceland. We identified a total of 487 dolphins which are suggested to be part of an open population as shown by the discovery curve obtained analyzing photo-id data. The social analyses were restricted to 35 adults which were sighted on ≥5 different days. The mean residency time of white-beaked dolphins in our 2 study areas was of 95 days (SE = 35.63; 95% CI: 23–171), with the “migration-full interchange” model best describing movements of dolphins in and out of our 2 study sites. Social differentiation in this population was high (Likelihood: S = 0.87, SE = 0.04; r = 0.31, SE = 0.03) indicating diverse, non-random social relationships. Temporal associations best fit the model of “casual acquaintances” against the standardized lagged association rates with the majority of white-beaked dolphin associations being short-term, but with a few long-term across years. Testing for preferred companionship, long-term associations are favored over short-term. In this study, associations among white-beaked dolphins are short-term but with desirably long-term associations fitting into a society with fission–fusion dynamics. This information expands the latitudinal range for which social structure has been described for oceanic dolphin species.

@article{
 title = {First live sighting of Deraniyagala's beaked whale ( Mesoplodon hotaula ) or ginkgo‐toothed beaked whale ( Mesoplodon ginkgodens ) in the western Pacific (South China Sea) with preliminary data on coloration, natural markings, and surfacing patterns},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {Deraniyagala's beaked whale,Mesoplodon,South China Sea,ginkgo-toothed beaked whale,marine litter},
 pages = {451-461},
 volume = {16},
 websites = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1749-4877.12507},
 month = {7},
 day = {21},
 id = {6e2bb7ab-896f-3784-84ab-81a44d17bd3a},
 created = {2021-10-28T09:50:36.402Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.819Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Beaked whales represent around 25% of known extant cetacean species, yet they are the least known of all marine mammals. Identification of many Mesoplodon species has relied on examination of a few stranded individuals. Particularly, the ginkgo-toothed beaked whale (Mesoplodon ginkgodens) and Deraniyagala's beaked whale (Mesoplodon hotaula) are among the least-known of beaked whale species, without confirmed sightings of living individuals to date. We present a sighting of 3 free-ranging individuals of M. ginkgodens/hotaula whale from a dedicated marine mammal vessel survey carried out in the South China Sea in April and May 2019. Photographic data (301 photographs) from the sighting were compared to photos of fresh stranded ginkgo-toothed beaked whale and Deraniyagala's beaked whale from both historical and unpublished records. We found that free-ranging M. ginkgodens and M. hotaula individuals can be easily distinguished from other Mesoplodon species due to differences in melon and gape shapes and coloration patterns. However, accurate at-sea differentiation of M. ginkgodens and M. hotaula may not be possible due to high similarity in both coloration and scarring patterns. In addition to our photo-identification data, we collected what we believe to be the first preliminary descriptions of surfacing behavior and diving patterns of one of these species. Finally, the presence of scars possibly caused by fishing gear or marine litter raises concerns about anthropogenic impacts and conservation of these poorly known species.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {ROSSO, Massimiliano and LIN, Mingli and CARUSO, Francesco and LIU, Mingming and DONG, Lijun and BORRONI, Anna and LIN, Wenzhi and TANG, Xiaoming and BOCCONCELLI, Alessandro and LI, Songhai},
 doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.12507},
 journal = {Integrative Zoology},
 number = {4}
}

Beaked whales represent around 25% of known extant cetacean species, yet they are the least known of all marine mammals. Identification of many Mesoplodon species has relied on examination of a few stranded individuals. Particularly, the ginkgo-toothed beaked whale (Mesoplodon ginkgodens) and Deraniyagala's beaked whale (Mesoplodon hotaula) are among the least-known of beaked whale species, without confirmed sightings of living individuals to date. We present a sighting of 3 free-ranging individuals of M. ginkgodens/hotaula whale from a dedicated marine mammal vessel survey carried out in the South China Sea in April and May 2019. Photographic data (301 photographs) from the sighting were compared to photos of fresh stranded ginkgo-toothed beaked whale and Deraniyagala's beaked whale from both historical and unpublished records. We found that free-ranging M. ginkgodens and M. hotaula individuals can be easily distinguished from other Mesoplodon species due to differences in melon and gape shapes and coloration patterns. However, accurate at-sea differentiation of M. ginkgodens and M. hotaula may not be possible due to high similarity in both coloration and scarring patterns. In addition to our photo-identification data, we collected what we believe to be the first preliminary descriptions of surfacing behavior and diving patterns of one of these species. Finally, the presence of scars possibly caused by fishing gear or marine litter raises concerns about anthropogenic impacts and conservation of these poorly known species.

@article{
 title = {Speciation in the deep: genomics and morphology reveal a new species of beaked whale Mesoplodon eueu},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 keywords = {Mesoplodon eueu,Mesoplodon mirus,Ramari's beaked whale,True's beaked whale,biodiversity,taxonomy},
 volume = {288},
 websites = {https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/pdf/10.1098/rspb.2021.1213,https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2021.1213},
 month = {10},
 day = {27},
 id = {5446c916-e3c2-3c22-b31c-97e4d8a51467},
 created = {2021-10-28T09:50:36.403Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.719Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The deep sea has been described as the last major ecological frontier, as much of its biodiversity is yet to be discovered and described. Beaked whales (ziphiids) are among the most visible inhabitants of the deep sea, due to their large size and worldwide distribution, and their taxonomic diversity and much about their natural history remain poorly understood. We combine genomic and morphometric analyses to reveal a new Southern Hemisphere ziphiid species, Ramari's beaked whale, Mesoplodon eueu , whose name is linked to the Indigenous peoples of the lands from which the species holotype and paratypes were recovered. Mitogenome and ddRAD-derived phylogenies demonstrate reciprocally monophyletic divergence between M. eueu and True's beaked whale ( M. mirus ) from the North Atlantic, with which it was previously subsumed. Morphometric analyses of skulls also distinguish the two species. A time-calibrated mitogenome phylogeny and analysis of two nuclear genomes indicate divergence began circa 2 million years ago (Ma), with geneflow ceasing 0.35–0.55 Ma. This is an example of how deep sea biodiversity can be unravelled through increasing international collaboration and genome sequencing of archival specimens. Our consultation and involvement with Indigenous peoples offers a model for broadening the cultural scope of the scientific naming process.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Carroll, Emma L. and McGowen, Michael R. and McCarthy, Morgan L. and Marx, Felix G. and Aguilar, Natacha and Dalebout, Merel L. and Dreyer, Sascha and Gaggiotti, Oscar E. and Hansen, Sabine S. and van Helden, Anton and Onoufriou, Aubrie B. and Baird, Robin W. and Baker, C. Scott and Berrow, Simon and Cholewiak, Danielle and Claridge, Diane and Constantine, Rochelle and Davison, Nicholas J. and Eira, Catarina and Fordyce, R. Ewan and Gatesy, John and Hofmeyr, G. J. Greg and Martín, Vidal and Mead, James G. and Mignucci-Giannoni, Antonio A. and Morin, Phillip A. and Reyes, Cristel and Rogan, Emer and Rosso, Massimiliano and Silva, Mónica A. and Springer, Mark S. and Steel, Debbie and Olsen, Morten Tange},
 doi = {10.1098/rspb.2021.1213},
 journal = {Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences},
 number = {1961}
}

The deep sea has been described as the last major ecological frontier, as much of its biodiversity is yet to be discovered and described. Beaked whales (ziphiids) are among the most visible inhabitants of the deep sea, due to their large size and worldwide distribution, and their taxonomic diversity and much about their natural history remain poorly understood. We combine genomic and morphometric analyses to reveal a new Southern Hemisphere ziphiid species, Ramari's beaked whale, Mesoplodon eueu , whose name is linked to the Indigenous peoples of the lands from which the species holotype and paratypes were recovered. Mitogenome and ddRAD-derived phylogenies demonstrate reciprocally monophyletic divergence between M. eueu and True's beaked whale ( M. mirus ) from the North Atlantic, with which it was previously subsumed. Morphometric analyses of skulls also distinguish the two species. A time-calibrated mitogenome phylogeny and analysis of two nuclear genomes indicate divergence began circa 2 million years ago (Ma), with geneflow ceasing 0.35–0.55 Ma. This is an example of how deep sea biodiversity can be unravelled through increasing international collaboration and genome sequencing of archival specimens. Our consultation and involvement with Indigenous peoples offers a model for broadening the cultural scope of the scientific naming process.

