Human impact on the health status of phocids and otarids from the Antarctic Peninsula

Abstract

Pedraza Díaz, S. (2011). Human impact on the health status of phocids and otarids from the Antarctic Peninsula. Ecosistemas 20(1):87-93

Antarctica is undoubtedly one of the least impacted areas by human activities on the planet. However, the increased human presence recorded in the last few years, could seriously affect the Antarctic ecosystem. Medium to long-term effects may include health related aspects and the introduction or redistribution of diseases in the autochthonous fauna. Marine mammals, particularly Antarctic pinnipeds, due to their intrinsic characteristics, constitute excellent sentinel species to study such impact. However, currently there is lack of knowledge regarding disease in these populations. Our research aims at contributing to the current knowledge of the health status of these populations in the Antarctic Peninsula and to the potential human impact both at the population dynamics and health levels. The ultimate goal of our project is to provide useful data, through medium to long term monitoring of these animals, for risk assessment of disease introduction and environmental impact as well as for improvement of prevention and response measures and thereby contribute to the Conservation of the Antarctic Fauna and Environment.