Preliminary study on the coexistence of cetaceans with anthropogenic activities in the Gulf of Catania, Ionian Sea

Cetaceans represent a crucial indicator for studying the state of oceans. They are particularly vulnerable and sensitive to human activities which pose risks and disturbances that can affect marine organisms and entire populations, damaging the balance of the marine ecosystem. This preliminary study investigates the presence and distribution of cetaceans and threats to their conservation in the Gulf of Catania, eastern Sicily, Ionian Sea (Italy). It was conducted as part of the Interreg V-A Italia-Malta “Sea Marvel – Save, Enhance, Admire Marine Versatile Life” project, which aims to halt the loss of marine biodiversity in the Italy-Malta cross-border area by maintaining and restoring natural ecosystems and protected areas. Through marine surveys using the Fixed Line Transect (FLT) method, we have collected data on the presence of vulnerable species, naval traffic, fishing activities and marine litter in the area. Preliminary analyses show the overlapping of such areas interested by cetaceans and anthropogenic activities presence (NE area, offshore), while other zones, where cetaceans have not been sighted, are strongly interested by human activities and pollution effects (central coastal area). Further investigations will allow to acquire better knowledge about the ecological conditions of the entire Gulf and to define possible seasonal relationships between cetacean distribution and anthropogenic activities in the area.