The Mediterranean Monk Seal and Other Endangered Marine Mammals. From Past to Future: Perspectives on Ecology, Biology, Monitoring, and Conservation

Dear Colleagues, 

Marine mammals are top predators in the ocean's ecological systems.

With several species having reached alarmingly low population levels over time due to human action, understanding the past and present roles of endangered species in oceanic systems is essential to aid in our comprehension and definition of these species, and in the application of adequate conservation measures.

Therefore, efforts must be made to preserve and restore our planet's natural equilibrium, which is approaching crisis level.

The application of specific measures to protect umbrella species of marine mammals can benefit the entire ecosystem. As charismatic species, they can motivate citizens and stakeholders to promote policies and environmental measures to protect the species and their ecosystems.

This Special Issue focuses on one of the most endangered and poorly understood pinniped species: the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus. We aim to provide information on its ecology, biology, past and present populations, and methodologies for its study and conservation.

In addition, this issue aims to compile information from other endangered marine mammal species, with papers highlighting problems, research, analyses, and solutions applicable to them all despite their differences.

Given the time pressure to undertake appropriate marine mammal conservation, it is necessary to merge current scientific research on these species. This Special Issue aims to amalgamate this information, and we encourage interested authors to submit research on the proposed themes.

Dr. Gema Hernandez-Milian
Dr. Luigi Bundone
Guest Editors

Mercedes Muñoz-Cañas
Guest Editor Assistant

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