@article{
 title = {Grampus griseus (Mediterranean subpopulation)},
 type = {article},
 year = {2021},
 pages = {10},
 volume = {8235},
 websites = {https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/16378423/190737150},
 id = {d5e8f9af-0b51-337d-8eed-72c4df1f20a0},
 created = {2022-01-31T08:55:43.244Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-01-31T08:55:46.486Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Lanfredi, C., Arcangeli, A., David, L., Holcer, D., Rosso, M., Natoli, A.},
 doi = {https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-3.RLTS.T16378423A190737150.en},
 journal = {The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2021: e.T16378423A190737150}
}

@article{
 title = {Ecophysiological traits of highly mobile large marine predators inferred from nucleic acid derived indices},
 type = {article},
 year = {2020},
 pages = {4752},
 volume = {10},
 websites = {http://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-61769-7},
 month = {12},
 day = {16},
 id = {dc63f366-cedb-39c5-88c4-919433e4d168},
 created = {2020-03-21T09:20:10.006Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.452Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Nucleic acid-derived indices such as RNA/DNA ratios have been successfully applied as ecophysiological indicators to assess growth, nutritional condition and health status in marine organisms given that they provide a measure of tissue protein reserves, which is known to vary depending on changes in the environment. Yet, the use of these biochemical indices on highly mobile large predators is scarce. In this study, we tested the applicability of using nucleic acids to provide insights on the ecophysiological traits of two marine mammal species (common bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales) and explored potential related factors (species, sex, season, and residency pattern), using skin tissue (obtained from biopsy darts) of apparently healthy and adult free-ranging animals. Significantly higher RNA/DNA ratios were obtained for bottlenose dolphins (p < 0.001), and for visitor pilot whales when compared with resident pilot whales (p = 0.001). No significant changes were found between the sexes. Based on the percentile approach, the samples contain individuals in a general good condition (as the 10th percentile is not closer to the mean than the 75th percentile), suggesting that the studied region of Macaronesia may be considered an adequate habitat. The combination of this effective tool with genetic sexing and photographic-identification provided an overall picture of ecosystem health, and although with some limitations and still being a first approach, it has the applicability to be used in other top predators and ecosystems.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Alves, F. and Dromby, M. and Baptista, V. and Ferreira, R. and Correia, A. M. and Weyn, M. and Valente, R. and Froufe, E. and Rosso, M. and Sousa-Pinto, I. and Dinis, A. and Dias, E. and Teodósio, M. A.},
 doi = {10.1038/s41598-020-61769-7},
 journal = {Scientific Reports},
 number = {1}
}

Nucleic acid-derived indices such as RNA/DNA ratios have been successfully applied as ecophysiological indicators to assess growth, nutritional condition and health status in marine organisms given that they provide a measure of tissue protein reserves, which is known to vary depending on changes in the environment. Yet, the use of these biochemical indices on highly mobile large predators is scarce. In this study, we tested the applicability of using nucleic acids to provide insights on the ecophysiological traits of two marine mammal species (common bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales) and explored potential related factors (species, sex, season, and residency pattern), using skin tissue (obtained from biopsy darts) of apparently healthy and adult free-ranging animals. Significantly higher RNA/DNA ratios were obtained for bottlenose dolphins (p < 0.001), and for visitor pilot whales when compared with resident pilot whales (p = 0.001). No significant changes were found between the sexes. Based on the percentile approach, the samples contain individuals in a general good condition (as the 10th percentile is not closer to the mean than the 75th percentile), suggesting that the studied region of Macaronesia may be considered an adequate habitat. The combination of this effective tool with genetic sexing and photographic-identification provided an overall picture of ecosystem health, and although with some limitations and still being a first approach, it has the applicability to be used in other top predators and ecosystems.

@article{
 title = {Distribution of cetacean species at a large scale - Connecting continents with the Macaronesian archipelagos in the eastern North Atlantic},
 type = {article},
 year = {2020},
 keywords = {CETUS Project,cetaceans,distribution patterns,distribution range,effort-based data,high seas,relative abundances},
 pages = {1234-1247},
 volume = {26},
 websites = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ddi.13127},
 month = {10},
 day = {19},
 id = {cc545c03-7202-3d9b-b386-12aa3e1db046},
 created = {2020-10-01T08:28:09.577Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.126Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Aim: To describe distribution patterns and species richness of cetaceans along a wide geographical range using occurrence data coupled with survey effort, from poorly studied oceanic areas. Specific objectives were to compare species richness and relative abundances among sub-regions and to describe the distribution of each species. Location: Eastern North Atlantic. Time period: 2012–2017. Major taxa studied: Cetacea. Methods: Cetacean monitoring was performed by dedicated observers from cargo ships, used as platforms of opportunity, along routes between Iberian Peninsula, Macaronesia and north-western Africa. We mapped relative abundance (encounter rates), survey effort and species richness. We examined the dependence of the number of sightings and species richness on survey effort. The area was divided into sub-regions (according to the Exclusive Economic Zones and international waters), and relative abundances of the eight most frequently sighted species, as well as species richness, were compared among them. In addition, we describe the distribution of each species in relation to sea depth, distance to coast, latitude and longitude. Results: A total of 1,989 sightings were logged, and 26 cetacean species were identified. Species richness and relative abundances of the eight most common species differed substantially between sub-regions. Common and bottlenose dolphins distributed in shallow coastal waters contrasting with the oceanic distribution of Stenella dolphins. Cuvier's beaked whale and minke whale had similar distributions. Pilot and sperm whales were distributed in southern waters. Main conclusions: A considerable amount of survey effort was needed to attain reliable estimates of species richness. In less surveyed areas, species richness and abundance are likely to be underestimated. The offshore waters presented high species richness and several hotspots of cetacean abundance. This work provides new knowledge on cetacean distribution at a large scale in the eastern North Atlantic, relevant to future conservation management.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Correia, Ana Mafalda and Gil, Ágatha and Valente, Raul Fonseca and Rosso, Massimiliano and Sousa-Pinto, Isabel and Pierce, Graham John},
 editor = {Santini, Luca},
 doi = {10.1111/ddi.13127},
 journal = {Diversity and Distributions},
 number = {10}
}

Aim: To describe distribution patterns and species richness of cetaceans along a wide geographical range using occurrence data coupled with survey effort, from poorly studied oceanic areas. Specific objectives were to compare species richness and relative abundances among sub-regions and to describe the distribution of each species. Location: Eastern North Atlantic. Time period: 2012–2017. Major taxa studied: Cetacea. Methods: Cetacean monitoring was performed by dedicated observers from cargo ships, used as platforms of opportunity, along routes between Iberian Peninsula, Macaronesia and north-western Africa. We mapped relative abundance (encounter rates), survey effort and species richness. We examined the dependence of the number of sightings and species richness on survey effort. The area was divided into sub-regions (according to the Exclusive Economic Zones and international waters), and relative abundances of the eight most frequently sighted species, as well as species richness, were compared among them. In addition, we describe the distribution of each species in relation to sea depth, distance to coast, latitude and longitude. Results: A total of 1,989 sightings were logged, and 26 cetacean species were identified. Species richness and relative abundances of the eight most common species differed substantially between sub-regions. Common and bottlenose dolphins distributed in shallow coastal waters contrasting with the oceanic distribution of Stenella dolphins. Cuvier's beaked whale and minke whale had similar distributions. Pilot and sperm whales were distributed in southern waters. Main conclusions: A considerable amount of survey effort was needed to attain reliable estimates of species richness. In less surveyed areas, species richness and abundance are likely to be underestimated. The offshore waters presented high species richness and several hotspots of cetacean abundance. This work provides new knowledge on cetacean distribution at a large scale in the eastern North Atlantic, relevant to future conservation management.

@article{
 title = {Cetaceans under threat in South China sea},
 type = {article},
 year = {2020},
 pages = {1074-1075},
 volume = {368},
 websites = {https://www.sciencemag.org/lookup/doi/10.1126/science.abc7557,https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abc7557},
 month = {6},
 day = {5},
 id = {3defd894-d899-32fc-a038-9bbae8cb6664},
 created = {2020-10-01T08:28:09.656Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.153Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {According to historical whaling and stranding records, the South China Sea is home to more than one-third of extant cetacean species on Earth, all of which are listed in Appendix I or II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Recent data gleaned from the ecological knowledge of local fishers and field surveys add to the evidence that part or all of the South China Sea is an important cetacean area with high species diversity that deserves special conservation attention but has been previously over- looked.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Li, Songhai and Lin, Mingli and Caruso, Francesco and Dong, Lijun and Lin, Wenzhi and Rosso, Massimiliano and Bocconcelli, Alessandro},
 editor = {Sills, Jennifer},
 doi = {10.1126/science.abc7557},
 journal = {Science},
 number = {6495}
}

According to historical whaling and stranding records, the South China Sea is home to more than one-third of extant cetacean species on Earth, all of which are listed in Appendix I or II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Recent data gleaned from the ecological knowledge of local fishers and field surveys add to the evidence that part or all of the South China Sea is an important cetacean area with high species diversity that deserves special conservation attention but has been previously over- looked.

