CETANET– The network for cetaceans, science and the protection of the Gulf of Tribugá

If you have ever dreamed of becoming a marine biologist and conserving pristine marine ecosystems: CETANET brings that dream a little closer—not just for you, but also for local communities and our oceans.

What is CETANET?

CETANET, funded by the HERING Stiftung Natur und Mensch, is Oceanidad´s first project to build a growing network that connects science, conciousness, communities, and conservation efforts along Colombia’s Pacific coast. Together with local community members, partner NGOs, and international support, we study the health of dolphins and whales and develop strategies to protect their fragile marine habitats.

Why the project matters

CETANET studies the health of cetaceans in the Gulf of Tribugá – a global MISSION BLUE Hope Spot, hotspot, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

Despite its ecological importance, almost no data exist on the health of cetaceans in this area.

By analyzing the microbiomes of dolphins and whales, the project aims to better understand marine ecosystem health, contribute to the empowerment of local communities, and support long-term conservation in this unique coastal paradise.

Activities of the project

  • Monitoring

    Using a GPS we carry out seven health monitorings along predefined transects in the Gulf of Tribugá, where we take biopsy samples of some of the local dolphins and intent to sample whale blow using drones. The collected samples will be analysed for their microbioal community composition using 16S amplicon sequencing.

  • Community involvement

    The local community is at the heart of our project: Three local fishermen receive advanced theoretical and practical training through community science workshops. It is them who carry out the monitorings because it is their territory. Oceanidad is only there to capacitate and eventually hand over the monitoring to the local community.

  • Networking

    The CETANET project includes building a network of local communities, national institutions, and international partners to strengthen conservation efforts and support the long-term protection of the Gulf of Tribugá. if you are interested in joining the network, please don`t hesitate to send us a message.

  • Science communication

    Every year in june the community of Jurubidá celebrates the festival of the meón crab. In 2026 we want to participate in this community event to help raise awareness about marine conservation, support local culture and share the results of this project with the wider community, so that everyone is aware of the activities in their region.

CETANET is open to your ideas, collaborations, and supporters.

Are you a student, researcher or NGO leader?

Please sen us a message to see how we can collaborate.

Do you want to make a difference?

Check out our get involved page and spread the word!

Do you want to donate and help the project?

Thank you so much! You can make a hudge contribution by donating.