Research studies that focus on cetaceans are rare in Guatemala. In a country with many economic problems, it is difficult to do research and conservation on resources that are not used by regular people. Yet, marine mammals, especially cetaceans, have gained the attention of groups interested in doing whale watching. This activity is seen as a potential source of income for local fishermen. However, education has to be done before people can understand and appreciate the importance of conducting whale watching activities in a manner that is not detrimental to the animals.
       

Ester Quintana conducting field research on cetaceans in the Pacific Coast of Guatemala.

       Part of the education that is needed includes understanding the biodiversity of cetaceans found in the country. No studies examining cetacean biodiversity have been conducted by local researchers. This study represents the first effort to gain a better understanding of the resources available in the country. Since August 2008, photo-identification surveys have been conducted along the Pacific coast of Guatemala. Although financial constraints allow surveys along only half of the country’s Pacific coast, preliminary results are very encouraging. Surveys conducted at 3- and 5-miles from shore indicate the presence of at least four cetacean species: bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata), false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens), and humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). Of these, spotted dolphins and bottlenose dolphins have been the most commonly observed species. Spotted dolphins have been sighted in groups up to around 75 individuals. The first sighting of humpback whales occurred in the beginning of October, which coincides with the migration pattern of those whales from the Northeastern Pacific to Central America where they mate and have their calves. Most of the sightings of cetaceans have occurred in areas of depths of more than 35 m and animals have been involved in all kinds of activities. Photo-identification analysis has started and animals with distinctive fins have been observed, including bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and false killer whales. No re-sightings of those animals have been confirmed yet. Humpback whales are recognized by the color patterns on their flukes. It was not possible to take pictures of the flukes of the whales observed in the one sighting recorded so far, but I hope to photograph the flukes of whales in future sightings.

A group of very acrobatic spottd dolphins sighted int he beginning of October 2008. Photo by Ester Quintana.

        This project is an exciting opportunity because it is the first scientific effort of its kind at the national level and because most of the funding comes from the Guatemalan government through its National Commission for Science and Technology (CONCYT). Their interest and involvement is crucial for the conservation and management of marine resources. Additional support has been provided by the Chicago Board of Trade, PADI Foundation, and Idea Wild.