@article{
 title = {The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to sample the blow microbiome of small cetaceans},
 type = {article},
 year = {2020},
 pages = {e0235537},
 volume = {15},
 websites = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0235537,https://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0235537},
 month = {7},
 day = {2},
 id = {a752100e-d50d-3e7a-807a-90483527f5e6},
 created = {2020-10-01T08:28:09.684Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.063Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Recent studies describe the use of UAVs in collecting blow samples from large whales to analyze the microbial and viral community in exhaled air. Unfortunately, attempts to collect blow from small cetaceans have not been successful due to their swimming and diving behavior. In order to overcome these limitations, in this study we investigated the application of a specific sampling tool attached to a UAV to analyze the blow from small cetaceans and their respiratory microbiome. Preliminary trials to set up the sampling tool were conducted on a group of 6 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) under human care, housed at Acquario di Genova, with approximately 1 meter distance between the blowing animal and the tool to obtain suitable samples. The same sampling kit, suspended via a 2 meter rope assembled on a waterproof UAV, flying 3 meters above the animals, was used to sample the blows of 5 wild bottlenose dolphins in the Gulf of Ambracia (Greece) and a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) in the southern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy), to investigate whether this experimental assembly also works for large whale sampling. In order to distinguish between blow-associated microbes and seawater microbes, we pooled 5 seawater samples from the same area where blow samples' collection were carried out. The the respiratory microbiota was assessed by using the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene via Illumina Amplicon Sequencing. The pooled water samples contained more bacterial taxa than the blow samples of both wild animals and the sequenced dolphin maintained under human care. The composition of the bacterial community differed between the water samples and between the blow samples of wild cetaceans and that under human care, but these differences may have been mediated by different microbial communities between seawater and aquarium water. The sperm whale's respiratory microbiome was more similar to the results obtained from wild bottlenose dolphins. Although the number of samples used in this study was limited and sampling and analyses were impaired by several limitations, the results are rather encouraging, as shown by the evident microbial differences between seawater and blow samples, confirmed also by the meta-analysis carried out comparing our results with those obtained in previous studies. Collecting exhaled air from small cetaceans using drones is a challenging process, both logistically and technically. The success in obtaining samples from small cetacean blow in this study in comparison to previous studies is likely due to the distance the sampling kit is suspended from the drone, which reduced the likelihood that the turbulence of the drone propeller interfered with successfully sampling blow, suggested as a factor leading to poor success in previous studies.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Centelleghe, Cinzia and Carraro, Lisa and Gonzalvo, Joan and Rosso, Massimiliano and Esposti, Erika and Gili, Claudia and Bonato, Marco and Pedrotti, Davide and Cardazzo, Barbara and Povinelli, Michele and Mazzariol, Sandro},
 editor = {Caballero, Susana},
 doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0235537},
 journal = {PLOS ONE},
 number = {7}
}

Recent studies describe the use of UAVs in collecting blow samples from large whales to analyze the microbial and viral community in exhaled air. Unfortunately, attempts to collect blow from small cetaceans have not been successful due to their swimming and diving behavior. In order to overcome these limitations, in this study we investigated the application of a specific sampling tool attached to a UAV to analyze the blow from small cetaceans and their respiratory microbiome. Preliminary trials to set up the sampling tool were conducted on a group of 6 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) under human care, housed at Acquario di Genova, with approximately 1 meter distance between the blowing animal and the tool to obtain suitable samples. The same sampling kit, suspended via a 2 meter rope assembled on a waterproof UAV, flying 3 meters above the animals, was used to sample the blows of 5 wild bottlenose dolphins in the Gulf of Ambracia (Greece) and a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) in the southern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy), to investigate whether this experimental assembly also works for large whale sampling. In order to distinguish between blow-associated microbes and seawater microbes, we pooled 5 seawater samples from the same area where blow samples' collection were carried out. The the respiratory microbiota was assessed by using the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene via Illumina Amplicon Sequencing. The pooled water samples contained more bacterial taxa than the blow samples of both wild animals and the sequenced dolphin maintained under human care. The composition of the bacterial community differed between the water samples and between the blow samples of wild cetaceans and that under human care, but these differences may have been mediated by different microbial communities between seawater and aquarium water. The sperm whale's respiratory microbiome was more similar to the results obtained from wild bottlenose dolphins. Although the number of samples used in this study was limited and sampling and analyses were impaired by several limitations, the results are rather encouraging, as shown by the evident microbial differences between seawater and blow samples, confirmed also by the meta-analysis carried out comparing our results with those obtained in previous studies. Collecting exhaled air from small cetaceans using drones is a challenging process, both logistically and technically. The success in obtaining samples from small cetacean blow in this study in comparison to previous studies is likely due to the distance the sampling kit is suspended from the drone, which reduced the likelihood that the turbulence of the drone propeller interfered with successfully sampling blow, suggested as a factor leading to poor success in previous studies.

@article{
 title = {Trends in summer presence of fin whales in the western mediterranean sea Region: New insights from a long-term monitoring program},
 type = {article},
 year = {2020},
 keywords = {Assessment,Distribution,Fin whale,Mediterranean sea,Trends},
 pages = {e10544},
 volume = {8},
 websites = {https://peerj.com/articles/10544},
 month = {12},
 day = {14},
 id = {862629ec-20e3-3cfd-b325-5ef78636be7e},
 created = {2020-12-14T16:36:00.360Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.636Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Background. The Mediterranean subpopulation of fin whale Balaenoptera physalus (Linnaeus, 1758) has recently been listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of threatened species. The species is also listed as species in need of strict protection under the Habitat Directive and is one of the indicators for the assessment of Good Environmental Status under the MSFD. Reference values on population abundance and trends are needed in order to set the threshold values and to assess the conservation status of the population. Methods. Yearly summer monitoring using ferries as platform of opportunity was performed since 2008 within the framework of the FLT Med Network. Data were collected along several fixed transects crossing the Western Mediterranean basin and the Adriatic and Ionian region. Species presence, expressed by density recorded along the sampled transects, was inspected for assessing interannual variability together with group size. Generalized Additive Models were used to describe density trends over a 11 years’ period (2008–2018). A spatial multi-scale approach was used to highlight intra-basin differences in species presence and distribution during the years. Results. Summer presence of fin whales in the western Mediterranean area showed a strong interannual variability, characterized by the alternance of rich and poor years. Small and large groups of fin whales were sighted only during rich years, confirming the favorable feeding condition influencing species presence. Trends highlighted by the GAM can be summarized as positive from 2008 to 2013, and slightly negative from 2014 to 2018. The sub-areas analysis showed a similar pattern, but with a more stable trend during the second period in the Pelagos Sanctuary sub-area, and a negative one in the other two sub-areas. Our findings further confirm the need for an integrated approach foreseeing both, large scale surveys and yearly monitoring at different spatial scales to correct and interpret the basin wide abundance estimates, and to correlate spatial and temporal trends with the ecological and anthropogenic drivers.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Tepsich, Paola and Schettino, Ilaria and Atzori, Fabrizio and Azzolin, Marta and Campana, Ilaria and Carosso, Lara and Cominelli, Simone and Crosti, Roberto and David, Léa and Di-Méglio, Nathalie and Frau, Francesca and Gregorietti, Martina and Mazzucato, Veronica and Monaco, Clara and Moulins, Aurelie and Paraboschi, Miriam and Pellegrino, Giuliana and Rosso, Massimiliano and Roul, Marine and Saintignan, Sébastien and Arcangeli, Antonella},
 doi = {10.7717/peerj.10544},
 journal = {PeerJ}
}

Background. The Mediterranean subpopulation of fin whale Balaenoptera physalus (Linnaeus, 1758) has recently been listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of threatened species. The species is also listed as species in need of strict protection under the Habitat Directive and is one of the indicators for the assessment of Good Environmental Status under the MSFD. Reference values on population abundance and trends are needed in order to set the threshold values and to assess the conservation status of the population. Methods. Yearly summer monitoring using ferries as platform of opportunity was performed since 2008 within the framework of the FLT Med Network. Data were collected along several fixed transects crossing the Western Mediterranean basin and the Adriatic and Ionian region. Species presence, expressed by density recorded along the sampled transects, was inspected for assessing interannual variability together with group size. Generalized Additive Models were used to describe density trends over a 11 years’ period (2008–2018). A spatial multi-scale approach was used to highlight intra-basin differences in species presence and distribution during the years. Results. Summer presence of fin whales in the western Mediterranean area showed a strong interannual variability, characterized by the alternance of rich and poor years. Small and large groups of fin whales were sighted only during rich years, confirming the favorable feeding condition influencing species presence. Trends highlighted by the GAM can be summarized as positive from 2008 to 2013, and slightly negative from 2014 to 2018. The sub-areas analysis showed a similar pattern, but with a more stable trend during the second period in the Pelagos Sanctuary sub-area, and a negative one in the other two sub-areas. Our findings further confirm the need for an integrated approach foreseeing both, large scale surveys and yearly monitoring at different spatial scales to correct and interpret the basin wide abundance estimates, and to correlate spatial and temporal trends with the ecological and anthropogenic drivers.

