What Is Cetacean Morbillivirus?

Scientists have detected a deadly virus in the breath of whales in the Arctic Circle, linking it to mass deaths and strandings of marine mammals. The discovery marks the first time cetacean morbillivirus has been found circulating in Arctic waters.

Drone Technology Enables Novel Detection
Researchers used drones to collect samples from whale breath, known as blow, by hovering over whales at the moment of exhalation. The breath samples were captured on petri dishes attached to drones, allowing non-invasive monitoring of wild whales in the Arctic.

Study Published in International Journal
The findings were detailed in the study titled “Deep breath out: molecular survey of selected pathogens in blow and skin biopsies from North Atlantic cetaceans”, published in the journal BMC Veterinary Research.

What Is Cetacean Morbillivirus?
Cetacean morbillivirus is a highly infectious virus affecting marine mammals such as whales, dolphins and porpoises—collectively known as cetaceans. Since its first identification in 1987, the virus has caused major outbreaks worldwide, particularly in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean regions.

Impact on Marine Mammals
The virus attacks the respiratory and neurological systems, often leading to mass strandings and deaths. It spreads through direct contact and respiratory droplets, making it especially dangerous for social marine species.

Why the Finding Matters
Its detection in the Arctic ecosystem raises fresh concerns about the impact of climate change and shifting marine habitats, which may be enabling pathogens to spread into previously unaffected regions.

How Whales Breathe
Whales and dolphins are air-breathing mammals that inhale and exhale through blowholes located on their heads. Unlike fish, they do not have gills and must surface regularly to breathe, making breath analysis a powerful tool for health monitoring.

Source: IE