Dolphins’ health shed light on human and ocean health
Scientists discover clues into human diseases by studying dolphins in a changing ocean
A panel of governmental, academic and non-profit scientists speaking today at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) unveiled research suggesting that diseases found in dolphins are similar to human diseases and can provide clues into how human health might be affected by exposure to contaminated coastal water or seafood.
“Dolphins and humans are both mammals, and their diet includes much of the same seafood that we consume. Unlike us, however, they are exposed to potential ocean health threats such as toxic algae or poor water quality 24 hours a day,” said Carolyn Sotka of the NOAA Oceans and Human Health Initiative and lead organizer of the session. “Our ecological and physiological similarities make dolphins an important ’sentinel species’ to not only warn us of health risks, but also provide insight into how our health can benefit from new medical discoveries.”
“Marine animal and ecosystem health are connected to public health and well-being,” said Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. “NOAA is committed to better understanding these connections and building the partnerships necessary to have healthy oceans, including healthy dolphins.”
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-02/nh-dhs021210.php
Tags: atlantic ocean, Biodiversity, Ecology, Ocean Acidification, Oceans