@article{
 title = {Whale Watching in the Pelagos Sanctuary: Status and Quality Assessment},
 type = {article},
 year = {2020},
 keywords = {cetaceans,pelagos sanctuary,satisfaction analysis,tourism,whale-watching},
 pages = {1-14},
 volume = {7},
 websites = {https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2020.596848/full},
 month = {12},
 day = {3},
 id = {76b4045e-fec8-3872-96fe-eab2547a2da5},
 created = {2020-12-14T16:36:00.448Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.566Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {In 2001 Italy, France, and Principality of Monaco instituted a protected area for marine mammals in northwestern Mediterranean Sea, named the Pelagos Sanctuary. The agreement foresees the commitment by signing parties to manage human activities in the area, with a special mention to whale watching. Whale watching is a form of wildlife tourism which has considerably grown in the last decades. Understanding the profile of whale watchers and their satisfaction toward the activity, is the first step toward a sustainable and effective management of this touristic activity. In this work we provide the first analysis of the whale watching activity in the Pelagos Sanctuary, focusing on commercial whale watching tours departing from Italian harbors in Liguria. We provide a census of the activity and the results of close-ended questionnaires filled by whale watchers during trips in summer 2016 and 2017. The aim of the questionnaires was to understand the level of awareness of experienced and new whale watchers regarding the Pelagos Sanctuary and some conservation initiative going on in the area. Finally, we analyzed the satisfaction level, with the aim of evidencing weakness and strengths of the service offered. Our results evidence a growth in the activity in the last 15 years, with a wider differentiation of offers and impacting a larger area than previously found. Whale watchers in the area come from a variety of countries, demonstrating the importance of the Pelagos as a hot spot for this activity. A high level of satisfaction has been evidenced, with no difference among new and experienced whale watchers. At the same time, more effort is needed to increase awareness of Pelagos and its conservation initiative both at a national and international level. This study provides useful information for the start of an effective management of whale watching in this protected area.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Tepsich, Paola and Borroni, Anna and Zorgno, Margherita and Rosso, Massimiliano and Moulins, Aurélie},
 doi = {10.3389/fmars.2020.596848},
 journal = {Frontiers in Marine Science},
 number = {December}
}

In 2001 Italy, France, and Principality of Monaco instituted a protected area for marine mammals in northwestern Mediterranean Sea, named the Pelagos Sanctuary. The agreement foresees the commitment by signing parties to manage human activities in the area, with a special mention to whale watching. Whale watching is a form of wildlife tourism which has considerably grown in the last decades. Understanding the profile of whale watchers and their satisfaction toward the activity, is the first step toward a sustainable and effective management of this touristic activity. In this work we provide the first analysis of the whale watching activity in the Pelagos Sanctuary, focusing on commercial whale watching tours departing from Italian harbors in Liguria. We provide a census of the activity and the results of close-ended questionnaires filled by whale watchers during trips in summer 2016 and 2017. The aim of the questionnaires was to understand the level of awareness of experienced and new whale watchers regarding the Pelagos Sanctuary and some conservation initiative going on in the area. Finally, we analyzed the satisfaction level, with the aim of evidencing weakness and strengths of the service offered. Our results evidence a growth in the activity in the last 15 years, with a wider differentiation of offers and impacting a larger area than previously found. Whale watchers in the area come from a variety of countries, demonstrating the importance of the Pelagos as a hot spot for this activity. A high level of satisfaction has been evidenced, with no difference among new and experienced whale watchers. At the same time, more effort is needed to increase awareness of Pelagos and its conservation initiative both at a national and international level. This study provides useful information for the start of an effective management of whale watching in this protected area.

@article{
 title = {First assessment of POPs and cytochrome P450 expression in Cuvier’s beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris) skin biopsies from the Mediterranean Sea},
 type = {article},
 year = {2020},
 pages = {21891},
 volume = {10},
 websites = {https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-78962-3,http://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-78962-3},
 month = {12},
 publisher = {Nature Publishing Group UK},
 day = {14},
 id = {c42b784e-7ad7-36f9-84f6-54f70baeb626},
 created = {2020-12-14T16:36:00.465Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.546Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris) is one of the least known cetacean species worldwide. The decreasing population trend and associated threats has led to the IUCN categorising the Mediterranean subpopulation as Vulnerable on the Red List of Threatened Species. This study aimed to investigate for the first time the ecotoxicological status of Cuvier's beaked whale in the NW Mediterranean Sea. The study sampled around the 20% of the individuals belonging to the Ligurian subpopulation, collecting skin biopsies from free-ranging specimens. The levels of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and induction of cytochrome's P450 (CYP1A1 and CYP2B isoforms) were evaluated. Results highlighted that the pattern of concentration for the target contaminants was PCBs > PBDEs and the accumulation values were linked to age and sex, with adult males showing significantly higher levels than juvenile. Concerns raised by the fact that 80% of the individuals had PCB levels above the toxicity threshold for negative physiological effects in marine mammals. Therefore, these findings shed light on this silent and serious threat never assessed in the Mediterranean Cuvier’s beaked whale population, indicating that anthropogenic pressures, including chemical pollution, may represent menaces for the conservation of this species in the Mediterranean Sea.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Baini, Matteo and Panti, Cristina and Fossi, Maria Cristina and Tepsich, Paola and Jiménez, Begoña and Coomber, Frazer and Bartalini, Alice and Muñoz-Arnanz, Juan and Moulins, Aurelie and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 doi = {10.1038/s41598-020-78962-3},
 journal = {Scientific Reports},
 number = {1}
}

The Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris) is one of the least known cetacean species worldwide. The decreasing population trend and associated threats has led to the IUCN categorising the Mediterranean subpopulation as Vulnerable on the Red List of Threatened Species. This study aimed to investigate for the first time the ecotoxicological status of Cuvier's beaked whale in the NW Mediterranean Sea. The study sampled around the 20% of the individuals belonging to the Ligurian subpopulation, collecting skin biopsies from free-ranging specimens. The levels of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and induction of cytochrome's P450 (CYP1A1 and CYP2B isoforms) were evaluated. Results highlighted that the pattern of concentration for the target contaminants was PCBs > PBDEs and the accumulation values were linked to age and sex, with adult males showing significantly higher levels than juvenile. Concerns raised by the fact that 80% of the individuals had PCB levels above the toxicity threshold for negative physiological effects in marine mammals. Therefore, these findings shed light on this silent and serious threat never assessed in the Mediterranean Cuvier’s beaked whale population, indicating that anthropogenic pressures, including chemical pollution, may represent menaces for the conservation of this species in the Mediterranean Sea.

@article{
 title = {A dataset of cetacean occurrences in the Eastern North Atlantic},
 type = {article},
 year = {2019},
 pages = {177},
 volume = {6},
 websites = {http://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-019-0187-2},
 month = {12},
 day = {24},
 id = {b1c06e85-2a19-3305-be99-27bd26bcff55},
 created = {2020-03-21T09:20:50.965Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.478Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The CETUS project is a cetacean monitoring program that takes advantage of cargo ships to undertake survey routes between Continental Portugal, Macaronesian archipelagos and West Africa. From 2012 to 2017, over 50 volunteers participated in the program, actively surveying more than 124.000 km, mostly beyond national jurisdictions in the high seas, for which little or no previous data existed. In total, the collection comprises 3058 georeferenced transect lines and 8913 positions, which are associated with 2833 cetacean sightings, 362 occurrences of other pelagic megafauna, 5260 estimates of marine traffic and 8887 weather observations. This dataset may provide new insights into the distribution of marine mammals in the Eastern North Atlantic and was published following the OBIS-ENV-DATA format (with the most recent biodiversity data standards at the time of writing). Consequently, it may serve as a model for similar visual line transect data collections yet to be published.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Correia, Ana M. and Gandra, Miguel and Liberal, Marcos and Valente, Raul and Gil, Ágatha and Rosso, Massimiliano and Pierce, Graham J. and Sousa-Pinto, Isabel},
 doi = {10.1038/s41597-019-0187-2},
 journal = {Scientific Data},
 number = {1}
}

The CETUS project is a cetacean monitoring program that takes advantage of cargo ships to undertake survey routes between Continental Portugal, Macaronesian archipelagos and West Africa. From 2012 to 2017, over 50 volunteers participated in the program, actively surveying more than 124.000 km, mostly beyond national jurisdictions in the high seas, for which little or no previous data existed. In total, the collection comprises 3058 georeferenced transect lines and 8913 positions, which are associated with 2833 cetacean sightings, 362 occurrences of other pelagic megafauna, 5260 estimates of marine traffic and 8887 weather observations. This dataset may provide new insights into the distribution of marine mammals in the Eastern North Atlantic and was published following the OBIS-ENV-DATA format (with the most recent biodiversity data standards at the time of writing). Consequently, it may serve as a model for similar visual line transect data collections yet to be published.

