Ocean Health Home

Project Managers

• Marilyn Mazzoil
• Stephen McCullough
• Gregory Bossart, D.V.M., Ph.D.

Project Team

• Sarah Bechdel
• Elisabeth Howells
• Elizabeth Murdoch
• Malcolm de Sieyes
• Colby Lawrence

Project Description

Harbor Branch initiated a database of Indian River Lagoon (IRL) dolphins in 1996, using photo-identification methods (dolphins can be identified by unique notches on the dorsal fin). Photographic surveys are used to determine population abundance, distribution, occurrence, social organization, and to monitor life history. The goal is to understand the stock structure of dolphins distributed along Florida’s east coast. Knowing this will help NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service to separate locally resident dolphins found in estuaries from coastal populations occurring along the Atlantic seaboard.

Dolphins are “sentinels” of ocean and human health because harmful substances that enter their habitat will eventually move up the food chain become detectable in their tissues. Thus, data from population studies, life history and health assessments all serve as useful tools for resource mangers to create predictive models and validate present environmental strategies.

EPA's National Estuary Program (NEP), the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), and others charged with improving water quality in the IRL, can make practical use of these date. Longitudinal trends in dolphin home ranges and health status will be used to measure the results of restoration efforts, and track the results of reducing pollutants and restoring water quality in the IRL. In this way, dolphins play an integral role in mankind’s stewardship of the irreplaceable and valued resources of the Indian River Lagoon.