Risso’s Dolphin: a charismatic species that we have been monitoring for the past few days over the Ikaria Trench — a remarkable underwater canyon reaching depths of up to 1,400 meters.

Relatively unknown to the general public, the Risso’s dolphin is the largest dolphin species found in Greek waters, reaching up to 4 meters in length and weighing as much as 500 kg.

The first recorded migration of Risso’s dolphins in the eastern Aegean by the Archipelagos Institute took place in the autumn of 2000. Since then, systematic research has continued. Monitoring their populations and closing knowledge gaps are essential prerequisites for their protection.

They migrate through the Mediterranean Sea in small pods, typically over deep underwater canyons and trenches. They possess exceptional diving abilities as they can descend to depths of over 300 meters and hold their breath for over 30 minutes.

Keys threats to this species are overfishing and marine pollution.

If you’re traveling through the Greek seas and come across this rare species, send us photos, videos, or observations at: observations@archipelago.gr