Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are pleased to share our new publication on the ecology of Fraser’s dolphins (Lagenodelphis hosei) in Taiwanese waters, recently published in Pacific Science:
Ching-Wen Chou, Wen-Ta Li, Hsin-Yi Yu, Wei-Cheng Yang, Chiou-Ju Yao, Lien-Siang Chou, and Ing Chen "Multi-Decadal Ecological Observations of Fraser's Dolphin, Lagenodelphis hosei (Cetacea: Delphinidae) in Taiwanese Waters," Pacific Science 80(2), 123-139, (1 October 2026). https://doi.org/10.2984/80.2.1 Abstract: Understanding a species distribution is crucial for conservation, especially for species involved in human–wildlife conflicts. Fraser's dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei) is one of the least studied cetaceans but is frequently caught in tropical fisheries. The species has been known to the scientific community in Taiwanese waters since 1969, yet its distribution, movement patterns, and group structure remain largely unknown. This study analyzed 25 yr (1995–2020) of sighting and stranding records to assess occurrence patterns in relation to seasonality, geography, sea surface temperature, and climate change. Results indicate Fraser's dolphins are present year-round, with key habitat off Taiwan's eastern coast in waters 1,000–2,000 m deep. Most sightings occurred when sea surface temperature was ∼28–29 °C. No mass strandings were recorded, although field observations suggest the species is highly social. Group sizes ranged from dozens to thousands, with mother-calf groups being larger. Repeated sightings of mother-calf pairs over decades suggest these waters may serve as an important calving or nursing ground. The number of sightings and strandings has increased in the past decade, highlighting the need for further research and conservation efforts. We hope this study will be of interest to colleagues working on Fraser's dolphins, tropical odontocetes, cetacean distribution and habitat use, and long-term marine mammal monitoring. Please feel free to contact me (ingechen /at/ ntu.edu.tw) for an e-copy. Best Wishes, Ing **** Ing Chen, PhD Assistant Professor | Department of Geography National Taiwan Normal University [email protected] | +886 2-7749-1678 | Website <https://sites.google.com/view/ingchenbbg/news> _______________________________________________ MARMAM mailing list [email protected] https://lists.uvic.ca/mailman/listinfo/marmam
