Modeling the distribution of a poorly known cetacean: insights for the conservation of the melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra)

• Grant number: 23/17132-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: September 01, 2024
• End date: July 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Ecology
• Principal Investigator: Erika Hingst-Zaher
• Grantee: Luiza Toyama Cardoso de Souza
• Host Institution: Instituto Butantan. Secretaria da Saúde (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Cetaceans are marine megafauna animals, and many of their species exhibit broad geographic distribution. Peponocephala electra is a medium-sized delphinid with poorly understood habits and distribution, complicating the determination of its conservation status and necessary management for that. The proposed project aims to expand knowledge about this species through ecological niche modeling, delineating the most important aspects for its occurrence. Analyses will be conducted using the Maxent package in R, based on coordinates from previous sightings, to predict habitat use by other, as yet unknown, populations of the same species. It is hypothesized that bathymetry is a highly relevant factor for distribution, given that the species forages through deep dives in the mesopelagic zone. The goal is to better understand the environmental metrics to which the species is sensitive and predict its distribution in climate change contexts. Additionally, the geographic distribution map generated by the model will be compared to maps of anthropogenic impacts on the ocean, such as sonar activity, industrial fishing, and maritime traffic, to identify potential spatial overlaps that may pose threats to the species' conservation. Consequently, this will provide initial data for future research and more accurate assessments of the conservation status of Peponocephala electra.