Faecal analysis of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in Península Valdés calving ground, Argentina:Calanus australis, a key prey species

Researchers have identified Calanus australis copepodite stage 5 as the primary prey for southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) during their calving season in Península Valdés, Argentina. This discovery highlights the energy-rich lipid content of this developmental stage, which is likely a key factor attracting whales to dense patches of C. australis. The study used microscopic analysis of whale faeces—collected from both stranded and live individuals—to characterize prey remains, including copepods, other zooplankton, and diatoms. Comparative analyses with preserved specimens, conducted using scanning electron and confocal laser microscopy, confirmed the dominance of C. australis copepodites in the diet. This finding provides critical insights into the trophic ecology of southern right whales and their reliance on specific planktonic resources during a crucial life stage.

D’Agostino, V. C., Hoffmeyer, M. S., & Degrati, M. (2015). Faecal analysis of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in Península Valdés calving ground, Argentina:Calanus australis, a key prey species. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, 96(4), 859–868. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0025315415001897