Whale deaths reported in Península Valdés and Puerto Madryn

The Península Valdés and Puerto Madryn regions in Argentina are facing an environmental crisis following the deaths of multiple southern right whales. Reports indicate that seven whales were found dead within a single week, adding to a season that has already seen a higher-than-average mortality rate among calves.

Researchers suggest two distinct causes for the deaths. Investigations into the calves have identified the presence of the bacterium Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, which is associated with septicemia and multi-organ failure. In contrast, the deaths of adults and juveniles are being investigated under the hypothesis of red tide poisoning. These adult specimens appeared to be in good nutritional condition and lacked the skin lesions typically associated with the bacterial infection, leading scientists to suspect natural biotoxins.

The Whale Conservation Institute (ICB) and researchers from CONICET are monitoring the situation. While scientific analysis requires time to produce reliable results, local environmental organizations and residents are calling for transparency and increased resources to address the crisis.