Priorities for ecological research on cetaceans in the Galápagos Islands

Research on cetaceans in the Galápagos Islands highlights critical knowledge gaps that hinder conservation efforts. The study identifies five key research priorities—spatiotemporal occurrence, population assessment, health assessment, social ecology, and trophic ecology—to better understand and protect the 23 cetacean species present, including nine dolphins, one sperm whale, and three baleen whales. While coastal and oceanic habitats support these species year-round or seasonally, research remains sporadic and underfunded. The study recommends integrated sampling protocols, open data repositories, and citizen science initiatives (e.g., cruise ships and whale-watching tours) to optimize data collection despite logistical challenges. These efforts aim to advance ecological understanding of marine megafauna, their role in connectivity, and climate change mitigation, while informing conservation strategies for the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Palacios, D. M., & Cantor, M. (2023). Priorities for ecological research on cetaceans in the Galápagos Islands. Frontiers in Marine Science, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2023.1084057