Whales and dolphins may receive their own protected zone around Curaçao

WILLEMSTAD – The government of Curaçao is working on plans to designate the waters around the island as a marine mammal sanctuary. This was revealed in an explanation by biologist Dolfi Debrot during a radio interview on Curaçao.nu 101FM, where he and researcher Richard Witte discussed the ongoing inventory of marine mammals and the preparation of the protection plan.

According to Debrot, a marine mammal sanctuary is an area where whales and dolphins receive additional protection. Although marine mammals are not hunted in Curaçao, this still occurs in parts of the Caribbean region. "It therefore makes sense to also contribute to the regional sanctuaries, such as around Bonaire, by establishing a marine mammal sanctuary here as well."

21 species of marine mammals identified

Research around the Leeward Islands shows that the number of identified species has increased in recent years. "The research showed thirteen species, but we have now established that there are 21 species," said Witte.

Among the species that occur year-round are the Bryde’s whale (locally often called "Brite whale"), the bottlenose dolphin, the spinner dolphin, and the pantropical spotted dolphin. Additionally, larger and less frequently seen species are also observed. "The sperm whale also occurs here, as does the orca. They are present every year, but not year-round," according to Witte.

Deep-sea species such as Cuvier’s beaked whale and Gervais’ beaked whale have also been identified in the waters around Curaçao. According to the researchers, these species are sensitive to noise disturbance.

More than 800 reports

The inventory is based on a growing number of sightings. "A total now, Richard, of more than 800 reports so far," said Debrot. Many of these reports come from fishermen and other people who are regularly at sea.

The researchers collaborate with regional organizations such as the Aruba Marine Mammal Foundation and the Caribbean Cetacean Society, which support the ministry in its intention to establish a sanctuary.

Productive seas attract whales

According to Debrot, the southern Caribbean region is particularly rich in marine mammals due to the high marine productivity off the coast of Venezuela. "Just east of our islands, near Margarita, that’s where you have the highest productivity in the entire Caribbean region."

According to Debrot, this is the largest sardine fishery. "Because of all those fish that occur there, many marine mammals also come to the southern Caribbean region."

Protection primarily through legislation

The proposed sanctuary is primarily intended to legally anchor existing protection, according to Debrot. "Now that marine mammals are no longer controversial and are no longer hunted, it’s important to properly establish that protection in legislation and in the designated marine area."

Measures may focus on limiting noise disturbance at sea and preventing harmful fishing nets. "Many of the whales that wash up dead here are entangled in fishing nets," said Debrot. The recent ban on certain nets fits within this protection approach, according to him.

Opportunities for research and tourism as well

A sanctuary can also provide space for further research and regulated tourism, according to the researchers. Whale-watching can be permitted provided international rules are followed.

"If you impose those rules and you have a sanctuary, then you can also better ensure that the organizations conducting those whale-watching activities comply with the rules," according to Witte.

According to Debrot, whales and dolphins are already regularly visible around the island, including on routes to Klein Curaçao.

Decision lies with authorities

When the sanctuary will actually be established remains unclear. The researchers are currently working on a scientific article that should be published within a few months. After that, it will be up to the authorities to take further steps.

"Establishing a sanctuary is of course not the researchers’ responsibility. That’s the government’s responsibility," according to Debrot.