This book took ten years of my life.
A decade of diving, dreaming, drifting. Of carrying my camera across oceans — from French Polynesia to Wallis and Futuna, from New Caledonia to Mayotte, Nosy Be, La Réunion and Zanzibar… even to the Sea of Cortez, in search of the great white shark I once thought to be the ultimate predator — until I met the orcas in Mayotte’s lagoon. This book is not just about the ocean. It’s about the people I’ve met along the way: scientists, volunteers, photographers, travelers, and all those whose love for nature and the sea helped shape my path. 
The Role of Encounters
First of all — I just love being in the water. Watching animals move in silence. Observing how fragile they are — and how our behavior as humans, especially in isolated regions, often makes or breaks their survival. Like the time I saw a Filipino trawler fishing illegally in Fijian waters, chasing sharks to fuel China’s appetite for “aphrodisiac” fins. Nothing is ever black or white. Without ecotourism, these places would be left to poachers and drift nets. But with the right resources, locals can protect what feeds them — both economically and spiritually. 
Why This Book Was Born
At first, I didn’t want to make a book. I’ve always preferred video — movement, sound, immersion. (You’ll find some links to my underwater films in this digital version.) But over time, I started collecting moments. Frozen fragments of encounters that seemed to speak louder than words. Turtles nesting in Mayotte. A blacktip reef shark gliding through shallow coral. A pod of dolphins at sunset. And with it, a sense of urgency grew — to protect what I was witnessing. So I made this book. Not to tell my story, but to share these encounters — brief for you, perhaps. Just a few pages. But for me, they were months, sometimes years of waiting, returning, trying again. Until the perfect moment finally came. How to read this book?After your purchase, you'll receive an instant download link. The book is delivered as a 204 MB EPUB file — easy to open and read on most devices.
Need help? You can contact me anytime — I'm here to guide you through. A journey that starts with a simple click
Stories from Beneath the Surface
There was this time my dive partner and I descended onto a familiar reef — or so we thought. After a few minutes searching left and right for a coral block that usually serves as a landmark, we found… nothing. We surfaced, puzzled — only to realize we had been caught by a current pulling us far from the coast. We drifted… for hours. Five of them. Every kick seemed to push us further. Until a fisherman, returning from the open ocean with a massive sailfish on board, spotted us and brought us back to safety. That was the first time I saw a sailfish. And let me tell you — I had no complaints that day. Another time, I was fixated on photographing a clownfish between the tentacles of its anemone — carefully waiting for the perfect alignment. When I surfaced, the other divers laughed: “You missed it!” They showed me a video of four manta rays swirling right above me for over fifteen minutes… and I hadn’t noticed. But that’s the thing: as a photographer, you must know what you’re looking for — and stay with it. That day, I had a macro lens. The mantas were stunning, but not the image I came for. The clownfish was. 
Why This Book Matters
Over the years, I went from travel photographer to underwater photographer, then to wildlife photographer and now, I feel it’s my duty to focus on conservation. To tell stories that matter. Because the planet is changing. Fast. And thanks to your support, I can tell the story of the last humpback dolphins of Mayotte — vanishing, blending, hybridizing with other species out of desperation. I can give my photos to local NGOs like Oulanga Na Nyamba, who work tirelessly to protect sea turtles in Mayotte. I can write for media outlets who raise awareness about coral bleaching, plastic pollution, ocean acidification and warming seas. Yes — thanks to you, these images travel. Thanks to you, these stories take shape. And it’s to make sure these encounters between nature and people keep happening… that I’ve spent the last ten years underwater. 
Why Sound of Silence ?
