What is a marine megafauna species?

Marine megafauna refer to cetaceans (porpoise, dolphins, and whales), pinnipeds (seals), large fishes (such as billfish, and tunas), sharks, skates, and rays, plus seabirds.

Why are marine megafauna populations a priority for protection?

Successful management of ocean ecosystems requires adequate knowledge of megafauna behaviour, habitats, and life history, to monitor species interactions with anthropogenic activities and for Marine Spatial Planning (MSP). 

Apex predators are arguably some of the more iconic members that make up oceanic biodiversity. However, their ecology, movements, and functional influence on the marine ecosystem remains poorly understood. Due to their life-history traits (have few offspring, slow growth, late age to maturity), many marine megafauna populations have declined due to unsustainable and direct exploitation and incidental mortality in fisheries. Cumulative impacts from human activities such as the introduction of noise pollution from shipping, offshore construction for wind farms, and oil & gas exploration all pose significant threats to the spectra of marine megafauna found in Irish waters.

We have hosted over 200 public out-reach events and have had a huge impact on local coastal community awareness of marine wildlife through our photography, research and public talks!