ABOUT | Emphatic Project

The EMPHATIC project, led by IIM-CSIC, brings together six expert organizations: CIIMAR, CIMA, DGRM, IEO-CSIC, and LRUniv. Our goal is to improve the monitoring and protection of key cetacean species in the Bay of Biscay (ABI) and Iberian coast and Western Mediterranean (WM) sub-regions.

We focus on species that are both ecologically important and policy-relevant, including:

These species are all protected under European regulations, with some requiring strict conservation measures.

BUT HOW DOES EMPHATIC WORKS?

The project is structured into different work packages (WPs) that work together:

- WP1: Project coordination and management
- WP2: Data collection through field research
- WP3 & WP4: Development of advanced monitoring tools and health assessments
- WP5: Engaging communities, policymakers, and citizen scientists

Common dolphin

(Delphinus delphis)

Bottlenose dolphin

(Tursiops truncatus)

Harbour porpoise

(Phocoena phocoena)

Sperm whale

(Physeter macrocephalus)

Fin whale

(Balaenoptera physalus)

WP1: Project Management

IIM-CSIC leads the coordination of EMPHATIC, ensuring smooth collaboration between all partners. Key coordination efforts include:

- Monitoring progress & deadlines
- Managing data & research outputs
- Financial oversight & reporting
- Engaging with relevant stakeholders

With a strong focus on collaboration, transparency, and efficiency, WP1 ensures EMPHATIC delivers meaningful results for cetacean conservation.

WP2: Data & Sample Acquisition

WP2 focuses on collecting the essential samples and data needed for analysis in later project stages. Fieldwork will take place across the ABI and WM sub-regions. Key activities include:

- Sampling seawater, free-ranging cetaceans, and stranded animals
- Using standardized fieldwork protocols
- Compiling methods into a monitoring toolbox for future research and conservation

All collected data will be documented in a final report, shared with relevant authorities to support marine conservation efforts.

WP3: Genetic Monitoring Tool for Distribution Range Assessment

WP3 focuses on developing and optimizing environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques to detect cetaceans using seawater samples. This cutting-edge approach will improve long-term monitoring of cetacean diversity, distribution, and population trends. Key activities include:

- Optimizing eDNA analysis using previously collected and new samples
- Developing species-specific primers for key species like common and bottlenose dolphins, and harbour porpoises
- Validating methods through sequencing and bioinformatics to ensure accuracy in species detection
- Reviewing global research to refine methodologies and assess their applicability in other regions

Once validated, the eDNA data will be compiled into open-access datasets, contributing to more effective and non-invasive cetacean conservation efforts.

WP4: Assessment of Health Status

WP4 focuses on developing indicators of cetacean health to create a population health index. This will help assess stress levels, body condition, and respiratory tract microbial communities, providing a clearer picture of cetacean well-being. Key activities include:

- Analyzing respiratory microbes, stress markers, and body condition
- Integrating health data with distribution and diversity insights
- Compiling findings into a cetacean monitoring toolbox
- Producing policy-relevant health indicators to support conservation efforts

Using data from WP2 (fieldwork) and WP3 (eDNA analysis), WP4 will ensure a scientifically robust and comprehensive approach to cetacean health monitoring.

WP5: Stakeholder Engagement & Outreach

WP5 ensures that scientific findings translate into real-world impact by engaging key stakeholders, from policymakers to local communities. This work package is fully integrated with the entire project, supporting and benefiting from all other WPs. Key activities include:

- Identifying and engaging stakeholders early in the project
- Developing a Stakeholder Engagement Strategy to guide interactions
- Creating a Dissemination & Exploitation Plan to share findings effectively
- Ensuring research informs conservation policies and tools

By fostering collaboration and communication, WP5 helps bridge science and policy, ensuring that EMPHATIC’s work contributes to stronger marine conservation efforts.