THEME & TOPICS
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.
TOPICS
When submitting your abstract, you’ll be asked to select a topic that best reflects the focus of your research. Each topic includes a short description to help you determine the most appropriate fit. There are ten major topics to choose from, covering the broad range of disciplines within marine mammal science. We recognize that many research areas overlap and may fit under more than one category—please select the topic that you feel most closely represents the primary theme of your work. This helps ensure your abstract is reviewed by the most relevant experts and grouped appropriately within the scientific program.
Explores the diverse ways marine mammals use sound for communication, navigation, and foraging. This theme includes studies on vocal repertoires, echolocation, acoustic ecology, and the effects of anthropogenic noise on marine mammal behavior and survival.
Highlights research on the form and function of marine mammal systems, including adaptations to aquatic life, thermoregulation, diving physiology, and sensory function.
Focuses on evolutionary history, phylogenetics, genomics, and molecular ecology. Contributions may address population genetics, adaptations to changing environments, and the identification of new lineages or cryptic species.
Addresses applied science and policy aimed at safeguarding marine mammal populations. Topics include population monitoring, threat mitigation, recovery planning, and evaluation of conservation strategies at local, regional, and global scales, encompassing both in situ and ex situ conservation.
Examines the interconnected health of marine mammals, humans, and ecosystems. This theme encompasses disease ecology, toxicology, zoonotic diseases, and the role of marine mammals as sentinels of ocean health.
Showcases advances in understanding marine mammal cognition, learning, social structure, and culture. Submissions may highlight long-term behavioral studies, tool use, and the transmission of behaviors across generations.
Covers the relationships between marine mammals and their environments, including habitat use, foraging ecology, prey dynamics, migration, and ecosystem roles from rivers to the open ocean.
Explores the complex relationships between people and marine mammals, from bycatch and vessel interactions to ecotourism and traditional knowledge. This theme considers both the challenges and opportunities for coexistence.
Highlights the role of public participation and education in advancing marine mammal science and conservation. Topics may include community science initiatives, educational programs, and collaborations with local and Indigenous communities.
Presents innovative tools and approaches that advance marine mammal research, including the use of drones, passive acoustics, biologging, artificial intelligence, and other novel analytical frameworks.