@article{
 title = { Acoustic recordings of rough-toothed dolphin ( Steno bredanensis ) offshore Eastern Sicily (Mediterranean Sea) },
 type = {article},
 year = {2019},
 pages = {EL286-EL292},
 volume = {146},
 websites = {http://asa.scitation.org/doi/10.1121/1.5126118},
 month = {9},
 id = {8084f72f-c5af-34b3-a017-2c68a8428357},
 created = {2020-03-21T09:21:26.934Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.433Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {© 2019 Acoustical Society of America. Rough-toothed dolphin's abundance and distribution is largely unknown worldwide and evaluation of its conservation status in the Mediterranean Sea is necessary. A rough-toothed dolphin was sighted offshore Eastern Sicily (Mediterranean Sea) in July 2017 and acoustic data were acquired in the same area of Watkins, Tyack, Moore, and Notarbartolo di Sciara [(1987). Mar. Mamm. Sci. 3, 78-82]. An automatic detection algorithm was developed to identify the echolocation clicks recorded within both datasets and a recurrent inter-click interval value was identified during the new encounter. Distinctive whistle classes were also identified with similar contour shapes within both datasets.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Caruso, Francesco and Sciacca, Virginia and Parisi, Ignazio and Viola, Salvatore and de Vincenzi, Giovanni and Bocconcelli, Alessandro and Mooney, T. Aran and Sayigh, Laela and Li, Songhai and Filiciotto, Francesco and Moulins, Aurelie and Tepsich, Paola and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 doi = {10.1121/1.5126118},
 journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America},
 number = {3}
}

© 2019 Acoustical Society of America. Rough-toothed dolphin's abundance and distribution is largely unknown worldwide and evaluation of its conservation status in the Mediterranean Sea is necessary. A rough-toothed dolphin was sighted offshore Eastern Sicily (Mediterranean Sea) in July 2017 and acoustic data were acquired in the same area of Watkins, Tyack, Moore, and Notarbartolo di Sciara [(1987). Mar. Mamm. Sci. 3, 78-82]. An automatic detection algorithm was developed to identify the echolocation clicks recorded within both datasets and a recurrent inter-click interval value was identified during the new encounter. Distinctive whistle classes were also identified with similar contour shapes within both datasets.

@article{
 title = {Distribution and habitat modelling of common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in the eastern North Atlantic},
 type = {article},
 year = {2019},
 keywords = {Cetaceans,Macaronesia,ecological modelling,high seas,spatial distribution,temporal distribution},
 pages = {1443-1457},
 volume = {99},
 websites = {https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S0025315419000249/type/journal_article},
 month = {9},
 day = {6},
 id = {92ec6aac-a164-3318-b275-27cb534f79b9},
 created = {2020-03-21T09:21:51.150Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.573Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The eastern North Atlantic (ENA) has many highly productive areas where several species of cetaceans have been recorded, with the common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) being one of the most frequently sighted species. However, its spatial and temporal distribution in high seas is poorly known. The study presents the results from 5 years of cetacean monitoring in the ENA (2012-2016) aboard cargo ships that follow the routes from Continental Portugal to the Macaronesian archipelagos and north-west Africa. Common dolphin was the most frequently sighted cetacean with 192 occurrences registered on effort and an overall encounter rate of 0.36 sightings/100 nmi. The species was distributed in coastal and offshore waters, but absent from the Canaries and Cape Verde islands. Statistical 'habitat' models were developed to describe and explain the occurrence of sightings of the species: variables affecting detection of dolphins had a small impact and there were clear spatiotemporal distribution patterns, influenced to some degree by environmental variables. Predicted probability of occurrence was highest in coastal waters of continental Portugal and around the Azores. The models, combined with maps of distribution, were useful to identify important areas for the species, which could be the focus of future conservation efforts. Common dolphin presence was related to depth, distance to coast and seamounts, seabed slope, chlorophyll concentration, sea-surface temperature and sea level anomalies; the possible ecological significance of these relationships is explored.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Correia, Ana M. and Gil, Ágatha and Valente, Raul and Rosso, Massimiliano and Pierce, Graham J. and Sousa-Pinto, Isabel},
 doi = {10.1017/S0025315419000249},
 journal = {Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom},
 number = {6}
}

The eastern North Atlantic (ENA) has many highly productive areas where several species of cetaceans have been recorded, with the common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) being one of the most frequently sighted species. However, its spatial and temporal distribution in high seas is poorly known. The study presents the results from 5 years of cetacean monitoring in the ENA (2012-2016) aboard cargo ships that follow the routes from Continental Portugal to the Macaronesian archipelagos and north-west Africa. Common dolphin was the most frequently sighted cetacean with 192 occurrences registered on effort and an overall encounter rate of 0.36 sightings/100 nmi. The species was distributed in coastal and offshore waters, but absent from the Canaries and Cape Verde islands. Statistical 'habitat' models were developed to describe and explain the occurrence of sightings of the species: variables affecting detection of dolphins had a small impact and there were clear spatiotemporal distribution patterns, influenced to some degree by environmental variables. Predicted probability of occurrence was highest in coastal waters of continental Portugal and around the Azores. The models, combined with maps of distribution, were useful to identify important areas for the species, which could be the focus of future conservation efforts. Common dolphin presence was related to depth, distance to coast and seamounts, seabed slope, chlorophyll concentration, sea-surface temperature and sea level anomalies; the possible ecological significance of these relationships is explored.

@article{
 title = {The challenge of habitat modelling for threatened low density species using heterogeneous data: The case of Cuvier's beaked whales in the Mediterranean},
 type = {article},
 year = {2018},
 keywords = {Abundance,Conservation,Correction factor,Cuvier's beaked whales,Density surface modelling,Distribution,Mediterranean sea},
 pages = {128-136},
 volume = {85},
 websites = {https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1470160X17306581},
 month = {2},
 id = {85dd8c09-9cd1-3b4b-8fe8-a1cd6fa8a192},
 created = {2018-02-19T07:42:28.545Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.309Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {The Mediterranean population of Cuvieŕs beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris), a deep-diving cetacean, is genetically distinct from the Atlantic, and subject to a number of conservation threats, in particular underwater noise. It is also cryptic at the surface and relatively rare, so obtain robust knowledge on distribution and abundance presents unique challenges. Here we use multiplatform and multiyear survey data to analyse the distribution and abundance of this species across the Mediterranean Sea. We use a novel approach combining heterogeneous data gathered with different methods to obtain a single density index for the region. A total of 594,996 km of survey effort and 507 sightings of Cuvier's beaked whales, from 1990 to 2016, were pooled together from 24 different sources. Data were divided into twelve major groups according to platform height, speed and sea state. Both availability bias and effective strip width were calculated from the sightings with available perpendicular distance data. This was extrapolated to the rest of the sightings for each of the twelve groups. Habitat preference models were fitted into a GAM framework using counts of groups as a response variable with the effective searched area as an offset. Depth, coefficient of variation of depth, longitude and marine regions (as defined by the International Hydrographic Organization) were identified as important predictors. Predicted abundance of groups per grid cell were multiplied by mean group size to obtain a prediction of the abundance of animals. A total abundance of 5799 (CV = 24.0%) animals was estimated for the whole Mediterranean basin. The Alborán Sea, Ligurian Sea, Hellenic Trench, southern Adriatic Sea and eastern Ionian Sea were identified as being the main hot spots in the region. It is important to urge that the relevant stakeholders incorporate this information in the planning and execution of high risk activities in these high-risk areas.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Cañadas, A. and Aguilar de Soto, N. and Aissi, M. and Arcangeli, A. and Azzolin, M. and B-Nagy, A. and Bearzi, G. and Campana, I. and Chicote, C. and Cotte, C. and Crosti, R. and David, L. and Di Natale, A. and Fortuna, C. and Frantzis, A. and Garcia, P. and Gazo, M. and Gutierrez-Xarxa, R. and Holcer, D. and Laran, S. and Lauriano, G. and Lewis, T. and Moulins, A. and Mussi, B. and Notarbartolo di Sciara, G. and Panigada, S. and Pastor, X. and Politi, E. and Pulcini, M. and Raga, J. A. and Rendell, L. and Rosso, M. and Tepsich, P. and Tomás, J. and Tringali, M. and Roger, Th},
 doi = {10.1016/j.ecolind.2017.10.021},
 journal = {Ecological Indicators}
}

The Mediterranean population of Cuvieŕs beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris), a deep-diving cetacean, is genetically distinct from the Atlantic, and subject to a number of conservation threats, in particular underwater noise. It is also cryptic at the surface and relatively rare, so obtain robust knowledge on distribution and abundance presents unique challenges. Here we use multiplatform and multiyear survey data to analyse the distribution and abundance of this species across the Mediterranean Sea. We use a novel approach combining heterogeneous data gathered with different methods to obtain a single density index for the region. A total of 594,996 km of survey effort and 507 sightings of Cuvier's beaked whales, from 1990 to 2016, were pooled together from 24 different sources. Data were divided into twelve major groups according to platform height, speed and sea state. Both availability bias and effective strip width were calculated from the sightings with available perpendicular distance data. This was extrapolated to the rest of the sightings for each of the twelve groups. Habitat preference models were fitted into a GAM framework using counts of groups as a response variable with the effective searched area as an offset. Depth, coefficient of variation of depth, longitude and marine regions (as defined by the International Hydrographic Organization) were identified as important predictors. Predicted abundance of groups per grid cell were multiplied by mean group size to obtain a prediction of the abundance of animals. A total abundance of 5799 (CV = 24.0%) animals was estimated for the whole Mediterranean basin. The Alborán Sea, Ligurian Sea, Hellenic Trench, southern Adriatic Sea and eastern Ionian Sea were identified as being the main hot spots in the region. It is important to urge that the relevant stakeholders incorporate this information in the planning and execution of high risk activities in these high-risk areas.

