Data from: Evaluation of body mass index (BMI) as a prognostic indicator from two rough-toothed dolphin (Steno bredanensis) mass strandings in Florida

Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) are a common mass stranding
species in Florida. These large stranding events typically include a small
number of sick or injured individuals and a much larger number of healthy
individuals, making rapid triage essential. Little data exist on
rehabilitation outcomes, and historically, successful outcomes are
limited. Furthermore, very little data exist on the feeding habits and
dietary needs of this species. This study compared morphology and body
mass index (BMI) in two rough-toothed dolphin mass stranding events in
Florida: August 2004 (n = 36) and March 2005 (n = 32). The two groups were
significantly different in morphologic measurements, with age and gender
adjusted intake BMI significantly (p < 0.01) different (2004 = 0.34
+ 0.02; 2005 = 0.41 + 0.02) between groups. Ten animals from the 2005 had
weights tracked throughout the rehabilitation process and demonstrated an
initial drop in BMI followed by an increase and a plateau prior to
release. When comparing initial BMI by stranding outcome, individuals that
were rehabilitated and released had a significantly (p = 0.03) higher BMI
than individuals who were euthanized. However, there was no difference
between dolphins that died of natural causes (p = 0.56) and animals
successfully rehabilitated. Analysis of BMI can be a useful marker in
triage during a stranding, when resources are limited to identify
individuals most likely to survive, as well as in determining the
appropriate body condition for release. The data reported here can provide
guidance on evaluating the nutritive status on this uncommon species that
would otherwise be difficult to obtain among wild populations.