An approach to using stranding data to monitor cetacean population trends and guide conservation strategies

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Conflicts of Interest

Identified Weaknesses

Rating Explanation

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Paper Summary

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Dead Whales Tell Tales: Strandings Suggest Some Cetaceans Face Rising Threats in Scotland (But Data Has Limitations)

This study uses 30 years of stranding data from Scotland to analyze trends in cetacean populations, but acknowledges limitations due to the opportunistic nature of stranding reports. The study shows increasing stranding rates for all groups, with exponential increases for baleen whales and common dolphins, suggesting they may face heightened pressures, especially juveniles. Distinct seasonal and spatial stranding patterns emerged, offering potential insights into vulnerable life stages and areas needing conservation focus.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

None identified. Data collection was carried out by the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS) with funding from the Scottish Government.

Identified Weaknesses

Opportunistic Data

Stranding data is opportunistic and thus not a perfect representation of true mortality rates, as many factors influence whether a dead animal is found and reported. The study acknowledges this limitation and highlights that distinguishing between biological trends and artifacts of data collection can be difficult.

Lack of Effort Data

No data on recorder effort were collected. This makes it difficult to account for changes in recording methodology and public awareness over time, which may have influenced reported stranding rates. Increased awareness and reporting could lead to higher counts independent of actual population changes.

Broad Ecological Groups

Species were grouped based on broad ecological similarities which makes trends difficult to discern between species with varied threats and life history traits within the groupings.

Limited Causal Inference

The study identifies increasing trends and spatiotemporal patterns but does not definitively establish underlying causes. Further research is needed to link observed patterns to specific threats such as bycatch, entanglement, or noise pollution.

Rating Explanation

The study provides valuable insights into long-term trends in cetacean strandings but is limited by the inherent biases of opportunistic data and the lack of effort correction. While the analysis identifies species of concern and highlights potential areas for conservation focus, the inability to conclusively link patterns to specific threats and the grouping of species with varying life histories and risks prevents a higher rating.

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