Bottlenose Dolphin Surveys in Biscayne Bay

On May 21 and June 15-26, 2026, The International SeaKeepers Society provided vessel support aboard DISCOVERY II for 11 days of field research with Florida International University’s Marine Mammal Ecology Lab during a research expedition investigating resident bottlenose dolphins in Biscayne Bay.

During the expedition, researchers conducted vessel-based surveys using a combination of photo-identification and behavioral observations to document dolphin distribution, habitat use, and behavior throughout the bay. Focal follows are conducted, whereby dolphin groups are observed over extended periods (a few hours in general), while researchers record behavioral state and document nearby vessel activity. This allows researchers to better understand how dolphins utilize habitats throughout the day and how boating activity may affect their behavior.

The team also successfully collected 20 biopsy samples from selected individuals to support ongoing research of population health and ecology. FIU scientists are investigating how increasing water temperatures and other human impacts, such as contaminants, affect stress levels of bottlenose dolphins. Together, these data will contribute to the long-term monitoring of Biscayne Bay’s resident bottlenose dolphins, providing valuable information to guide future research, conservation, and management efforts. All research activities were conducted under the appropriate scientific permits.