I didn’t even like that song in 6th grade. I didn’t understand it. Now I do. Because I took the time to listen. And that’s how we change. When we’re finally ready to hear. Sound of Silence – The Ocean QuestA 139-page book about what’s really happening in the ocean. Facts, images, choices. This is a statement. This is what we stand for. □ A digital gift for the first 100 readers.  In the mysterious depths of the ocean, every species has had to adapt to the relentless laws of physics to survive. Among the champions of hydrodynamics, dolphins and sharks dominate the waters, reaching impressive speeds and navigating with an ease that defies comprehension. Behind their performance lies an evolutionary secret: the structure of their skin.  The Dolphin's Secret: Intelligent Skin Dolphins, true acrobats of the ocean, can slice through the water at speeds exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph). The common dolphin (Delphinus delphis), for example, is known for its bursts of speed and ability to surf the waves. Its secret lies partly in the dynamic structure of its skin. Composed of an elastic outer layer and a deeper layer of collagen, their skin absorbs and dampens water turbulence. This phenomenon, known as drag reduction, allows them to minimize resistance and conserve energy. Studies have shown that dolphin skin contains microscopic folds that adjust according to hydrodynamic forces, reducing vortices that would otherwise slow them down. Some researchers are now drawing inspiration from this structure to design anti-friction materials for the naval and aerospace industries. One notable example is the development of dolphin-inspired coatings for submarines and ships. Engineers have tested flexible hull materials that mimic dolphin skin’s ability to adjust to water pressure, leading to reduced fuel consumption and increased speed. This technology could revolutionize underwater transportation by making vessels more energy-efficient and maneuverable.  The Living Armor of Sharks While dolphin skin is flexible and dynamic, shark skin is a true microscopic armor. Covered in tiny dermal denticles—small rigid structures similar to serrated scales—it plays a crucial role in their speed and maneuverability. The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), for example, can reach speeds of up to 56 km/h (35 mph) thanks to this adaptation. The dermal denticles create a textured surface that channels water into fine layers, reducing drag and increasing swimming efficiency. This unique coating also limits the growth of algae and parasites, an evolutionary advantage that allows sharks to maintain optimal hydrodynamics without being slowed down by unwanted organisms. Inspired by this adaptation, engineers have developed biomimetic coatings for ship hulls and swimsuits. In fact, some shark-skin-inspired swimsuits were banned from the Olympic Games after it was proven that they provided swimmers with an unfair advantage.  Sharkskin: The Banned Technology In the 2000s, sports equipment manufacturers designed swimsuits inspired by shark skin, called sharkskin suits. These suits were covered with micro-relief structures mimicking the dermal denticles of sharks, reducing drag and improving buoyancy. They allowed swimmers to shave off crucial fractions of a second in competition. Their effectiveness was so remarkable that at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, over 90% of medalists wore these suits, breaking numerous world records. In response to this disparity, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) decided to ban these swimsuits in 2010, arguing that they provided an artificial advantage beyond the athletes' natural abilities. However, while based on the concept of shark denticles, these suits did not perfectly replicate the complex structure of real shark skin. Shark skin functions not only through its texture but also through the flexibility and dynamics of its denticles, which adapt to water flow. Despite its biomimetic inspiration, sharkskin technology remained an approximation of nature's perfection.  Why Can't Humans Compete? Unlike dolphins and sharks, the human body is not designed for optimal hydrodynamics. Our smooth skin creates more friction with water, and our muscles are not optimized for efficient propulsion in this element. Even with cutting-edge equipment, we remain far from the natural efficiency of these marine predators.  Two Strategies, One Goal
Dolphins and sharks have taken different evolutionary paths to achieve the same result: fluid and efficient navigation. While dolphin skin adapts in real time to turbulence, shark skin stiffens and channels water flow. Two fascinating biomechanical solutions that highlight nature's ingenuity. In laboratories worldwide, these natural marvels are inspiring innovations in fields ranging from maritime transport to sports equipment. Prototypes of dolphin-inspired submarines are being developed, and biomimetic underwater drones based on shark skin could one day revolutionize ocean exploration. Once again, the ocean proves to be an infinite reservoir of solutions for the future. And beyond dolphins and sharks, other marine creatures hold secrets of hydrodynamic perfection. From the streamlined bodies of orcas to the undulating propulsion of cuttlefish, the ocean continues to challenge our understanding and inspire the next wave of human innovation. 
Today, I wanted to talk to you about something else that weighs on my heart.
I discovered the animal sanctuary La Tanière by chance, during a stop near Chartres, in France. This extraordinary place gives shelter to animals rescued from customs seizures, circuses, illegal breeding operations, or tourist attractions. Many arrive broken — physically or emotionally — and the team there does everything to heal them, rehabilitate them, or at the very least, offer them a dignified life… or a dignified end. 
Among the stories that left a mark on me is Isabella, a tigress whose claws and teeth were brutally removed so that tourists could pose next to her without risk. This act of cruelty was reportedly committed in India. Or these lions abandoned by a Spanish circus, left starving and untreated in their cages.
