Pink Amazon Dolphins at Risk as Biologists Investigate Impact of Climate Change

In response to last year’s devastating drought in the Amazon, which led to the death of over 200 river dolphins, a team comprising biologists, veterinarians, and local fishermen has embarked on a crucial mission. Coordinated by the Mamirauá Institute for Sustainable Development, this project aims to assess and safeguard the health of the endangered Amazon river dolphins, known for their distinct pink hue.

This study took place in Lake Tefé, a body of water fed by a tributary of the Amazon River. The team conducted a series of delicate operations to capture up to 20 dolphins. Each was carefully brought ashore for a comprehensive check-up that included blood tests and biopsies before being released back into the wild.

The necessity of this research stems from the harsh environmental conditions faced by these dolphins during drought periods. Last year’s drought—the most prolonged in recorded history—caused river levels to drop drastically, elevating water temperatures significantly. Such conditions are not only inhospitable but lethal, as evidenced by the mass mortality of dolphins and thousands of fish, which suffered due to depleted oxygen levels in the water.

The initiative also included the installation of microchips in the dolphins, facilitating future monitoring and identification. While satellite tags, which track the dolphins’ behavior and environmental conditions, were not yet attached, they are part of the broader effort to understand and mitigate the impacts of Climate change on this vulnerable species.

By gathering data on the health of the dolphins at critical times—when water levels fall and temperatures rise—the researchers aim to pinpoint the precise causes of the deaths. Whether these are due to elevated temperatures, toxins, or pollutants, identifying the triggers is crucial for developing timely and effective Conservation strategies.

This study not only highlights the direct effects of climate change on wildlife but also underscores the importance of proactive environmental stewardship. With the collaboration of international bodies like the National Marine Mammal Foundation of California, the project exemplifies a global commitment to preserving one of the Amazon’s most iconic species amidst escalating climate challenges.

This article by Nicholas Vincent  was first published by One Green Planet on 28 August 2024. Image Credit :COULANGES/Shutterstock.

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