Dive into the fascinating world of whales, dolphins, porpoises, and manatees with this authoritative volume, offering the most comprehensive overview of all cetacean and sirenian species found in Middle and South America.
This beautifully illustrated handbook explores every aspect of their biology—from palaeontology and physiology to genetics, reproduction, development, ecology, and diet. It also examines habitat preferences, mortality patterns, and age determination, alongside their economic significance and management. Future challenges for research and conservation are addressed in depth, making this an essential resource for understanding and protecting these remarkable marine mammals.
Each species chapter includes a detailed distribution map, high-quality photographs, and key references for further study.
Part of the acclaimed Handbook of the Mammals of Middle and South America series, this volume is an indispensable reference for academics, students, wildlife managers, and professionals in conservation biology, ecology, and systematics.

Salvatore Siciliano graduated in Biological Sciences from Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Master's in Zoology from Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, and Ph.D. in Zoology from Museu Nacional/Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. He is currently a researcher at the Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. His research focuses on the following topics in the field of zoology: Brazil, Neotropics, Distribution, Biogeography, Pollutants, Metals, and Environmental Impacts.