Small scale habitat modeling for Commerson's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus commersonii) in northern Patagonia, Argentina

We build a spatial model to identify the environmental variables that affect the Commerson's dolphin distribution in northern Patagonia, around the estuary of the Chubut River. Commerson's have a higher probability of occurrence in shallow waters, on the consolidated seabed and close to the Chubut River mouth. These results highlighted the prominent relationship of this species with geographic and bathymetric features. Concurrently the preferred habitat of Commerson's are the areas used for human activities such as navigation, fishery, and recreation. This information will help to improve the management of regional conservation areas by considering sensitive habitats.

Fil: Coscarella, Mariano Alberto. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Centro Nacional Patagónico. Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia "San Juan Bosco"; Argentina

Fil: Sueyro, Nicolás. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Centro Nacional Patagónico. Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia "San Juan Bosco"; Argentina

Fil: Crespo, Enrique Alberto. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Centro Nacional Patagónico. Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia "San Juan Bosco"; Argentina

Fil: Pennino, Maria Grazia. Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas; España