Advances in the Pathology and Infectious Diseases of Marine Mammals

Dear Colleagues,

As homeothermal creatures occupying the upper tiers of the trophic chain and boasting prolonged lifespans, marine mammals are regarded as exemplary sentinels of the marine environment. In addition, many species share the coastal environment with humans and may serve as efficient bioindicators for infectious agents, including those with zoonotic potential, thus becoming important indicators for public health-related issues.

Monitoring their causes of stranding is of paramount importance, as it provides valuable and crucial information of the stressors and threats affecting marine ecosystems.

Preserving a sustainable equilibrium between human activities and the preservation of the oceans stands as a worldwide imperative for safeguarding marine ecosystems. Marine mammals provide critical information on the extent of degradation or preservation within this habitat through comprehensive post-mortem examinations.

The primary objective of this Special Issue is to present a collection of innovative research and review articles leveraging pathology as a fundamental instrument for promoting the health and conservation of cetaceans and other marine mammals. Contributions that explore advancements in marine mammal pathology, encompassing both field and laboratory diagnostics, as well as the introduction of novel methodologies and tools, are enthusiastically encouraged.

Dr. Federica Giorda
Dr. Carla Grattarola
Guest Editors

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• marine mammals
• cetacean
• pinnipeds
• dolphin
• pathology
• neuropathology
• conservation