Join us in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 19–23 October 2026, for the 26th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals—the first SMM biennial in Latin America.
ABSTRACT / WORKSHOP SUBMISSIONS
Abstract and workshop submission is now closed. The submission deadlines were Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 12:00 PM (noon) Atlantic Time (GMT-4).
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION DEADLINE
Early bird registration deadline was Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 11:59 PM Atlantic Time. Standard rates now apply.
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
We are delighted to officially invite you to the 26th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals, which will be held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from 19-23 October 2026. This will be a landmark event—the first SMM biennial conference in Latin America—celebrating the region’s key role in advancing marine mammal science and conservation.
The conference will take place at the Centro de Convenciones Pedro Rosselló González, centrally located in Isla Grande, San Juan, with pre-conference workshops on 17–18 October.
We aim to host an enriching, inclusive, and sustainable conference. We encourage all delegates to view their participation not only as a scientific exchange but also as an opportunity to experience the rich cultural, historical, and ecological beauty of Puerto Rico—from its rich architecture and vibrant communities to tropical forests, coral reefs, and marine wonders.
CONFERENCE THEME
ONE OCEAN, ONE FUTURE: Advancing Marine Mammal Science for Ecosystem Health
Our theme, “One Ocean, One Future,” underscores our shared responsibility to advance marine mammal science amid growing human pressures. It calls for stronger global partnerships, innovative research, and timely, evidence-based action to ensure healthy oceans for all.
The scientific program will feature ten sessions spanning topics such as acoustics, anatomy and physiology, ecology, conservation, and evolution—alongside new themes on emerging technologies and marine mammal–human interactions. Five keynote speakers will share perspectives on marine mammal science and the One Health approach. Panel discussions will explore pressing issues, from ex-situ conservation and science communication to the vital work of the SMM’s Committee on Taxonomy.
Get to know SMM2026 with the Schedule-at-a-Glance—an easy snapshot of the conference, from workshops to keynote plenaries, sessions, and events.
Antonio Mignucci-Giannoni
Conference Co-Chair
Anmari Alvarez-Aleman
Conference Co-Chair
Nataly Castelblanco-Martinez
Scientific Program Co-Chair
Daniel Gonzalez-Socoloske
Scientific Program Co-Chair
Antonio Mignucci-Giannoni
Conference Co-Chair
Anmari Alvarez-Aleman
Conference Co-Chair
Nataly Castelblanco-Martinez
Scientific Program Co-Chair
Daniel Gonzalez-Socoloske
Scientific Program Co-Chair
Welcome to
Join us in October 2026 for the 26th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals!
Set on the beautiful and historic Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, this marks the first time our Biennial Conference will be hosted in Latin America—a proud milestone celebrating the region’s vital role in marine mammal science and conservation. This conference will highlight the remarkable efforts across Latin America to study and protect marine mammals.
Join us in October 2026 for the 26th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals!
Set on the beautiful and historic Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, this marks the first time our Biennial Conference will be hosted in Latin America—a proud milestone celebrating the region’s vital role in marine mammal science and conservation. This conference will highlight the remarkable efforts across Latin America to study and protect marine mammals.
The Dr. Pedro Rosselló González Puerto Rico Convention Center (or Centro de Convenciones de Puerto Rico in Spanish), is a located in San Juan, Puerto Rico. With a total space of 600,000-square-foot (55,742 m2), it is the largest convention center in the Caribbean and one of the most technologically advanced in the Americas.
