Dusky dolphin and tourist interaction: effect on diurnal feeding behavior

摘要: Dolphin watching is a relatively newly developed tourist activity. Although it assumed to contribute the conservation of marine ecosystems, its long-term adverse effects are still unknown. The present work aims assess impact tour vessels on behavior pattern dusky dolphins displaying diurnal and cooperative feeding. We evaluated potential bias commercial ves- sels specific activities, short-term responses vessel approach, longer-term these changes, particularly activity budget time need resume an activ- ity. Several field experiments were carried out in which approached by research sel or vessels. Group tracking was also made from vessel. Behavioral sequences modeled stochastic matrix models. Activity return ity obtained properties. Commercial trips found mostly feeding groups. Feeding showed highest rate change at moment had effect direction change. Over longer term, socializing budgets decreased when present. as well took for group feed increased presence Dusky dol- phins South Atlantic waters during day patchily distributed prey. Our study demon- strates that boat negatively affects efficiency dolphins.