Whale deaths in Chubut prompt environmental investigation

In Chubut, Argentina, researchers are investigating an unusual increase in whale mortality near Puerto Madryn and Península Valdés. Following a period where primarily calves were found dead since June, five whales—including juveniles and adults—were discovered dead within a three-day period in mid-October.

Mariano Coscarella, a biologist from the CENPAT Marine Mammal Laboratory, noted that the recent deaths of older animals represent an atypical pattern. One leading hypothesis is that the whales may have ingested algae associated with red tides while feeding in the Gulf, a phenomenon observed in previous years.