Chilean marine mammals: antecedents and present status.

Abstract

The major difficulties associated with the study of marine mammals are indicatcd. Data are given on chilean marine mammals populations; protection measures adopted and current State of the rcsearch is summarized. The authors propose alternativo ways to improve and develop rcsearch at a regional, national and intemational level. Data on Mustelidae (1 sp); Phocidae (5 spp); Otariidac (4 spp); Balaenopteridae (7 spp); Balacnidae (2 spp); Physeteridae (2 spp); Ziphiidae (3 spp); Dclphinidae (11 spp) and Phocoenidae (1 sp) are discussed.