Groundbreaking marine science is happening right in our backyard on the Treasure Coast, shedding new light on one of the ocean’s most elusive creatures. Researchers from FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, located just south of Vero Beach, have identified three previously unknown genotypes of bacteria in pygmy sperm whales. This discovery comes after decades of dedicated work monitoring marine mammal strandings along our local beaches.
Pygmy sperm whales are deep-diving mammals that are rarely seen alive in the wild due to their elusive nature. However, they are one of the most frequently stranded species along the southeastern United States. Because they are so difficult to observe in their natural habitat, scientists rely heavily on data collected from stranded individuals to understand their biology and health.
In a new study published in the Journal of Wildlife Diseases, the Harbor Branch team analyzed data and tissue samples collected over a span of more than 20 years. Between 1999 and 2020, the institute responded to 59 pygmy sperm whale strandings. By utilizing advanced DNA sequencing and molecular diagnostics, they discovered spiral-shaped bacteria in the whales’ stomach tissues. These newly identified strains have been named:
This marks the first documented occurrence of these specific bacteria in this species. While two of the genotypes share genetic similarities with bacteria found in humans and other dolphins, the third strain is from a more divergent lineage, suggesting there is still much to learn about microbial life in the deep ocean.
Dr. Annie Page, a senior author of the study and clinical veterinarian at FAU Harbor Branch, emphasized the significance of finding these pathogens in deep-diving mammals.
Helicobacter bacteria have long been associated with gastrointestinal disorders in humans and other animals, including chronic gastritis, ulcers, and even gastric cancer. To find novel strains of these bacteria in a deep-diving whale species is intriguing.
The study noted that all whales testing positive for the bacteria showed signs of gastrointestinal distress. While the bacteria were not determined to be the direct cause of death for these animals, the infected individuals suffered from visible health issues, including:
Wendy Marks, a research coordinator at FAU Harbor Branch, noted that these findings raise important questions about the health of whale populations. If chronic infections are causing underlying health issues, it could make these already vulnerable animals more susceptible to other threats.
This research highlights the critical importance of local stranding response programs. Without the long-term data collection performed by the team at Harbor Branch, these discoveries would remain hidden. The project was a collaborative effort involving the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, and Marine Mammal Pathology Services.
For residents of Vero Beach and Indian River County who support local conservation efforts, this study serves as a reminder of the vital work funded by community initiatives. The research was made possible in part by the Florida State Specialty License Plate Program under the “Protect Florida Whales” grant.
