Molecular analysis of endoparasites from marine mammals from southern Spain including the Campo de Gibraltar

Abstract

Marine mammals are susceptible to many parasitic infections that can have an influence on their health and ability to survive in their environments, especially nowadays with increasing threats and many cetacean species being endangered or even at risk of extinction. This study presents the results of a comprehensive molecular analysis of endoparasites in marine mammals, including the Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus), the Common Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), the Short-beaked Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis), the Striped Dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), the Harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), and the Long-finned Pilot Whale (Globicephala melas), found in southern Spain including the strait of Gibraltar. The aim of this study is to investigate parasitic infections in marine mammals and thereby contribute to the protection of these endangered species.