A stranding of pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata) near Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico confirms the presence of the species in the Mexican Caribbean

Abstract

Abstract Strandings and opportunistic sightings represent an invaluable source of information on cetacean’s biodiversity in the Mexican Caribbean. Here, we document the stranding and rescue of two pantropical spotted dolphins Stenella attenuata (mother and male calf) near Tulum (Quintana Roo, Mexico), which died without a clear diagnosis of cause of death. This case confirms the occurrence of S. attenuata, increasing the number of local aquatic mammals to 20. As most of the other small cetaceans in this region, the conservation status of the species remains undefined, and more research is needed to better understand ecological and biological aspects of its population.