Summarizing over 20 years of research, this framework illustrates the interconnectedness of anthropogenic stressors influencing marine mammals (MarMams) and the cascading pathways through which these pressures affect their survival, health, and ecological function.

These drivers do not operate in isolation, they interact with each other and form feedback loops that amplify overall ecological risk. Collectively, these overlapping pressures contribute to declining health, reduced reproductive success, and increased mortality in marine mammal populations.

Unfortunately, among these stressors, fisheries interactions remains as the leading driver of strandings. As such, it is important that we continue to advocate for the harmonization of fishing gears and practices towards the protection of marine mammals and in turn, our oceans.

To report strandings or to learn more about marine mammals, you may check: https://learnmore-pmmsn.carrd.co

Originally posted by the Marine Mammal Research & Conservation Lab on Facebook