Vodic o dupinima (dolphins guide, Uber Delphine,Guida dei delfini)

ADRIATIC DOLPHIN PROJECT

The Adriatic Dolphin Project (ADP) is the longest ongoing study of one resident bottlenose dolphin population in the Mediterranean sea. It is carried out since 1987. The aim of the project is to undertake research of the dolphins that frequent the archipelago of Lošinj and Cres islands, as well as to provide a link between science and the public. Gaining an international profile, the ADP has increasingly functioned as a meeting point for the exchange of knowledge by international researchers interested in the ecology of marine mammals and other marine organisms.
Over the past years the investigation of the Lošinj dolphin population, which is currently estimated at being around 100 individuals, has provided insights into many aspects of their ecology. These findings now serve as scientific justification for the establishment of the proposed Lošinj Dolphin Reserve.

RESEARCH

The main research methodology in use is photo-identification. Photographs of the markings on the dorsal fin of the dolphins are taken. These marks, made naturally through the social behaviour of the animals, are like individual fingerprints. All photos taken in the field are then compared to the ADP catalogue to identify the animal. Currently the catalogue contains over 160 known individuals, all of whom are named for ease of recognition. Additional information such as group size, behaviour, number of calves, sighting locations, and related environmental data are collected during dolphin sightings. Combined, this data presents information on habitat use, association patterns, mortality and reproductive rates, data needed for conservation and management.
During the last several years the project has expanded its research focus and among other topics emphasis is placed on acoustic study.Recordings of underwater noise is collected regularly within the study area throughout the year, and compared to behaviour and habitat use of dolphins. Findings suggest that dolphins avoid certain key areas, what is connected with the increase of boat traffic in summer. Further studies in genetics and biomarkers in the future will provide further information on the health status of the Losinj bottlenose dolphins.

LOŠINJ MARINE EDUCATION CENTRE

The Island of Lošinj is surrounded by the sea and the sea presents the greatest natural asset of the islanders. Marine environment has great natural value, but also recreational and commercial use. Marine education helps ensure that this environment is understood and appreciated.

Lošinj Marine Education Centre (LMEC) is the first educational and interpretational centre about the marine environment on the Croatian Adriatic coast. It is situated in Veli Lošinj and was established by the Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation in cooperation with the City of Mali Lošinj. The Centre was opened in order to provide a link between the scientific research and general public and to present different information and educational contents that explain biology, ecology and different marine research to as many people as possible. Lošinj Marine Education Centre (LMEC) provides children and adults with the opportunity to enjoy and learn about local marine life. Encouraging general understanding of environmental issues represents a basis of efficient nature protection which is the final aim of Blue world’s efforts. With LMEC, Lošinj became one of the international cities with public education centres that promote the understanding and p