A rare species of dolphin – the Risso’s dolphin – was recently recorded in the Ikaria Trench, an impressive underwater canyon reaching depths of 1,400 meters, according to an announcement by the Archipelagos Institute.

As noted in the statement, “Relatively unknown to the general public, the Risso’s dolphin is the largest dolphin species found in Greek seas – reaching up to 4 meters in length and weighing as much as 500 kilograms.”

The Archipelagos Institute first recorded the migration of Risso’s dolphins in the eastern Aegean in the autumn of 2000, and systematic research has continued ever since. Monitoring these populations and filling in knowledge gaps are crucial for their protection.

These dolphins migrate through the Mediterranean in small groups, typically traveling over deep sea canyons and trenches. They are known for their extraordinary diving abilities.

They can dive deeper than 300 meters and hold their breath for over 30 minutes. However, they are primarily threatened by overfishing and marine pollution.