VERTEBRAL COLUMN MALFORMATIONS IN WHITE-BEAKED DOLPHINS: FIRST CALL FOR COLLABORATION Few detailed reports of vertebral column malformations in white-beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) have been published. Data and photographs of white-beaked dolphins were collecting off Iceland on board whale-watching boats (Elding Hvalaskoðun Reykjavik ehf, in Reykjavik; North Sailing Whale-watching in Húsavík; Dolphin and Whale Spotting in Keflavík) over a 10-year period (2002-2012) during the course of Master and PhD projects. Six cases of kyphosis in wild white-beaked dolphins were documented. We are seeking collaborations with researchers outside of Iceland, who have data on wild and dead L. albirostris specimen showing vertebral column malformations. The goal of this collaboration is to report the occurrence of spinal deformities in a delphinid species which has been poorly studied. Collaborating scientists currently include Marianne H. Rasmussen (University of Iceland), Anders Galatius (University of Aarhus) and Carl C. Kinze (Danish Marine Mammal Society). Proposed deliverables will include publication in peer review journals. The funding agency along with all the collaboration organizations will be acknowledged in all scientific publications and scientific and public presentations of the research. This is an initial call so if you have interest in participating in this collaborative effort, please contact us by emailing Chiara G. Bertulli (ciarabertulli@yahoo.it). Best wishes Chiara G. Bertulli ********************* Chiara G. Bertulli, PhD student University of Iceland Biology Department Náttúrfræðahús/Askja Sturlugata 7 101 Reykjavik Iceland Skype: chiara.giulia.bertulli Website: www.faxa-cetacean.org