The Irrawaddy dolphin is a very rare and critically endangered animal that lives in South East Asia. It is found in estuaries and mangrove areas and the freshwater populations are found in the river systems. Currently it is estimated that there are only about 85 of these dolphins left on the planet and at that low number they could become extinct very quickly. They have been killed in fishing accidents known as bycatch in the industry and habitat degradation is also a big threat to them.
The absence of adequate trade controls on this species also creates incentives for live-captures for international trade that undermine and discourage conservation efforts by local people and governments. There is currently a big demand in Asia/Europe for mammals such as dolphins and orcas to perform in dolphinariums. Even the removal of just a couple of these unique dolphins would be detrimental to it's survival.
Finally there is the problem of inbreeding and the lack of genetic diversity as the population numbers become smaller. This will cause all kinds of physical problems and keep the species from being a strong and healthy enough population to continue to reproduce itself.
The Irrawaddy dolphin is very different looking from most other species of dolphins having a more whale like appearance. It is identified by a bulging forehead, a short beak, and 12-19 teeth on each side of each jaw. The pectoral fin is broadly triangular and there is a small dorsal fin on the posterior end of the back. It would be such a shame to lose this unique dolphin species forever to extinction.
The absence of adequate trade controls on this species also creates incentives for live-captures for international trade that undermine and discourage conservation efforts by local people and governments. There is currently a big demand in Asia/Europe for mammals such as dolphins and orcas to perform in dolphinariums. Even the removal of just a couple of these unique dolphins would be detrimental to it's survival.
Finally there is the problem of inbreeding and the lack of genetic diversity as the population numbers become smaller. This will cause all kinds of physical problems and keep the species from being a strong and healthy enough population to continue to reproduce itself.
The Irrawaddy dolphin is very different looking from most other species of dolphins having a more whale like appearance. It is identified by a bulging forehead, a short beak, and 12-19 teeth on each side of each jaw. The pectoral fin is broadly triangular and there is a small dorsal fin on the posterior end of the back. It would be such a shame to lose this unique dolphin species forever to extinction.
Thank you for sharing this vital information about such a rare creature. It looks more like a tiny whale... how wonderful :) and how sad :(
Stop lettin g our unique animals die... Governments talk of working together ... then combine your resources and start doing that to save some of these most precious things that will be lost ofr ever... obviously this lil guy needs help... so we need to know more so we can do just that... we can petition all we want.. but wedont have the backing or funding to do what is needed... The Government does/... so please show the world you care ...
It is only a matter of time before 'Man' has nothing left to 'kill', then it will be too late. I'm ashamed of being a 'Human' and 'Mother Nature' is surley going to make us all pay for our selfishness!
So very sad, it's time to take a stand, it's time to show the world what is happening to these most remarkable and intelligent creatures and to take steps to protect them, the dolphins... so majestic ...