04 December 2024: The report of the Scientific Committee Working Group on Genetics is now available!

The NAMMCO Scientific Committee Working Group on Genetics held its first meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 8–9 October 2024, chaired by Morten Tange Olsen (Globe Institute, Denmark). The meeting marked a significant step towards improving the interpretations and reliability of genetic data used in NAMMCO’s stock assessments and thus the overall quality of the Scientific Committee’s advice. The group reviewed genetic connectivity and population structures for species of critical interest, including pilot whales, narwhals, and belugas, alongside insights into the genetics of dolphins, seals, walruses, and harbour porpoises. Discussions identified key knowledge gaps and prioritised recommendations to guide future research and data collection efforts.

The full report, which includes the group’s findings and recommendations, is available here .