More than 300 baby whales die off Argentina coast this year
Scientists are investigating a possible bacterial infection after more than 300 southern right whale calves died near Peninsula Valdés since June.
More than 300 southern right whale calves have been reported dead near Argentina's Peninsula Valdés since June. The deaths have occurred in the Chubut province, which serves as a breeding ground for the species.
The number of reported calf deaths is nearly three times the previous record of 113 deaths recorded in 2012. In September, scientists counted 1,375 southern right whales in the region, including 409 calves.
Preliminary findings from a survey by CESIMAR's Marine Mammal Laboratory and biologist analyses of whale samples have detected Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. This bacterium is associated with erysipelas, an infection that can affect the skin and damage vital organs.
Researchers noted that this bacterium was previously identified in calves in the region in 2013. Scientists are investigating why the infection appears to have caused such a high number of deaths this year.
One hypothesis suggests that kelp gulls may contribute to the issue by pecking at whales and leaving wounds that allow bacteria to enter the body. Researchers are also examining if environmental changes like water temperature, salinity, or pH levels are involved.
While the cause is not fully understood, scientists are examining tissue samples to determine if the pathogen has become more dangerous or if multiple factors are acting together.