Tuesday, 12 August 2025 Assist. Prof. Tilen Genov joins rare whale research in St Vincent and the Grenadines

Assist. Prof. Tilen Genov from UP FAMNIT’s Department of Biodiversity is currently in St Vincent and the Grenadines, taking part in an international research expedition focused on whales and dolphins—most notably the elusive dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima), one of the least understood whale species globally.

The expedition, led by Assoc. Prof. Jeremy Kiszka from the Florida International University, brings together researchers aiming to better understand the occurrence, abundance, social structure, ecology, and vocal behaviour of dwarf sperm whales. Data is also being collected on a variety of other species, including spinner dolphins, pantropical spotted dolphins, Fraser’s dolphins, and sperm whales.

Assist. Prof. Genov plays a key supporting role in the project, with primary responsibilities including operating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) for aerial observations and contributing to the study of social structure in dwarf sperm whales. He also assists with general fieldwork, contributing to a multidisciplinary team effort. The researchers are using drones, hydrophones, and photo-identification techniques to study these rarely seen marine mammals.

This research not only seeks to advance scientific knowledge but also to support future conservation efforts by providing much-needed baseline data on a species still shrouded in mystery.

We look forward to new findings from the research team that will continue to uncover the secrets of these deep-diving ocean dwellers.