Variation in external morphology of resident bottlenose dolphins in Bahía San Antonio, Patagonia, Argentina

A photo-identification study carried out in Bahia San Antonio (Patagonia Argentina) showed a variation in external morphology among year-round resident bottlenose dolphins. Out of 63 individually identified bottlenose dolphins, 15 were considered year-round residents of which three show variations in external morphology: they have a more falcate dorsal fin, darker coloration and shorter beak, physical characteristics described for the regional form of bottlenose dolphins present in the more southern province Chubut. The three morphologic distinct individuals, with one associated calf, could be re-identified in the study area up to 10 times over all the different seasons and up to now, no other bottlenose dolphins with similar characteristics could be observed in the area. On all occasions, they were re-identified in close occasions with each other and on 8 occasions in close association with other identified individuals. So far it was believed that the two regional forms of bottlenose dolphins present in Argentina were isolated. This communication is meant to document the residency and interaction of both regional forms in the same area.