FROM 12 TO 14 SEPTEMBER 2024, THE VASTO SPERW WHALE FESTIVAL PRESENTED THE DOCUMENTARY “SPERW WHALE OPERATION – GEA’S STORY”PRODUCED BY WWF. THIS ADVERTISING FILM TELLS THE STORY OF A YOUNG POTCOL FISH FOUND LIFELESS ON THE COAST OF LAZIO IN 2019 AND ILLUSTRATES THE IMPORTANCE OF ITS RECOVERY FOR THE CONSERVATION AND AWARENESS OF MARINE SPECIES
The history of the GEA sperm whale and the recovery project: a symbol of marine conservation
In 2019, a sperm whale of about 13 meters, named GEA, was found dead and stranded in Montalto di Castro, in the province of Viterbo. After the discovery, the specimen was buried in the presidential estate of Castelporziano, not far from Rome, a place historically linked to the protection of nature.
This measure served to facilitate a natural and controlled decomposition process, without polluting the environment, thus preparing the skeleton for recovery.
The GEA recovery project
Thanks to the collaboration between the Istituto Zooprophylattico Sperimentale Lazio e Toscana (IZSLT) and Casa Pelagos, the interactive museum of the cetacean reserve of the WWF Oasis of Orbetello, GEA’s skeleton was finally recovered in 2024.
One of the most innovative aspects of the process was the use of 3D technology to reconstruct the missing parts of the structure. Over time, some parts of his bones had even deteriorated or disappeared. Which made the integration of digital components necessary. Using 3D scanning and detailed model printing, scientists were able to render a complete and accurate version of the sperm whale.
The role of community and environmental education
An important part of the project was the active involvement of the local community. The children of Tuscany participated in the reconstruction of GEA’s skeleton through educational activities organized by Casa Pelagos and WWF. This experience not only gave them the opportunity to learn about the importance of marine biodiversity, but also to feel part of an initiative of international importance, which has contributed, albeit symbolically, to the rebirth of the specimen.
The cetaceans, now on display at Casa Pelagos, the interactive museum in the cetacean sanctuary of the WWF Oasis of Orbetello, have become a valuable symbol of the marine heritage that must be preserved. GEA’s story aims to draw attention to the threats sperm whales face every day, including pollution, fishing nets and climate change. But let’s go to the festival.
History, activities and objectives of the festival
The Festival of the Seven Sperm Whales, founded in 2014, is an annual reference event for raising awareness and protecting cetaceans and the marine environment. It was created to commemorate the stranding of these cetaceans in Punta Penna (in the province of Viterbo), which took place ten years earlier, and is organized by the municipality of Vasto, in the province of Chieti, in collaboration with several environmental and scientific associations.
The event offers a range of cultural and scientific activities, including documentary screenings, conferences, exhibitions and debates. Each year a central theme is chosen, which can cover different aspects of marine life and environmental protection. Conferences and discussions involve industry experts, researchers and activists, sharing their knowledge and the latest scientific discoveries.
Thanks to its activities, for ten years the meeting has helped create a network of advocates for the protection of cetaceans and contributed to the financing of research and conservation projects.
The appointment for 2024
This year’s event provided an in-depth overview of the project through the preview screening of the documentary “Operation Potvis – The history of GEA”, directed by Emanuele Quartarone.
The film highlighted the teamwork between scientific institutions, environmental associations and the local community, demonstrating the value of multidisciplinary collaboration in environmental conservation.
During the festival, Adriano Argenio, director of the WWF Oasis of Orbetello, discussed the importance of transforming the recovery of GEA into an educational and awareness project. Stefano Palomba, Extraordinary Commissioner of the IZSLT, provided details of the logistical and scientific challenges encountered during the process. Valerio Manfrini, a biologist at the Lazio and Tuscany Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute, instead illustrated how 3D technology was crucial in completing the reconstruction of the skeleton, integrating the missing parts and ensuring an accurate representation of the sperm whale.
But why are these sea creatures so important?
The ecological role of sperm whales
Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) are special animals with a crucial ecological role for the health of marine habitats. As top predators, they regulate the populations of squid and bottom-dwelling fish, maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem.
In addition, their feces contain essential nutrients that promote the growth of phytoplankton, the base of the marine food chain. This process not only supports marine life, but also contributes to the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. Very important factor in the fight against climate change.
The situation of sperm whales in Italy
In Italy, these beautiful cetaceans are present in the Mediterranean Sea, but they face numerous challenges that threaten their survival. Marine pollution is a major threat, with plastic and chemicals damaging their health. Sperm whales can accidentally ingest plastic. Which causes intestinal blockages or toxicity.
Another danger is fishing nets, which can trap these animals, causing suffocation or serious injuries. This phenomenon, known as “bycatch”, is one of the leading causes of death among cetaceans in the Mediterranean.
Climate change is also changing marine habitats and food availability for sperm whales. Changes in water temperature and composition can affect their feeding and migratory habits, making their survival even more uncertain.
Furthermore, human activities such as maritime tourism and naval operations can disrupt their activities, altering their natural behavior and endangering their well-being.
There is therefore an urgent need to increase public awareness and promote concrete actions for the conservation of sperm whales and marine ecosystems.