Stranding of Marine Megafauna in Indonesian Waters: Causes of the Phenomenon and Handling Methods (Seastar2000)

Abstract

The stranding of marine megafauna such as whales, whale sharks or megamouth shark is a phenomenon that happens almost every year in Indonesian waters. There were 17 events of stranding whales and three events of stranding whale sharks recorded from all over the country during 2012-2013. Several factors were suggested as the causes of this phenomenon. Illness and disease problems seem to be a main factor for stranded whales, while human activities and plentiful food availability in the coastal areas became main factors for stranded whale sharks. A standard of procedure for handling stranded marine animals has been developed in Indonesia. Several limitations may generate on-going obstacles for these handling efforts, and pose challenges to the government and all stakeholders involved.