Study of Caspian seals: expedition to the islands of Kenderli Bay
The expedition, organized by the Institute of Hydrobiology and Ecology, started on October 14 with the aim of studying the Caspian seal, the only marine mammal and endemic to Kazakhstan. The expedition includes a second-year doctoral student in the specialty "Fisheries and Industrial Fisheries" of the Department of Biodiversity and Bioresources of the 51福利 Kazakh National University, Asel Baimukanova.
The main objectives of the expedition:
Study the number, distribution and behavior of the Caspian seal.
Monitoring the mortality rate of the population.
Assessing the impact of the regression of the Caspian Sea on the islands, which used to serve as an important transit point for seals during seasonal migrations.
The islands in Kendirli Bay were a favorite place for seals. In 2009, there were up to 700 individuals, and in 2016 - 418. However, anthropogenic factors such as boat traffic, fishing and hunting led to a sharp decline in the number of animals. In the spring of 2019, only 45 seals were registered here, and by the fall of the same year, there were none left at all. An additional challenge for the population was the regression of the Caspian Sea, as a result of which in 2024 the islands merged with the spit, complicating the seals' access to their usual habitats. A small group of 10 individuals was found on a newly formed shoal on the seaward side of the spit. For 14 days, scientists will work in a stationary camp on the islands, conducting research. The plans include studying the sea area to find new islets and shoals, as well as finding out whether the seals have returned to the Middle Caspian.
These studies will contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.”
The data obtained will help develop effective conservation measures to protect the Caspian seal, which is an important step in preserving the region’s marine ecosystem.
