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Small cetaceans (dolphins, porpoises, and small toothed whales) occur from the poles to the tropics, and from freshwater habitats to the open ocean. Most ecological research has focused on the influence of abiotic factors on the abundance, distribution, and behavior of these species. The ecological impacts of small cetaceans on communities and ecosystems remain poorly quantified. Their movement patterns, often high local and regional abundances across a range of ecosystems, and high metabolic rates suggest that small cetaceans could have large effects on ecosystem structure, dynamics, and function through a variety of mechanisms. These include top-down (e.g., direct predation and risk effects) and bottom-up effects (e.g., translocation of nutrients within and across ecosystems), but also behavior-mediated processes where these predators can facilitate access to resources to other predators or modify the physical properties of habitat (e.g., bioturbation). Most small cetaceans can be consumed by other marine predators, particularly killer whales (Orcinus orca) and large sharks. Although consumption rates of small cetaceans can be high, there is a paucity of information on their effects on population sizes or behaviors of their prey. Mass-balance ecosystem models suggest that small cetaceans may impact the populations of short-lived prey species (particularly fish and cephalopods), but other factors (e.g., eutrophication and fisheries) also affect ecosystem functioning and population trends. Delphinids can also mediate the translocation and recycling of limiting nutrients between spatially distinct ecosystems on a diel basis. Despite intriguing possibilities, large gaps remain in our understanding of the roles and importance of small cetaceans in aquatic ecosystems, both marine and freshwater.

International research is necessary in aquatic sciences because water moves across borders. Historically, international collaborations have been useful in conducting oceanographic research programs, which span large distances and require several funding sources. Although valuable, international research can have unforeseen challenges to the unprepared researcher. Communication with an international collaborator and professional development training can mitigate these pitfalls. The Limnology and Oceanography Research Exchange Program (LOREX) is an opportunity for graduate students to gain experience developing international collaborations. The LOREX program aims to help graduate students develop connections and gain experience in international research. During the summer of 2019 and spring of 2020, 26 graduate students from 24 U.S. institutions will travel to one of six different host institutions to conduct a research project that they developed with an international collaborator. To prepare for their research experience, LOREX participants participated in training programs during the 2019 Aquatic Sciences Meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The first group of LOREX graduate students will share their experience through social media and blog posts throughout their journey. Applications are now open for the second cohort of LOREX participants, and potential applicants are encouraged to contact potential collaborators to develop a research project.

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