This sanctuary touched me deeply. It opened my eyes to something devastating: the wildlife trafficking trade, which is not just a distant problem. Even in France, over 3,000 wild animals are seized every year by customs. Globally, wildlife trafficking is the fourth largest criminal activity, after drugs, weapons, and human trafficking — worth over $23 billion annually and affecting millions of animals each year. Decline of Iconic Wildlife Species (1970–2020)
The What We Lost series was born out of that shock. It pays tribute to endangered species — tigers, elephants, rhinos, lions, giraffes — but also to our lost connection with the wild. Each image is a silent prayer, a fragile memory, a way to say: Look at what we are losing.
And let’s be honest: our actions as tourists often fuel this suffering. Behind an exotic photo or a selfie with a wild animal, there may be hidden chains, forced obedience, or lifelong captivity. Just for a few seconds of content. We should never let a simple Instagram post justify that kind of cruelty. 
30% of all sales from this series will be donated to the La Tanière sanctuary.
This is not about money. It’s about responsibility. Zampa Limited Edition 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Origin: France Mutilated for the vanity of men, Zampa was rescued from illegal wildlife trade. Now safe, his gaze still carries the weight of violence, and the quiet dignity of survival. This portrait is part of the What We Lost series — a tribute to those we failed, and those we can still protect. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Brothers of Land – What We Lost
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Kenya, East Africa Two rhinoceroses stand side by side, quiet and watchful. In their massive stillness lies a fragile truth — one step from extinction, one breath from disappearance. This portrait from the What We Lost series honors their presence, and warns of what we may never see again. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Follow Me – What We Lost
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Kenya, East Africa A baby elephant walks in the shadow of its mother, step by step across the dry earth. It’s a quiet lesson in protection, legacy, and hope. Part of the What We Lost series, this image speaks of the bond we still have time to preserve — if we choose to. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Zampa – The Gaze – Limited Edition of 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: France His eyes hold the weight of what he’s endured — and what he remembers. In this close portrait of Zampa, rescued from illegal captivity, we are faced with more than an animal: we are met by a soul. Part of the What We Lost series, this image is a mirror held up to ourselves. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Little Lemur – What We Lost – Limited Edition of 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Madagascar Clinging to the back of its mother, a baby lemur peers out with wide, uncertain eyes. In a forest growing quieter each year, this tiny gaze speaks volumes. Part of the What We Lost series, this image is a tender reminder of the fragility — and beauty — of what remains. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Isabella – What We Lost – Limited Edition of 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: France Behind the wire and beyond the scars, Isabella still walks like royalty. Rescued from abuse, her gaze carries both defiance and grace — the quiet strength of a survivor. Part of the What We Lost series, this portrait honors her story, and all the invisible ones like hers. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Clinging to Silence Koalas
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Kangaroo Island, Australia Two koalas embrace the last branches of a shrinking world. High in the eucalyptus, their silence speaks of wildfires past, habitats lost, and a delicate balance at risk. This intimate portrait, part of the What We Lost series, reminds us that even the gentlest lives can vanish quietly. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format.
Today, I wanted to talk to you about something else that weighs on my heart.
I discovered the animal sanctuary La Tanière by chance, during a stop near Chartres, in France. This extraordinary place gives shelter to animals rescued from customs seizures, circuses, illegal breeding operations, or tourist attractions. Many arrive broken — physically or emotionally — and the team there does everything to heal them, rehabilitate them, or at the very least, offer them a dignified life… or a dignified end. 
Among the stories that left a mark on me is Isabella, a tigress whose claws and teeth were brutally removed so that tourists could pose next to her without risk. This act of cruelty was reportedly committed in India. Or these lions abandoned by a Spanish circus, left starving and untreated in their cages.
This sanctuary touched me deeply. It opened my eyes to something devastating: the wildlife trafficking trade, which is not just a distant problem. Even in France, over 3,000 wild animals are seized every year by customs. Globally, wildlife trafficking is the fourth largest criminal activity, after drugs, weapons, and human trafficking — worth over $23 billion annually and affecting millions of animals each year. Decline of Iconic Wildlife Species (1970–2020)
The What We Lost series was born out of that shock. It pays tribute to endangered species — tigers, elephants, rhinos, lions, giraffes — but also to our lost connection with the wild. Each image is a silent prayer, a fragile memory, a way to say: Look at what we are losing.
And let’s be honest: our actions as tourists often fuel this suffering. Behind an exotic photo or a selfie with a wild animal, there may be hidden chains, forced obedience, or lifelong captivity. Just for a few seconds of content. We should never let a simple Instagram post justify that kind of cruelty.
30% of all sales from this series will be donated to the La Tanière sanctuary.
This is not about money. It’s about responsibility. 
