Dear colleagues We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article on potential effects of climate change on the feeding ecology of common minke whales: Víkingsson, G.A., Elvarsson, B.Þ, Ólafsdóttir, D., sigurjónsson, J., Chosson, v. and Galan, A. 2013. Recent changes in the diet composition of common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) in Icelandic waters. A consequence of climate change? Marine Biology Research, 10:2, 138-152, DOI: 10.1080/17451000.2013.793812 Abstract The common minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) is the most abundant mammalian top predator in Icelandic continental shelf waters. Here, an account is given on the first systematic research programme into the feeding ecology of common minke whales in Icelandic waters based on an analysis of minke whale stomach contents data collected in Icelandic waters during 20032007. The results show pronounced spatial and temporal variation in the diet. The temporal changes include a decrease in the proportion of sandeel in the diet over the study period and a corresponding increase in herring (Clupea haerengus) and haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), particularly in the southern area. The diet also differed markedly from the previously available, limited data from Icelandic waters with less krill and the cold water species capelin (Mallotus villosus) and more gadoids and herring in the more recent period. These changes in diet composition are consistent with recent changes in the Icelandic continental shelf ecosystem, including increased sea surface and bottom temperatures and changes in distribution and abundance of several fish species, including sandeel (Ammodytidae) and capelin. Although natural fluctuations cannot be ruled out at this stage, these dietary changes, together with decreased abundance in coastal waters, may reflect the responses of minke whales to a changed environment possibly driven by global warming. The article can be obtained at the Journal website http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/smar20#.Ul_4YlMshDI or by a request for a pdf to gisli@hafro.is Regards -- Gísli A. Víkingsson Head of Whale Research Marine Research Institute Skulagata 4 PO Box 1390 121 Reykjavík Iceland Tel. +354 575 2000 Fax +354 575 2001 Email: gisli@hafro.is www.hafro.is If you experience difficulties with this email, please try: gisliviking@gmail.com