The Maldives National University (MNU) Library has received a copy of Cetaceans of the Maldives, authored by Adjunct Professor Alessandro De Maddalena, Professor Paolo Galli and Dr. Shazla Mohamed.

Professor Galli and Dr. Mohamed presented the book to the MNU Library on behalf of Adjunct Professor De Maddalena during their visit to the University for the Theveli Conference. They were accompanied by Ms. Giorgia Marazzi, Honorary Consul of Italy to the Maldives.

Published in 2026 by Magenes Editoriale, Cetaceans of the Maldives is a comprehensive reference guide to the whales, dolphins and other cetaceans found in Maldivian waters. The 140-page publication presents current scientific information, photographs and detailed illustrations covering 23 cetacean species recorded in the region. It provides valuable insights into their identification, biology, behaviour, habitats and conservation. Further details about the publication are available here.

Adjunct Professor De Maddalena holds a postgraduate degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Milan. From 2017 to 2022, he served as Adjunct Professor of Vertebrate Zoology (Ichthyology) in the postgraduate Marine Sciences programme at the University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy. An experienced author, lecturer and expedition leader, he has delivered more than 250 lectures in 18 countries and has led over 70 expeditions focused on observing sharks and orcas. Cetaceans of the Maldives is his 21st authored or co-authored book.

This valuable addition to the MNU Library collection will support students, academic staff and researchers in marine science, fisheries, environmental studies and related disciplines. It will help readers develop a deeper understanding of the diversity, characteristics, behaviour and conservation of cetaceans inhabiting Maldivian waters.

MNU Library sincerely thanks Professor Paolo Galli and Dr. Shazla Mohamed for presenting the publication on behalf of Adjunct Professor Alessandro De Maddalena. The Library also extends its appreciation to Ms. Giorgia Marazzi for accompanying the delegation. It was a great pleasure to welcome the visitors to MNU Library and to receive this important contribution to the University’s marine science collection.