Marine parasites: unveiling their impact on whale navigation and strandings

Researchers from Charles Sturt have discovered that nematodes found in the blowholes of stranded pilot whales may disrupt their navigation and communication abilities. This theory, developed by Professor Shokoofeh Shamsi and Dr. Diane Barton, was sparked by a 50-year-old sample from a Tasmanian museum. The study, published in the Journal of Diseases of Aquatic Organisms, highlights the potential impact of marine parasites on whale behaviour and raises questions about their role in whale strandings, particularly in Tasmania.

This research exemplifies the innovative and impactful work being conducted at Charles Sturt to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability.