01 April 2026

How to check the health of a killer whale: VNIRO has released a unique guide in four languages

Scientists of the Scientific Research Center of the Russian Federation "All—Russian Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography" (VNIRO) have developed the first comprehensive method for examining killer whale blood (Orcinus orca) - the publication is available in four languages at once. The work will help experts around the world to more accurately assess the health status of these marine predators.

The author of the manual is Ivan Belokobylsky, Chief Specialist of the Marine Mammals Department of the VNIRO Department of Commercial Aquatic Organisms.

The methodology is based on original studies of a group of ten individuals in the waters of the Sea of Japan.

The manual describes in detail three methods of collecting biomaterial: through the vascular systems of the pectoral, dorsal and caudal fins. In addition, for the first time, the reference values of general and biochemical blood tests have been systematized.

Now veterinarians and researchers will be able to accurately interpret the health status of killer whales in different habitats, be it wildlife or aquariums. The results of the work are especially important for monitoring marine mammal populations and their veterinary support.

You can get acquainted with the content on the platform of the scientific electronic library eLibrary.RU on the link: https://www.elibrary.ru/item.asp?id=84101835 .

VNIRO Press Service