May 1st 2025
Striped Dolphins in the Aegean – A Springtime Encounter
They may look familiar, but striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) are a rare sight in coastal waters. These marine mammals typically inhabit the open sea, steering clear of shorelines and never approaching fishing gear.
They are easily recognisable by the bold black stripe that runs from their eye along each side of their body. Striped dolphins are remarkable acrobats, capable of leaping up to 7 meters into the air and spinning mid-flight, an inspiring display of power and agility.
Beyond their beauty and grace, striped dolphins play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the marine ecosystem. As top predators, they primarily feed on fish, squid, and octopus. By preying on the weakest or most vulnerable individuals, dolphins help ensure that only the strongest survive to reproduce. This natural selection process supports the long-term health and sustainability of fish populations, a benefit that extends to our fisheries as well.
It’s worth remembering that many fish species release thousands, sometimes millions, of eggs in a single breeding season. For instance, one cod can produce up to five million eggs. Among these are many genetically weak or malformed individuals, offspring that ideally should not survive or reproduce. Dolphins serve as natural regulators, helping maintain the genetic integrity of fish stocks, many of which are also targeted by human fishing efforts.
Without dolphins, the delicate balance of the marine food web and the sustainability of our fisheries would be at serious risk.
