Abstract

Building conservation tools in marine protected areas requires knowledge on species abundance, distribution and threats. Ocean gliders are increasingly used to gather acoustic data on cetacean species. In this study we assessed the effectiveness of this approach in the Agoa Sanctuary (a marine protected area for cetaceans in the French West Indies) by analysing results from four (04) glider campaigns carried out in 2021 and 2022. We identified and mapped cetacean detections in the acoustic data obtained. Results from the glider campaigns revealed dolphins and sperm whales evidences in the recordings. However, most of the detections made were dominated by mechanical noises from the glider. Additionally, the glider's ability to monitor ocean parameters as well as study underwater noise and marine traffic in relation to threats to cetaceans was revealed. The results from this study allowed us to positively assess glider's effectiveness in acquiring acoustic data on cetaceans in this marine protected area where dimensions are big challenge in implementating research and conservation actions.