Ocular Surface Diseases in Marine Mammals

Marine mammal eyes are adapted for underwater and air environments by increasing the mucins in tear film and having flatter corneas and round crystalline lenses. The cornea and lens are most commonly affected by environmental imbalances. Lack of shade and excessive exposure to sunlight are significant risk factors for keratopathy in pinnipeds, and likely true in cetaceans. Natural aging is also important, as sun damage and exposure to other oxidative stressors can cause cumulative damage to the cornea over time. By diminishing UV exposure and optimizing environmental factors, surface ocular disease in marine mammals can be diminished.