RECENT OBSERVATIONS ON MONACHUS MONACHUS (PHOCIDAE) AT SEA-CAGE FISH FARMS IN IZMIR (TURKISH AEGEAN SEA)
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Keywords

Mediterranean monk seal
feeding behaviour
interaction
Mediterranean Sea

How to Cite

AKYOL, O., & TAKICAK, O. (2026). RECENT OBSERVATIONS ON MONACHUS MONACHUS (PHOCIDAE) AT SEA-CAGE FISH FARMS IN IZMIR (TURKISH AEGEAN SEA). ANNALES, SERIES HISTORIA NATURALIS, 35(2), 329–334. https://doi.org/10.19233/ASHN.2025.35

Abstract

On 8 February, 3 May, and 9 May 2025, three specimens of Monachus monachus were photographed by a staff diver at two fish farms rearing sea bass and sea bream in Gerence Bay, Izmir, in the Aegean Sea. A comprehensive set of behavioural data on Mediterranean monk seals was obtained from the diver via an interview. The findings confirm the near-permanent presence of monk seals in the study area. The paper also suggests that excessive dependence on fish farms could alter the monk seals’ feeding behaviour and potentially even lead to their domestication.

https://doi.org/10.19233/ASHN.2025.35
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References

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