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Home range and habitat distribution of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus Montagu (1821)) from Cardigan Bay

par Blavier, Mathilde
Président du jury Roisin, Yves
Promoteur Danis, Bruno
Publication Non publié, 2024-01-24

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Résumé :

This study explores the spatial distribution and relative density of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Cardigan Bay. Environmental factors such as bathymetry, substrate type and freshwater content are taken into account and related to the distribution and numbers of dolphins to determine if there is a relationship between them. The research aims to identify regions that are key to dolphin activity, including foraging, care of calves and social behaviour. The hypotheses investigate the influence of shallow areas, substrate types and freshwater content on areas of interest and dolphin distribution patterns. The study uses a multivariate approach, examining the relationships between environmental variables and dolphin distribution. The Sea Watch Foundation in Wales is leading this work, highlighting the importance of the bay's ecosystem. It is important to provide ecological information in order to put in place effective conservation and management strategies, taking into account the interaction of environmental variables and their impact on dolphin distribution. Notable challenges, such as seasonal variations, are recognised. The study highlights the need for ongoing monitoring of the population to understand changes in distribution and the implications for conservation.