We, at the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI), proudly stand as an independent marine science center deeply dedicated to research, education, and conservation. Since our establishment in 2005, our core mission has been to delve into marine biodiversity and share valuable insights with scientists, students, decision-makers, and the wider public, emphasizing the pivotal role of scientific research in marine conservation efforts. Our dedicated research team is committed to nurturing future marine scientists while actively working to decipher and mitigate the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.

 

Our accomplished scientists conduct comprehensive research across diverse domains, delving into critical areas such as the intricate relationships between marine predators (including cetaceans, sharks, otters, and marine birds) and their environments. We focus on understanding cetacean society and population dynamics, exploring the interaction of marine megafauna with human activities, and unraveling the nuanced behavior and acoustic communication of cetaceans.

 

Our institution's sterling reputation and success are deeply rooted in our ability to publish numerous scientific studies in esteemed journals, affirming BDRI's pivotal role as a leading center for pioneering scientific inquiry in the dynamic field of marine biology.

 

 

In 1999, the Italian non-profit research organization 'Accademia del Leviatano' initiated the 'Dolphin-project' in Sardinia, Italy, in collaboration with Dr. Bruno Díaz López. This initiative evolved over time, leading to the establishment of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) by Bruno in Sardinia in 2005. Over the years, the project expanded its scope, encompassing a broader geographical area and a more diverse array of research topics.

 

 

The incredible diversity of cetaceans present in our main study area (Galicia, NW Spain) allows the BDRI team to have several ongoing research projects focused on the study of the ecology and behaviour of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus), short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus), striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba), long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas), killer whales (Orcinus orca), sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus), beaked whales (3 different species), humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata), sei whales (Balaenoptera borealis), fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), and blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus). Moreover, Galician waters are also home to hundreds of species of marine birds, sharks and to the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), which are also included in our studies. A variety of conservation issues affect the species in these waters, many of which are related to human activity, such as the interaction with fisheries (a significant cause of mortality), overfishing, aquaculture activities, oil spills, pollution, the effects of shipping noise, military activity, and tourism.

 

 

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