Manta Rays: Graceful Giants
Manta rays, with wingspans reaching up to 7 meters, are fascinating creatures that primarily inhabit the warm waters of tropical oceans. Their name, "manta," comes from the Spanish word meaning "sail," a perfectly fitting description for their majestic shape as they glide gracefully through the water, almost as if they are flying in the ocean. Yet, despite their imposing size, manta rays are peaceful creatures, feeding primarily on plankton and small fish, which they filter through their mouths while swimming with incredible fluidity. 
In Mayotte's lagoon, manta rays are omnipresent between March and June, creating an impressive spectacle for divers and snorkelers lucky enough to observe them. From the surface, with a mask and snorkel, one can see them move with hypnotic grace, spinning above the reefs, performing smooth pirouettes and slow but powerful movements. They move slowly, sometimes accompanied by pilot fish that seem to play by their side. But this ballet is not just a visual spectacle. For researchers and naturalists, each encounter with a manta ray is an opportunity to collect valuable data on their behavior, movements, and health.
Unique Identification: The Patterns on Their Bodies
One of the most intriguing aspects of manta rays is the ability to identify them individually through distinctive patterns on their bellies. Each manta ray has a unique design, much like a human fingerprint, which can be used to recognize and track them over the years. These patterns, often compared to geometric shapes, vary from one ray to another and are usually located on the ventral area, although they can sometimes be found on the back. This natural identification system allows researchers and naturalists to monitor the movements, behaviors, and habits of these marine creatures over time. The patterns consist of small spots and lines that, when observed from different angles, form unique shapes. Thanks to these characteristics, scientists have created databases of these patterns and use identification software to recognize rays in different regions of the world. This not only helps to understand their migrations and interactions but also plays a crucial role in conservation by specifically targeting individuals at risk due to harmful practices like illegal fishing. Over the years, research programs have built identification databases for manta rays, enabling the cataloging of thousands of individuals across the oceans. These studies also provide essential information about their life cycle, behavior, and reproduction. Identification by pattern is a true breakthrough for marine science and plays a key role in species conservation management. 
A Fascinating Social Behavior
Manta rays are not only solitary creatures; they are also known for their complex social behaviors. They often form small groups that gather around cleaning stations, where they go to rid themselves of parasites and skin debris. These cleaning behaviors, often seen around cleaning stations, show how manta rays, despite their size, are sensitive to social interactions. Researchers have also observed behaviors suggesting long-term relationships between rays, though these theories are still being developed. What is certain is that manta rays possess remarkable intelligence and adaptability, making them particularly fascinating to study. 
Threats to Manta Rays
Unfortunately, manta rays are now threatened by several factors, primarily overfishing, pollution, and the loss of their natural habitat. Although commercial fishing of manta rays is banned in many countries, they are sometimes accidentally caught in fishing nets or targeted for their gills, which are used in certain traditional remedies. Climate change, which affects coral reefs and marine ecosystems, also has detrimental effects on manta rays by reducing their natural habitats. In this context, it is essential to adopt a proactive conservation approach and continue efforts to protect these exceptional marine animals. Tracking manta rays, using techniques like pattern identification, is an excellent way to assess their health and better understand their behavior to protect them. 
Manta Ray Conservation: A Critical Issue
The preservation of manta rays requires a global approach. Effective protection measures must be implemented to ensure their future in a healthy marine environment. Efforts should focus on reducing pollution, establishing marine protected areas, and regulating fishing to limit accidental captures. Scientists and enthusiasts like those at Seablue Safari play a crucial role in raising awareness and collecting vital data about these fascinating creatures. A key player in manta ray conservation is Manta Trust, a global charity dedicated to the research and protection of manta rays and their habitats. Manta Trust works alongside scientists, local communities, and conservation organizations to monitor manta populations, establish marine protected areas, and advocate for better conservation policies. They are at the forefront of educating the public about the importance of manta rays and supporting sustainable practices that help protect these magnificent creatures. You can help contribute to manta ray conservation by supporting organizations like Manta Trust through donations, participating in their research programs, and promoting sustainable practices in your local community. Every effort counts in the fight to protect these majestic creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit. In the lagoon of Mayotte, manta rays continue to fascinate and captivate, reminding us all of the importance of protecting our oceans for future generations.  Fineart Ocean Photography – “We Are Orcas”Dive deeper into the world of cetaceans with this fine art black & white piece, 
The mangrove forests of Mayotte are among the most essential and diverse ecosystems in the world. With their distinctive roots emerging from the water like natural sculptures, mangroves provide a unique environment that supports a wide variety of wildlife. These coastal forests, which grow in saltwater, are often overlooked, yet they are some of the most productive ecosystems on Earth.
