Marine ecosystems

The southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) population that calves off the coast of South Africa has been the focus of intensive scientific monitoring since 1969. Initiated following the cessation of commercial whaling, this long-term research program employs annual aerial surveys to assess demographic trends. In 1979, the methodology was enhanced through the integration of photoidentification techniques, and other technologies as time progressed, described in Best (1981; 1990; 2011), Best et al. (2001) and Vermeulen et al. (2025). This advancement enabled researchers to distinguish individual whales based on their unique callosity patterns and skin pigmentation features, including brindle coloration, grey blazes, and white patches (Payne et al., 1983). The surveys prioritise the identification of nursing females with calves (cow-calf pairs) and individuals exhibiting distinctive physical traits.

A webinar about marine ecosystems and what is being done to protect them.

Learn about the marine laws that govern and protect our marine environments

This infographic explains what a Marine Protected Area is and why they are so important

Learn why our fisheries are under threat and what is being done to save them in this fun video filmed on World Fisheries Day 2019.

This interesting Webinar speaks to the importance of estuaries and why it is critical that we conserve them. Watch a panel of specialists speak about this critical topic. 

Learn all about the importance of penguins and watch a penguin release from the view point of these incredible birds. 

In this interesting webinar, learn about the state of conservation in the Western Cape, what the threats are to biodiversity and what is being done to conserve it. 

Listen to our Field Rangers talk about biodiversity crime.