Cetaceans and floating marine macro-litter in the Calabrian Ionian Sea (Central Eastern Mediterranean): applying conservation research

The Gulf of Squillace, in the Calabrian Ionian Sea, where we have been conducting scientific research and marine monitoring since 2019, has proven to be an important area for pelagic animals, including seabirds and sea turtles. Among these, the presence of cetaceans such as bottlenose dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and striped dolphins is regular, while other species are less frequent visitors. Over the years of monitoring, it has become clear that multiple factors contribute to the degradation of the coastal marine environment, particularly the presence of marine debris. Floating dangerous debris for cetaceans (DDFC) emerge as one of the main anthropogenic threats to the conservation of marine ecosystems and pelagic megafauna. During autumn and winter, marine litter predominantly originates from extreme weather events and riverine inputs. In contrast, during spring and summer, most debris is generated by maritime activities such as fishing, recreational boating, and coastal tourism. A monitoring survey conducted in 2024 and 2025, covering about 1,400 km, analyzed the distribution of floating macro-debris and cetaceans. Data collection was performed via visual surveys from inflatable boats, recording debris type and the presence of marine species. Results indicate a predominance of synthetic polymers, followed by fishing gear, wood, and metals. This study quantifies the potential risk of interaction by analyzing the spatial overlap between cetaceans' sightings tracks and floating dangerous debris for cetaceans. The primary objective is to identify high-risk areas to support evidence-based conservation strategies and mitigate programs, such as source prevention and debris removal. The presence of multiple cetacean species underscores the ecological importance of this region, which includes the SAC “Fondali di Stalettì” and the Marine Park “Baia di Soverato,” further justifying the need for targeted management recommendations.