@article{
 title = {Fin Whale Presence and Distribution in the Pelagos Sanctuary: Temporal and Spatial Variability Along EUROFLEETS-DIAPICNA project View project REMORA platform View project Fin Whale Presence and Distribution in the Pelagos Sanctuary: Temporal and Spatial V},
 type = {article},
 year = {2017},
 keywords = {Chlorophyll bloom,Conservation,Distribution,Fin whale,Ligurian sea},
 pages = {1-14},
 volume = {1},
 websites = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321906407},
 id = {213063c6-65aa-3430-92e7-1aff2ea3422b},
 created = {2020-10-01T08:28:09.682Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.063Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Data collected during a 5-year monitoring program carried out midst summer along fixed-line transects in the northern Ligurian sea was used to inspect the variability in the presence and distribution of the Mediterranean fin whale in the Pelagos Sanctuary. The systematic and regular sampling design allowed direct yearly and monthly comparisons. The analysis was conducted at different spatial (regional, sub-regional and local) and temporal (yearly-monthly) scales. Species presence and distribution was then related to changes in ecosystem dynamics, namely the magnitude and spreading of the spring bloom, through near-surface chlorophyll a satellite-derived concentrations as a proxy for near-surface phytoplankton biomass. Results indicate strong inter-annual and intra-seasonal variability of species presence at both regional and sub-regional scales, providing new insights into the use of the area by the species. This variability evidences the role of the target species as effective ecosystem sentinels. The local analyses allow the identification of hotspots, some of which are persistent through time and should therefore, be taken into consideration when defining priority areas for conservation actions.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Martins, Ana Maria and Tepsich, Paola and Morgado, Catarina and Martins, Ana and Rosso, Massimiliano and Moulins, Aurélie},
 journal = {International Journal of Marine and Environmental Sciences},
 number = {December}
}

Data collected during a 5-year monitoring program carried out midst summer along fixed-line transects in the northern Ligurian sea was used to inspect the variability in the presence and distribution of the Mediterranean fin whale in the Pelagos Sanctuary. The systematic and regular sampling design allowed direct yearly and monthly comparisons. The analysis was conducted at different spatial (regional, sub-regional and local) and temporal (yearly-monthly) scales. Species presence and distribution was then related to changes in ecosystem dynamics, namely the magnitude and spreading of the spring bloom, through near-surface chlorophyll a satellite-derived concentrations as a proxy for near-surface phytoplankton biomass. Results indicate strong inter-annual and intra-seasonal variability of species presence at both regional and sub-regional scales, providing new insights into the use of the area by the species. This variability evidences the role of the target species as effective ecosystem sentinels. The local analyses allow the identification of hotspots, some of which are persistent through time and should therefore, be taken into consideration when defining priority areas for conservation actions.

@article{
 title = {Sexing free-ranging adult Cuvier's beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris) using natural marking thresholds and pigmentation patterns},
 type = {article},
 year = {2016},
 keywords = {GLM,Ziphius cavirostris,beaked whales,cluster analysis,natural marking,pigmentation patterns,sexual coercion,sexual dimorphism},
 pages = {879-890},
 volume = {97},
 websites = {https://academic.oup.com/jmammal/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/jmammal/gyw033},
 month = {6},
 day = {9},
 id = {1e967049-31cb-3b49-9812-86c1db86d028},
 created = {2018-02-19T07:33:32.903Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.704Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Sex identification of adult cetaceans is an important ecological parameter that should be incorporated into studies such as population dynamics and animal behavior. In Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris), sex determination may be achieved through genetics, observation of genitals, the presence/absence of erupted teeth, and calf association. However, these features are difficult to ascertain due to the shy behavior of this species. Therefore, this study aimed to create a robust sex identification method using only external characteristics. Particularly, this work analyzed pigmentation patterns and levels of natural marks from adult individuals of known sex in order to identify gender differences, using frequency analysis and generalized linear models. Photographic captures of 73 free-ranging animals were utilized. The frequencies of the individual pigmentation patterns were found to be sex dependent. The 63% of the animals could be classified into either a "soft" or "sharp" pigmentation cluster. The "soft" cluster was only displayed by females, while the "sharp" cluster was present in both the sexes. However, the model selection process indicated that natural marking is the best determinative factor for sex classification. The density of the visible intraspecific natural marks was found to differ between the sexes (P value < 0.001) and was incorporated as a predictor variable into several candidate models. All candidate models had a high predictive power (mean area under the curve 0.973) and correctly predicted the sex, by means of a density threshold value, in 85-90% of the analyzed animals. The density threshold ranged from 4.1% to 6.4% according to the different body area analyzed. These density threshold values represent a robust post hoc sexing method to classify individuals to sex from opportunistic photos in the absence of other sexing methods.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Coomber, Frazer and Moulins, Aurelie and Tepsich, Paola and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 doi = {10.1093/jmammal/gyw033},
 journal = {Journal of Mammalogy},
 number = {3}
}

Sex identification of adult cetaceans is an important ecological parameter that should be incorporated into studies such as population dynamics and animal behavior. In Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris), sex determination may be achieved through genetics, observation of genitals, the presence/absence of erupted teeth, and calf association. However, these features are difficult to ascertain due to the shy behavior of this species. Therefore, this study aimed to create a robust sex identification method using only external characteristics. Particularly, this work analyzed pigmentation patterns and levels of natural marks from adult individuals of known sex in order to identify gender differences, using frequency analysis and generalized linear models. Photographic captures of 73 free-ranging animals were utilized. The frequencies of the individual pigmentation patterns were found to be sex dependent. The 63% of the animals could be classified into either a "soft" or "sharp" pigmentation cluster. The "soft" cluster was only displayed by females, while the "sharp" cluster was present in both the sexes. However, the model selection process indicated that natural marking is the best determinative factor for sex classification. The density of the visible intraspecific natural marks was found to differ between the sexes (P value < 0.001) and was incorporated as a predictor variable into several candidate models. All candidate models had a high predictive power (mean area under the curve 0.973) and correctly predicted the sex, by means of a density threshold value, in 85-90% of the analyzed animals. The density threshold ranged from 4.1% to 6.4% according to the different body area analyzed. These density threshold values represent a robust post hoc sexing method to classify individuals to sex from opportunistic photos in the absence of other sexing methods.

@article{
 title = {An assessment of the natural marking patterns used for photo-identification of common minke whales and white-beaked dolphins in Icelandic waters},
 type = {article},
 year = {2016},
 keywords = {Balaenoptera acutorostrata,Lagenorhynchus albirostris,common minke whale,mark rate,natural mark,photo-identification,white-beaked dolphin},
 pages = {807-819},
 volume = {96},
 websites = {https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S0025315415000284/type/journal_article},
 month = {6},
 day = {22},
 id = {b2936020-43ac-3256-8f65-a558de98aebd},
 created = {2018-02-19T07:33:32.987Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.740Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Natural marks occurring in cetaceans are used to measure population parameters, social structure and movements. However, the changeable nature of these marks can originate bias in these estimates. The aim of this work was to calculate abundance and prevalence of 28 mark types observed in common minke whales and white-beaked dolphins photographed in Icelandic waters for 11 years (2002-2013) in order to identify reliable markings which could be suitable for capture-mark-recapture studies. In the common minke whale subsample the most prevalent occurring marks were cookie-cutter shark bite, notch and lamprey bite, and herpes-like lesions and blisters were the most abundant. White-beaked dolphins had notch, fin patches and fine scrape as the most prevalent, and black mark and fine scrape were the most abundant. Loss and gain rates were also estimated resulting in eight mark types with no losses in common minke whales including fin outline and injury marks. In white-beaked dolphins there were 13 mark types with null loss rate among which there were notch, distinct notch and amputation. Our findings confirm that fin and injury marks are among the most accurate features to use for capture-mark-recapture studies as noted for other cetacean species. We also suggest including cookie-cutter shark bites for common minke whales and fin patches for white-beaked dolphins due to their low loss rate. These two mark types were amongst the most prevalent in both species, so their addition will be pivotal in increasing the power of analysis conducted using photo-identification data obtaining more accurate population estimates.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Bertulli, Chiara G. and Rasmussen, Marianne H. and Rosso, Massimiliano},
 doi = {10.1017/S0025315415000284},
 journal = {Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom},
 number = {4}
}

Natural marks occurring in cetaceans are used to measure population parameters, social structure and movements. However, the changeable nature of these marks can originate bias in these estimates. The aim of this work was to calculate abundance and prevalence of 28 mark types observed in common minke whales and white-beaked dolphins photographed in Icelandic waters for 11 years (2002-2013) in order to identify reliable markings which could be suitable for capture-mark-recapture studies. In the common minke whale subsample the most prevalent occurring marks were cookie-cutter shark bite, notch and lamprey bite, and herpes-like lesions and blisters were the most abundant. White-beaked dolphins had notch, fin patches and fine scrape as the most prevalent, and black mark and fine scrape were the most abundant. Loss and gain rates were also estimated resulting in eight mark types with no losses in common minke whales including fin outline and injury marks. In white-beaked dolphins there were 13 mark types with null loss rate among which there were notch, distinct notch and amputation. Our findings confirm that fin and injury marks are among the most accurate features to use for capture-mark-recapture studies as noted for other cetacean species. We also suggest including cookie-cutter shark bites for common minke whales and fin patches for white-beaked dolphins due to their low loss rate. These two mark types were amongst the most prevalent in both species, so their addition will be pivotal in increasing the power of analysis conducted using photo-identification data obtaining more accurate population estimates.

