The Pelagos Sanctuary for Mediterranean marine mammals: Marine Protected Area (MPA) or marine polluted area? The case study of the striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba)

► Marine protected areas are not necessarily protected from man-made pollution. ► Analysis of a panel of biomarkers and PBT chemicals in cetacean skin biopsies. ► Application of a statistical model for toxicological profile of Mediterranean dolphins. ► Monitoring the achievement of the Good Environmental Status (MSFD) in pelagic areas.