Spatial patterns of shark-inflicted injuries on coastal bottlenose dolphins in the Mesoamerican Reef System

Researchers have documented significant spatial variation in shark-inflicted injuries among coastal bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) across the Mesoamerican Reef System, with notable differences in wound prevalence between sites. Analysis of 533 photo-identified dolphins from Mexico, Belize, and Honduras revealed that 16 individuals bore scars consistent with attacks by large requiem sharks (Carcharhinidae), while two exhibited distinct crater wounds likely caused by cookiecutter sharks (Isistius spp.). Placencia (Mexico) and Ascención Bay recorded the highest injury prevalence, whereas Turneffe Atoll and Drowned Cayes (Belize) showed minimal impact. The findings suggest that predation risk may play a crucial role in shaping dolphin ecology in this region, highlighting the need for further investigation to understand these dynamics.

Castelblanco-Martínez, D. N., Ramos, E. A., Kiszka, J. J., Blanco-Parra, M. P., Padilla-Saldívar, J. A., García, J., & Niño-Torres, C. A. (2021). Spatial patterns of shark-inflicted injuries on coastal bottlenose dolphins in the Mesoamerican Reef System. Studies on Neotropical Fauna and Environment, 57(3), 332–338. https://doi.org/10.1080/01650521.2021.1877391