The Hidden Importance of Mangroves
Mangrove forests serve as the nursery for countless species of fish, crabs, and other marine life. The young fish find shelter among the mangrove roots, where they can grow and develop away from predators in the open ocean. For many species, including commercially important ones, mangroves are essential for their survival, offering shelter and protection during their early stages of life. But the benefits of mangroves go beyond their role as a safe haven for marine creatures. Mangrove forests are also a vital defense against coastal erosion and storms. Their dense root systems trap sediment, stabilize shorelines, and reduce the impact of large waves. In the face of climate change, mangroves are increasingly recognized for their role in mitigating the effects of rising sea levels. 
A Rich Biodiversity
The mangrove ecosystems of Mayotte are teeming with life. You can spot a variety of species, including the elusive mudskippers that leap across the mudflats, brightly colored crabs, and even rare bird species. The diversity of life in these ecosystems is nothing short of extraordinary, as they offer a perfect blend of terrestrial and marine habitats. Among the most iconic inhabitants of the mangroves are the mangrove monitor lizards, which use the area as a hunting ground. Meanwhile, the forest is also home to several species of mangrove-dwelling insects and amphibians, making it a fascinating place for biodiversity enthusiasts.
Mangroves and Climate Change: The Crucial Role
In recent years, the survival of mangrove forests has become more critical as they play an essential role in combating climate change. Not only do they store carbon in their soils and biomass, but they also act as buffers for coastal communities. In areas where mangroves thrive, they absorb much more carbon than terrestrial forests, making them vital for climate change mitigation. These forests are true carbon sinks, and protecting them can help in the fight against global warming. □ Discover the artwork inspired by this story: → Two Queens for a Kingdom – Limited Edition Fine Art Print
Protecting the Mangrove: A Call for Action
Despite their importance, mangrove forests face numerous threats. Deforestation, coastal development, pollution, and the effects of climate change are all contributing to the degradation of these vital ecosystems. Across the world, including in Mayotte, efforts are being made to preserve and restore these forests. Local conservation initiatives, including replanting programs, are helping to revive mangrove areas that have been damaged by human activity. One of the ways we can all help is by supporting these restoration efforts and advocating for policies that protect mangrove habitats. We must work together to ensure that these silent guardians of our coasts continue to thrive and protect our oceans and communities for generations to come. 
Mangrove Conservation: How You Can Make a Difference
You can support mangrove conservation by:
As we continue to witness the effects of climate change, it’s vital that we recognize and protect the ecosystems that play such a crucial role in maintaining the balance of life on Earth. Mangroves are not only beautiful; they are essential for a thriving planet. 
Every year on June 8th, World Oceans Day reminds us of the crucial importance of this vast blue territory that covers more than 70% of our planet’s surface. More than just a majestic landscape, the ocean is a climate regulator, a source of life, and a sanctuary for exceptional biodiversity. Yet today, it is more threatened than ever. Let’s dive into this fascinating ecosystem that shapes our future.
The Vital Role of the Oceans
The ocean plays a central role in stabilizing the global climate. It absorbs nearly a quarter of the carbon dioxide emissions produced by human activity and generates more than 50% of the oxygen we breathe. Its currents regulate temperatures, influence climate patterns, and maintain the fragile balance of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Beneath its shimmering surface, the ocean harbors unparalleled biological richness. From microscopic plankton to majestic whales, every species plays a role in the great symphony of marine life—and in our own lives as well. 
Oceans in Peril
Despite their vastness, the oceans are fragile. Plastic pollution contaminates their waters even in the most remote areas, from the Galápagos Islands to Antarctica. Overfishing threatens essential species like bluefin tuna, disrupting the balance of food chains. Ocean acidification, a direct consequence of excess CO2 in the atmosphere, weakens coral reefs and endangers the survival of many marine organisms. 
The Dangers of the Future
If we continue to neglect the health of the oceans, the consequences will be dramatic—not only for marine life but for humanity as a whole. Rising sea levels, caused by melting ice and the thermal expansion of seawater, threaten millions of people living along coastlines. Increasing acidification will further disrupt marine ecosystems, impacting fisheries and endangering food security for many communities. Additionally, the loss of marine biodiversity could have cascading effects across the entire planet, leading to major ecological and economic imbalances. 
