ABSTRACT
The immune system is primarily a series of defense mechanisms that function to protect the body against the potential harmful effects of foreign microorganisms. In recent years, there have been rapid advances in the field of immunology. With these advances have come new methods for preventing and treating infectious disease. Although marine mammal immunology is a relatively recent field of scientific endeavor, it is already possible to perform reliable and pertinent studies to address specific aspects of health and disease in these species. Immune system monitoring and serological diagnostic assays have clear roles in the management of disease in individual marine mammals. In addition to clinical assessment, there are a number of other reasons to consider immunological parameters in marine mammals. The concept that the status and well-being of the aquatic environment are reflected in the immune systems of marine mammals has gained considerable acceptance within the last decade. Furthermore, there has also been a strong interest in genetic markers of immunological diversity, since many believe that the successful management of endangered populations may require assessment of genetic diversity.
