The status and stock structure of s

The status and stock structure of sperm whales has not been considered by the IWC in many years and large areas are considreed to be single stocks. The entire North Atlantic, for example, is considered one stock partially due to the capture of males tagged and killed on opposite sides of the ocean. However, recent photographic and molocular studies have suggested high degrees of female philopatry and genetic differentiation even given the wide male dispersal. As a result, it is the ranging patterns and habitat-use of the female social units that is most relevant for management and conservation.