Multi-scale habitat preference analyses for Azorean blue whales.

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Ecology
• Oceanography

Background:

• The Azores archipelago is a known seasonal foraging ground for blue whales.
• Understanding blue whale habitat preferences is crucial for conservation efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the habitat preferences of blue whales around São Miguel Island.
• To analyze the temporal distribution of blue whales in the Azores.

Main Methods:

• Generalized Additive Models were applied to opportunistic cetacean occurrence data.
• Remotely sensed environmental data (bathymetry, sea surface temperature, chlorophyll, altimetry) were used at multiple spatial and temporal resolutions.
• Oceanographic dynamism was captured using daily, weekly, and monthly data, alongside low and high spatial resolutions.

Main Results:

• Blue whales exhibit a well-defined ecological niche around the Azores.
• The whales are present from March to June, with peak habitat suitability in dynamic areas.
• High Eddy Kinetic Energy zones, characterized by convergence and enhanced productivity, are favored.

Conclusions:

• Blue whales' habitat selection is strongly linked to oceanographic features and productivity.
• Multi-scale environmental data are essential for understanding the habitat requirements of mobile species like blue whales.
• The Azores represent a critical dynamic foraging area for blue whales.