Cutaneous Lesions in Cetaceans: An Indicator of Ecosystem Status?

Abstract

The first reports of skin disease in cetaceans date back to the 1950’s [2]. However, over the last 60 years the frequency of these reports steadily increased. The question, therefore, arose as to whether scientists are just more aware of this phenomenon and consequently report more cases, or whether the occurrence of these lesions is indeed on the increase. Many natural factors such as ecto-parasites, water temperature and salinity are role players in these diseases. However, anthropogenic impact can no longer be ignored, since these influences can even affect the natural factors by escalating their effect. This brings one to another imperative question; whether these factors are linked, or whether they are merely the result of a coincidence. The aim of this review is therefore, to take a closer look at the skin of cetaceans, the occurrence of skin lesions among these mammals, the microbes that seem to be the causative agents, as well as contributing factors such as anthropogenic activities.