Field sampling techniques and ecotoxicologic biomarkers in cetaceans

The main aim of this chapter is to describe the most suitable sampling methods applicable to nonlethal ecotoxicologic studies in cetaceans and to identify, among the various categories of selected biomarker techniques, the series of markers that best allows us to diagnose the presence of a specific class of pollutants, or a mixture of them. The authors also describe a series of case studies with a special focus on interspecific variability of biomarker responses, the application of the biomarkers approach in cetaceans inhabiting hot spot areas, and in worldwide monitoring of sentinel species. This chapter will focus essentially on the skin matrix and on two study key areas: the Mediterranean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.