@article{
 title = {Seasonal group characteristics and occurrence patterns of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in Xiamen Bay, Fujian Province, China},
 type = {article},
 year = {2016},
 keywords = {Sousa chinensis,Xiamen Bay,group characteristics,occurrence pattern,seasonal variation},
 pages = {1026-1032},
 volume = {97},
 websites = {https://academic.oup.com/jmammal/article/97/4/1026/1751370},
 month = {7},
 day = {25},
 id = {cf231f3c-3a4f-3c73-894e-7f5bd768a198},
 created = {2018-02-19T07:33:34.892Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.369Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Monthly field surveys were conducted between August 2010 and July 2015 to explore seasonal group characteristics and occurrence patterns of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in Xiamen Bay, China. Dolphins formed larger groups in winter and spring (dry seasons) than in summer and autumn (wet seasons; U = 1,564.00, P < 0.001). Sighting encounter rates were higher during the wet season than during the dry season (U = 181.00, P < 0.001), while individual encounter rates were not significantly different between seasons (F = 0.494, d.f. = 3, P = 0.688). Dolphin sightings and the foraging events were mainly found in inner harbors (Western Harbour and Tongan Bay) during the dry seasons and in peripheral areas (Jiulong River Estuary, Wuyu, and Dadeng-Xiaodeng) during the wet seasons. Seasonal occurrence patterns may be associated with the seasonal prey shifts between these different environments.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Wang, Xianyan and Wu, Fuxing and Turvey, Samuel T. and Rosso, Massimiliano and Zhu, Qian},
 doi = {10.1093/jmammal/gyw002},
 journal = {Journal of Mammalogy},
 number = {4}
}

Monthly field surveys were conducted between August 2010 and July 2015 to explore seasonal group characteristics and occurrence patterns of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in Xiamen Bay, China. Dolphins formed larger groups in winter and spring (dry seasons) than in summer and autumn (wet seasons; U = 1,564.00, P < 0.001). Sighting encounter rates were higher during the wet season than during the dry season (U = 181.00, P < 0.001), while individual encounter rates were not significantly different between seasons (F = 0.494, d.f. = 3, P = 0.688). Dolphin sightings and the foraging events were mainly found in inner harbors (Western Harbour and Tongan Bay) during the dry seasons and in peripheral areas (Jiulong River Estuary, Wuyu, and Dadeng-Xiaodeng) during the wet seasons. Seasonal occurrence patterns may be associated with the seasonal prey shifts between these different environments.

@article{
 title = {Fin whale seasonal trends in the Pelagos Sanctuary, Mediterranean Sea},
 type = {article},
 year = {2016},
 keywords = {Ligurian Sea,Pelagos Sanctuary,fin whale,monitoring,platforms of opportunity,seasonal trends},
 pages = {490-499},
 volume = {80},
 websites = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jwmg.1027},
 month = {4},
 day = {24},
 id = {63cfdc0b-0e4d-3a61-844a-e9f71be975e5},
 created = {2018-02-19T07:42:27.913Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:37.350Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Since 2009, a cetacean presence and distribution long-term monitoring study has been ongoing in the Pelagos Sanctuary, a pelagic marine protected area located in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea. One of the objectives of this study is to assess trends in cetacean presence and distribution to achieve good environmental status (GES) of pelagic marine waters. We assessed the density variability of the fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Pelagos Sanctuary. We used data collected during summer months (Jun-Sep) from 2009 to 2013, along 2 fixed transects crossing the Pelagos Sanctuary, using ferries as platforms of opportunity. We compared 2 un-corrected indexes: the linear encounter rate and density index, computed applying distance sampling methodology to select the most precise method. We also evaluated the effect of environmental covariates (e.g., platform height, Beaufort sea state, wind speed and direction, cloud cover and rain, longitude, latitude) on abundance and density estimation. Finally, we defined an unbiased index and used it to analyze the temporal and spatial variability of fin whale density in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Fin whale density along the 2 transects varied on a yearly basis, with a peak in 2012 and 2013. Variability also occurred on a monthly basis, with a peak during the first half of the season. A longitudinal and a depth gradient were also evident, confirming differences in species displacement in the area. These results are consistent with previous studies, and update current knowledge of species presence in the area. The protocol tested in this work can be easily applied to the other cetacean species inhabiting the Pelagos Sanctuary providing a novel and cost-effective method to assess long-term trends in cetacean distribution and detect incipient changes in species density.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Cominelli, Simone and Moulins, Aurelie and Rosso, Massimiliano and Tepsich, Paola},
 doi = {10.1002/jwmg.1027},
 journal = {The Journal of Wildlife Management},
 number = {3}
}

Since 2009, a cetacean presence and distribution long-term monitoring study has been ongoing in the Pelagos Sanctuary, a pelagic marine protected area located in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea. One of the objectives of this study is to assess trends in cetacean presence and distribution to achieve good environmental status (GES) of pelagic marine waters. We assessed the density variability of the fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Pelagos Sanctuary. We used data collected during summer months (Jun-Sep) from 2009 to 2013, along 2 fixed transects crossing the Pelagos Sanctuary, using ferries as platforms of opportunity. We compared 2 un-corrected indexes: the linear encounter rate and density index, computed applying distance sampling methodology to select the most precise method. We also evaluated the effect of environmental covariates (e.g., platform height, Beaufort sea state, wind speed and direction, cloud cover and rain, longitude, latitude) on abundance and density estimation. Finally, we defined an unbiased index and used it to analyze the temporal and spatial variability of fin whale density in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Fin whale density along the 2 transects varied on a yearly basis, with a peak in 2012 and 2013. Variability also occurred on a monthly basis, with a peak during the first half of the season. A longitudinal and a depth gradient were also evident, confirming differences in species displacement in the area. These results are consistent with previous studies, and update current knowledge of species presence in the area. The protocol tested in this work can be easily applied to the other cetacean species inhabiting the Pelagos Sanctuary providing a novel and cost-effective method to assess long-term trends in cetacean distribution and detect incipient changes in species density.

@inbook{
 type = {inbook},
 year = {2016},
 keywords = {Abundance,Distribution,Grampus griseus,Ligurian Sea,Niche partitioning,Population structure,Risso's dolphin,Trend},
 pages = {205-232},
 volume = {75},
 websites = {https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0065288116300141},
 id = {05907d07-d742-396a-af1e-6f8eb6c200a1},
 created = {2018-02-19T07:42:28.340Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.921Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {This paper provides a summary of 25 years of research on Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in the western Ligurian Sea. Seasonal variations in abundance, distribution and habitat use were observed. Photographic mark–recapture methods provided a population size estimate for the period from 1998 to 2012, of about 100 individuals (95% CI of 60–220 individuals). The same methods detected a decline in population size from an average of about 120–150 from 2000 to 2005, to an average of 70–100 during 2010 to 2014. Species occurrence appeared to be significantly decreasing in coastal and continental slope areas, while it seemed to be stable in the most pelagic area. In addition, a dramatic change was observed in the local primary production, which was analysed based on time series of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll data from 1990 to 2014. Based on fisheries landings, there may have been a general decrease in fishery productivity, both in the western Ligurian Sea and in adjacent regions. Environmental variability, depletion of resources by fisheries and possibly interspecies competition may all have contributed to cause changes in Risso's dolphin habitat use and occurrence in the western Ligurian Sea.},
 bibtype = {inbook},
 author = {Azzellino, A. and Airoldi, S. and Gaspari, S. and Lanfredi, C. and Moulins, A. and Podestà, M. and Rosso, M. and Tepsich, P.},
 doi = {10.1016/bs.amb.2016.08.003},
 chapter = {Risso's Dolphin, Grampus griseus, in the Western Ligurian Sea: Trends in Population Size and Habitat Use},
 title = {Advances in Marine Biology}
}

This paper provides a summary of 25 years of research on Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in the western Ligurian Sea. Seasonal variations in abundance, distribution and habitat use were observed. Photographic mark–recapture methods provided a population size estimate for the period from 1998 to 2012, of about 100 individuals (95% CI of 60–220 individuals). The same methods detected a decline in population size from an average of about 120–150 from 2000 to 2005, to an average of 70–100 during 2010 to 2014. Species occurrence appeared to be significantly decreasing in coastal and continental slope areas, while it seemed to be stable in the most pelagic area. In addition, a dramatic change was observed in the local primary production, which was analysed based on time series of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll data from 1990 to 2014. Based on fisheries landings, there may have been a general decrease in fishery productivity, both in the western Ligurian Sea and in adjacent regions. Environmental variability, depletion of resources by fisheries and possibly interspecies competition may all have contributed to cause changes in Risso's dolphin habitat use and occurrence in the western Ligurian Sea.

