Parental care behavior in the Guiana dolphin, Sotalia guianensis (Cetacea: Delphinidae), in Ilha Grande Bay, southeastern Brazil

Research reveals that the Guiana dolphin, Sotalia guianensis, exhibits high-intensity parental care, particularly in larger groups and during travel. This behavior likely maximizes hydrodynamic efficiency while minimizing risks, with feeding dynamics showing a more random pattern compared to other states. Calves receive significantly more intense care than juveniles, suggesting potential parent-offspring conflict. The study, conducted in Ilha Grande Bay, southeastern Brazil, quantified parental care intensity, examined its influence on behavioral states and group size, and compared care levels between calves and juveniles using observational data.

Tardin, R. H. O., Espécie, M. A., Lodi, L., & Simão, S. M. (2013). Parental care behavior in the Guiana dolphin, Sotalia guianensis (Cetacea: Delphinidae), in Ilha Grande Bay, southeastern Brazil. Zoologia (Curitiba), 30(1), 15–23. https://doi.org/10.1590/s1984-46702013000100002