Atlantic humpback dolphin (Sousa teuszii) in Senegal
Exploring the mysteries of the Atlantic humpback dolphin (Sousa teuszii) along Africa’s west coast has become the mission of marine biologist Diana Seck from Senegal. With the goal of generating vital information about this critically endangered species, Seck, a research assistant at the African Aquatic Conservation Fund, aims to create the first-ever photo identification catalog. This catalog will provide data on the dolphin’s population size, habitat use, migration patterns, and long-term threats.
During two survey missions in the Saloum Delta, Seck has already identified more than 100 individual dolphins and expects to identify even more in the future. This valuable data will help determine the population size, which is believed to be the largest within the species’ range, as well as shed light on their behavior and migration patterns.
Seck began her training in boat surveys and photo-identification in 2021 and has since transformed the project into her Master’s research project.
As a recipient of the Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP) grant from the New England Aquarium’s Marine Conservation Action Fund (MCAF), Seck recognizes the project’s potential to assist other countries in studying the dolphin. The photo ID catalog can serve as a template for their own research, addressing the lack of information on Sousa teuszii and facilitating population estimates using the Mark-Recapture Analysis technique for future conservation plans.
Sengalese biologist Diana Seck, while programming.
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Diana Seck’s passion for nature and the environment, nurtured since her early childhood in Senegal, has led her to her current role as a marine biologist. Growing up in Senegal’s capital, Dakar, Seck completed her education there, establishing a strong foundation for her future endeavors.
After graduating from the Lycée des Parcelles Assainies in Dakar with a science baccalaureate in 2013, Seck pursued an undergraduate degree in aquaculture at Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis. She also embarked on a master’s degree in aquaculture at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar.
Seck’s journey took an unexpected turn when she received an email from her university about a job opportunity as a research assistant and administrative assistant. Despite her initial doubts, Seck decided to apply, recognizing the potential for growth and development. Her application was successful, leading her to the research assistant role that coincided with the launch of the Atlantic humpback dolphin project in the Saloum Delta.
Over time, Seck’s self-assurance grew, confirming that she was destined for this line of work. Her commitment now lies in becoming a leading expert in her field, with a focus on building capacity in the region.
Seck emphasizes the importance of protecting the over 35 species of marine mammals in West Africa, especially in the face of climate change, environmental degradation, overfishing, and bycatch. As a Senegalese woman based in Senegal, she brings a unique perspective to the research and envisions a future where local experts lead the conservation efforts for species endemic to the region. To achieve this, Seck believes in empowering and educating the youth who are eager to make a difference.
Atlantic humpback dolphin, Sousa teuszii, in Senegal
Working in collaboration with biologist Lucy Keith-Diagne, the founder and director of the African Aquatic Conservation Fund in Senegal, Seck is pushing boundaries and unraveling the secrets of the Atlantic humpback dolphin.
In 2006, Keith-Diagne arrived in Africa at the invitation of a colleague and dedicated the following seven years to studying African Manatees in Gabon. Her research aimed to map the distinct populations of this elusive, nocturnal mammal, whose habitat spans 21 countries along the Atlantic coast of Africa.
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