Management and Conservation of Marine Megafauna

Marine megafauna refers to large marine animals, typically over 100 kilograms in weight, that play crucial roles in ocean ecosystems. This diverse group includes whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and sea turtles. They occupy various niches in the marine food web, influencing prey populations and ecosystem dynamics. These animals face numerous threats, primarily from human activities such as overfishing, pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these species and maintain the health of marine ecosystems they inhabit. Marine megafauna are often charismatic and serve as flagship species for ocean conservation, garnering public attention and support for broader marine protection initiatives. Understanding their biology, behavior, and ecological roles is essential for effective conservation strategies. Research efforts focus on tracking movements, studying breeding behaviors, and assessing population trends to implement targeted conservation measures. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches of conservation and management of marine megafauna. The aim of this book is to present researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in this area at various levels.