@inbook{
 type = {inbook},
 year = {2016},
 keywords = {Atypical mass strandings,Cuvier's beaked whale,Distribution,Habitat,Mediterranean Sea,Military sonar,Threats,Ziphius cavirostris},
 pages = {103-140},
 volume = {75},
 websites = {https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0065288116300116},
 id = {31e1d0bd-3d79-3f1a-92fc-7375c2e06460},
 created = {2018-02-19T07:42:28.363Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.838Z},
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 starred = {false},
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 abstract = {Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris G. Cuvier, 1823) is the only beaked whale species commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea. Until recently, species presence in this area was only inferred from stranding events. Dedicated cetacean surveys have increased our knowledge of the distribution of Cuvier's beaked whales, even though many areas still remain unexplored. Here, we present an updated analysis of available sighting and stranding data, focusing on the atypical mass strandings that have occurred in the Mediterranean Sea since 1963. We describe in detail the five more recent events (2006–14), highlighting their relationship with naval exercises that used mid-frequency active sonar. The distribution of the species is apparently characterized by areas of high density where animals seem to be relatively abundant, including the Alborán Sea, Ligurian Sea, Central Tyrrhenian Sea, southern Adriatic Sea and the Hellenic Trench, but other such areas may exist where little or no survey work has been conducted. Population size has been estimated for the Alborán and Ligurian seas. Habitat modelling studies for those areas, confirmed the species preference for the continental slope and its particular association with submarine canyons, as has also been found to be the case in other areas of the world. The application of results from habitat modelling to areas different from their calibration sites is proposed as a management tool for minimizing the potential impacts of human activities at sea. Military sonar is known worldwide as a threat for this species and is suggested to be a major threat for Cuvier's beaked whale in the Mediterranean Sea.},
 bibtype = {inbook},
 author = {Podestà, M. and Azzellino, A. and Cañadas, A. and Frantzis, A. and Moulins, A. and Rosso, M. and Tepsich, P. and Lanfredi, C.},
 doi = {10.1016/bs.amb.2016.07.007},
 chapter = {Cuvier's Beaked Whale, Ziphius cavirostris, Distribution and Occurrence in the Mediterranean Sea: High-Use Areas and Conservation Threats},
 title = {Advances in Marine Biology}
}

Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris G. Cuvier, 1823) is the only beaked whale species commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea. Until recently, species presence in this area was only inferred from stranding events. Dedicated cetacean surveys have increased our knowledge of the distribution of Cuvier's beaked whales, even though many areas still remain unexplored. Here, we present an updated analysis of available sighting and stranding data, focusing on the atypical mass strandings that have occurred in the Mediterranean Sea since 1963. We describe in detail the five more recent events (2006–14), highlighting their relationship with naval exercises that used mid-frequency active sonar. The distribution of the species is apparently characterized by areas of high density where animals seem to be relatively abundant, including the Alborán Sea, Ligurian Sea, Central Tyrrhenian Sea, southern Adriatic Sea and the Hellenic Trench, but other such areas may exist where little or no survey work has been conducted. Population size has been estimated for the Alborán and Ligurian seas. Habitat modelling studies for those areas, confirmed the species preference for the continental slope and its particular association with submarine canyons, as has also been found to be the case in other areas of the world. The application of results from habitat modelling to areas different from their calibration sites is proposed as a management tool for minimizing the potential impacts of human activities at sea. Military sonar is known worldwide as a threat for this species and is suggested to be a major threat for Cuvier's beaked whale in the Mediterranean Sea.

@article{
 title = {Description of the vessel traffic within the north Pelagos Sanctuary: Inputs for Marine Spatial Planning and management implications within an existing international Marine Protected Area},
 type = {article},
 year = {2016},
 keywords = {Anthropogenic impacts,Automatic Identification System,Cetacean threats,Marine Spatial Planning,Marine traffic,Pelagos Sanctuary},
 pages = {102-113},
 volume = {69},
 websites = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2016.04.013,https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0308597X16301853},
 month = {7},
 publisher = {Elsevier},
 id = {29b6b4d0-30b7-3113-bfcd-5a789d67dfaa},
 created = {2020-10-01T08:28:09.692Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2022-03-23T10:11:36.993Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {International shipping, although considered a safe and environment-friendly form of transportation, has many direct and indirect impacts on cetaceans in many ways, particularly in the Mediterranean Sea, one of the world's busiest waterways. An AIS receiver located at 44.30 °N and 8.45 °E, operating between 3 May 2013 and 31 October 2014, provided a detailed description of the distribution, number, type and operation of vessels within the Pelagos Sanctuary, an international protected area dedicated to the conservation of marine mammals. A total of 3,757,587 km of vessel traffic was recorded from 82,831 transits by 4205 distinct vessels. The spatial and temporal distribution of traffic was not uniform and dependent on vessel type (0.00<r<0.7); the level of shipping differed spatially between day and night. Passenger vessel traffic was predominant, with 20,853 transits totalling 1,385,361 km, followed by cargo (12,384 transits totalling 1,427,681 km). Transit speed significantly differed amongst vessel types (F=12621, d.f.=5, p-value<0.0001) with passenger vessels the fastest (mean 15.47±4.40 kn). Hazardous cargo transits accounted for 435,116 km. Vessels within the sanctuary navigated under the flags of 90 different states, in variable proportion depending on vessel type (X2=1231, d.f.=10, p-value<0.0001). The data presented in this study on high density shipping corridors and hazardous cargo supplies information for the identification of areas at higher risk from shipping. This data once integrated with available ecological data, can be used to inform ecosystem based management within a Marine Spatial Planning framework.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Coomber, Frazer Guy and D’Incà, Massimo and Rosso, Massimiliano and Tepsich, Paola and Notarbartolo di Sciara, Giuseppe and Moulins, Aurélie},
 doi = {10.1016/j.marpol.2016.04.013},
 journal = {Marine Policy}
}

International shipping, although considered a safe and environment-friendly form of transportation, has many direct and indirect impacts on cetaceans in many ways, particularly in the Mediterranean Sea, one of the world's busiest waterways. An AIS receiver located at 44.30 °N and 8.45 °E, operating between 3 May 2013 and 31 October 2014, provided a detailed description of the distribution, number, type and operation of vessels within the Pelagos Sanctuary, an international protected area dedicated to the conservation of marine mammals. A total of 3,757,587 km of vessel traffic was recorded from 82,831 transits by 4205 distinct vessels. The spatial and temporal distribution of traffic was not uniform and dependent on vessel type (0.00

@article{
 title = {Pilot study to assess the utility of ddRAD sequencing in identifying species-specific and shared SNPs among Blainville’s (<i>Mesoplodon densirostris</i>) and Cuvier’s (<i>Ziphius cavirostris</i>) beaked whales},
 type = {article},
 year = {2016},
 id = {b7c1629d-5813-351e-ac95-0dabb89bd5c5},
 created = {2020-10-01T08:28:09.695Z},
 file_attached = {true},
 profile_id = {30d86b87-e54c-3f31-8703-02f91fc80888},
 last_modified = {2021-10-28T09:58:46.768Z},
 read = {false},
 starred = {false},
 authored = {true},
 confirmed = {true},
 hidden = {false},
 private_publication = {false},
 abstract = {Restriction site-associated DNA (RAD) sequencing has become a popular approach to genotyping non-model organisms for ecological and evolutionary studies. However, there is difficulty in predicting how many variable loci will be recovered for a given protocol, combination of restriction enzymes and/or size selection criteria. Here we undertake a pilot study of a double digest RAD (ddRAD) protocol in Blainville’s and Cuvier’s beaked whales. Four samples from each species were run, with all samples from Blainville’s coming from El Hierro, Canary Islands, and the Cuvier’s samples coming from the Canary Islands, Scotland and the Mediterranean. The pilot study produced 9.2M quality controlled reads for the Blainville’s and 16.4M quality controlled reads for the Cuvier’s beaked whales. After loci construction and filtering in program STACKS, this produced 8143 variable RAD loci for Blainville’s and 14095 variable RAD loci for Cuvier’s beaked whales at moderate depths (20x). The higher variability in Cuvier´s beaked whales is probably due to the difference in sequencing success between the species and the broader geographic range of the Cuvier’s compared with the Blainville’s samples. In addition, we analysed the data using PYRAD to identify loci in common across the two species; this revealed 9666 loci at 20x depth in common between at least one sample per species.},
 bibtype = {article},
 author = {Carroll, Emma L. and Reyes, Cristel and Gaggiotti, Oscar E. and Olsen, Morten Tange and Maaholm, David Jasper and Rosso, Massimiliano and Davison, Nicholas J. and Martín, Vidal and Schiavi, Agustina and Aguilar de Soto, Natacha},
 doi = {10.13140/RG.2.1.2286.5527},
 journal = {International Whaling Commission},
 number = {July}
}