Toward Greater Protection
Faced with these threats, protecting the oceans has become a global emergency. Marine protected areas are expanding, aiming to preserve essential habitats and limit human impact. In 2023, the United Nations adopted a historic treaty for the protection of the high seas—an important step in conserving international waters. Local and community-led initiatives are also growing: mangrove restoration, coral regeneration, and sustainable fishing programs offer hope for future generations. 
How Can We Take Action?
Preserving the oceans depends on simple but essential actions: reducing our plastic consumption, choosing sustainably sourced seafood, supporting organizations dedicated to marine conservation, and raising awareness about the importance of this vital ecosystem. World Oceans Day is not just a celebration—it is a call to action. Every photograph, every dive, every initiative matters in protecting this shared heritage. Ultimately, by protecting the ocean, we are protecting ourselves.  Built for the DepthsUnderwater photography setup with Lumix S1 — captured in Indian Ocean light. I chose Lumix for a reason: trust underwater. But if Panasonic wants to lead, it needs to listen to the field. Read the articleGet ocean updates once a week. 
In the crystal-clear waters of Mayotte’s lagoon, deep in the Indian Ocean, an unexpected encounter took place. Among shimmering schools of fish and coral reefs bathed in light, a dolphin unlike any other appeared. With its distinctive silhouette and unique markings, it bore the genetic legacy of two species: the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) and the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin (Sousa plumbea).
A Rare Occurrence Among Cetaceans
Hybridization in dolphins is a documented but uncommon phenomenon. It usually occurs between species that share the same habitat and exhibit compatible social behaviors. In Mayotte’s lagoon, these two species coexist closely. The Tursiops aduncus, sociable and adaptable, often navigates along the reef edges, while the more coastal humpback dolphin thrives in shallow waters. The discovery of this hybrid raises several questions. How is it perceived by the groups it associates with? Has it inherited the hunting and communication behaviors of both species? And most intriguingly, could it be fertile, potentially passing on its mixed genetic heritage? 
Take the Dive Further ▢Discover an exclusive selection of fine art shark photographs.
Do Hybrid Dolphins Survive?
Documented cases of dolphin hybridization remain rare, and little is known about their survival rates. One of the most famous examples is the wholphin, a hybrid between a common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and a false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens). Some wholphins have been observed to be fertile, suggesting that certain dolphin hybrids can successfully reproduce. However, long-term data on hybrid dolphin survival are scarce. The viability of hybrids may depend on factors such as genetic compatibility, social acceptance within dolphin pods, and ecological adaptability. Are these hybrids merely anomalies, or could they represent an adaptive response to changing environments? Further research is needed to understand how often these occurrences happen and whether they contribute to long-term evolutionary changes. 
A Humpback Dolphin Turned Foster Father
Another fascinating phenomenon has been observed in the lagoon: one of Mayotte’s last remaining humpback dolphins appears to have "adopted" young spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris). This kind of social adoption, though rare, is not unheard of in cetaceans. When an individual loses its peers or finds itself isolated, it may seek integration into another group to maintain essential social bonds. For dolphins, survival and learning are deeply tied to social connections. By fostering these young spinners, the humpback dolphin could be playing a protective and educational role, sharing its navigation and hunting skills. This behavior raises an essential question: is this simply an adaptation to its isolation, or further proof of the remarkable social and emotional flexibility of dolphins? 
Adaptation or Genetic Coincidence?
Hybridization can be accidental or result from population imbalances, such as a lack of available mates within a species. Observing this hybrid, one might wonder: are such unions mere genetic anomalies destined to disappear, or do they reflect an adaptive response to environmental changes? In an ocean increasingly impacted by human activities—pollution, climate change, habitat disruption—could these unexpected encounters be a sign of resilience and evolution? 
An Underwater Encounter
On the day of this observation, the water was perfectly clear. While diving, I watched the hybrid move effortlessly, sometimes following a group of Tursiops aduncus, other times drifting toward quieter waters. Its rostrum seemed slightly longer than that of a typical humpback dolphin, and its coloration blended subtle features of both parent species. It appeared well-integrated, navigating seamlessly between groups, as if balancing between two worlds. 
A Messenger of Evolution?
The emergence of this hybrid and the foster behavior of the humpback dolphin inspire both wonder and scientific curiosity. They remind us that evolution is a living, ever-changing process in which nature continuously explores its own possibilities. In the depths of Mayotte’s lagoon, an extraordinary dolphin carves its path—a testament to an ocean in flux.
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