Dear Colleagues, We are happy to announce the publication of our new paper. Violo et al. 2025. Cetacean habitat use and occurence in Fort-de-France Bay (Martinique). Animals, /15/(18), 2640; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15182640 Abstract: While coastal species have been widely studied, active port areas in tropical island regions with intense maritime traffic remain critical, but habitats for cetaceans within the Caribbean have not been thoroughly studied. This study examines the spatial and temporal patterns of habitat use and the characteristics of groups of six cetacean species in the Bay of Fort-de-France in Martinique, an area with heavy marine traffic. Data were collected from 2018 to 2022 through systematic boat-based surveys. We analyzed standardized observations of group occurrence, size, behavior, and depth preference across different subzones of the bay. Our results reveal that Stenella attenuata and Stenella longirostris are the most frequently observed species, exhibiting distinct seasonal patterns, while other species occur more sporadically. Group sizes and behavioral patterns vary significantly across zones and depths. Larger, more interactive groups are generally observed in shallow areas. Several species’ preference for nearshore waters highlights the ecological value of the bay and the potential risks posed by anthropogenic pressures, such as noise, collisions, and habitat degradation. Our findings underscore the importance of considering cetacean habitat use in port management strategies. This study provides essential baseline knowledge to support conservation efforts and the development of mitigation measures that reconcile economic activities with the protection of marine biodiversity. The paper can be accessed here https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15182640 Best regards, Benjamin.
