Dominca Set to Protect Sperm Whales

The island nation of Dominica in the Caribbean announced the first marine reserve to protect sperm whales, Physeter macrocephalus, this month. It is a 304 square mile area on the island's west coast that protect the endangered whale's nursing and breeding grounds by limiting human activity.  The prime minister of Dominca called the resident sperm whales "prized citizens" of his nation, noting that they inhabited the waters before people inhabited the island.  Protecting them will enhance human health too, he added.  The new reserve increases by 70% the nation's total marine reserves.

a sperm whale family

The largest of the toothed whales. sperms are known for their deep diving, plunging to depths of  6,000 feet in search of their preferred prey, giant squid. They can hold their breath for 90 minutes. Besides being superb athletes, they are very social, forming tight knit family groups known as "clans".  The Dominican whales are part of the Eastern Caribbean Clan, thought to number fewer than 300.  The population has been declining by 3% annually since 2010 due to human pressures.  Members of the same clan have their own dialect of click patterns to identify each other. Newborns are often cared for communally by near relatives.  The whales encourage plankton growth by defecating at the surface between dives. The plankton absorbs carbon dioxide and release oxygen. [photo credit: B. Skerry]

Besides the beneficial ecological effects, Dominca's whales contribute to the nation's important tourist industry. Tourists will still be able to visit and even swim with the whales, but on a controlled basis.  An official monitor will be appointed to insure the rules are followed. Green Kudos go to Dominica!