Latest news with #Irrawaddy
The Star
3 days ago
- Science
- The Star
Chinese and South-East Asian experts led by Cambodia share dolphin conservation strategies
WUHAN/PHNOM PENH (Xinhua): Over 50 experts from China and Southeast Asian countries have gathered in Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei Province, to discuss strategies for protecting endangered freshwater dolphins. The week-long workshop has brought together representatives from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and China to share insights on habitat protection, ex-situ conservation strategies, and artificial breeding programs, with a focus on applying China's successful Yangtze finless porpoise conservation model in safeguarding critically endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. The Yangtze finless porpoise, a freshwater cetacean endemic to China's Yangtze River, once faced severe population decline. However, through conservation efforts, China has successfully reversed the trend. According to a survey conducted in 2022, China's finless porpoise population had rebounded to 1,249 individuals -- marking the first population increase in decades. In contrast, the Irrawaddy dolphin, another endangered freshwater species, demands urgent action. Its global freshwater populations are fragmented into three isolated sub-populations in Cambodia's Mekong River, Myanmar's Irrawaddy River and the Mahakam River in Indonesia, each consisting of fewer than 100 individuals. During the workshop, experts are exploring how China's model, particularly techniques for establishing relocated populations, management, and rewilding training for low-reproduction species, could be adapted for use in Irrawaddy dolphin conservation. Discussions also include passive acoustic monitoring, habitat restoration, and other measures crucial for small cetacean protection. The event in Wuhan is being co-hosted by the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The experts gathered there will also visit Yangtze finless porpoise reserves in Hubei and Hunan, both in central China, and Jiangsu Province in east China, with sites including natural reserves, ex-situ reserves and research bases, to observe China's conservation measures firsthand. This exchange highlights growing regional collaboration in freshwater cetacean protection, offering hope for reversing the decline of Asia's critically endangered dolphin species, said Hao Yujiang, an associate professor at the IHB. "I'm looking forward to learning from the experience -- and hopefully I can adapt this experience and method in Cambodia," said Im Rachna, under secretary of state of Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. - Xinhua
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Scientists uncover disturbing factor linked to increase in dead dolphins off UK coast — here's what you need to know
Scientists have found that rising ocean temperatures and industrial chemicals are causing the deaths of short-beaked common dolphins in the United Kingdom. According to a report relayed by researchers from the Zoological Society of London discovered a link between warming temperatures and the spread of infectious disease in the dolphins. Results showed that these pressures have been building for decades, and it's finally catching up with the marine animals. Waters near coasts with many industries have higher levels of toxic chemicals, including polychlorinated biphenyls. These chemicals build up in the fatty tissues of dolphins and impair their immune systems and reproduction. While PCBs have been banned in Europe for around 40 years, the leftover chemicals continue to spill into marine environments from runoff and other sources. Higher sea surface temperatures have disrupted biodiversity and changed species distributions, altering how infectious microorganisms move through the environment. Warmer waters have been linked with higher disease rates in several marine species. Rising ocean temperatures have also led to changes in habitat use and prey availability for the short-beaked dolphins. Short-beaked dolphins are crucial for healthy marine ecosystems, as they maintain the balance of marine food webs and form "super pods" with other dolphins that can influence prey availability and distribution. Deaths among these gentle creatures are concerning, as they may upset the balance of ecosystems and marine habitats. Dolphins have been known to help people in numerous ways, including rescuing people from sharks, guiding boats, and helping with fishing. It's important that we protect them both for their survival and human benefits. Global heating isn't only impacting dolphins — it's harming other animals across the world, including lambs in Spain, monkeys in Mexico, and elephants in Africa. Scientists said they will continue to monitor marine environments for industrial pollutants. However, they noted that without taking steps to reduce environmental contaminants and reduce warming, risks to dolphins will likely increase in the future. The authors noted there's an urgent need to deploy conservation efforts that mitigate warming ocean temperatures and industrial chemicals in waterways. On a positive note, endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, which are native to Southeast Asia, are seeing a population boost thanks to conservation efforts. If we make similar strides with the short-beaked dolphins, it will ensure their population remains stable. By getting involved in your local community with wildlife groups, you can make a positive impact that can last for generations. Also, if you see anyone dumping chemicals into waterways, notify the proper authorities — this will keep dolphins and humans safe. Do you worry about air pollution in and around your home? Yes — always Yes — often Yes — sometimes No — never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Miami Herald
28-05-2025
- Science
- Miami Herald
‘Extremely rare' sea creature seen hunting off Australia by drone pilot. See it
A drone pilot in Australia recently captured footage of a highly elusive sea creature on the hunt. The incident took place off the coast of Magnetic Island, located a few miles offshore from mainland Queensland. While flying an aerial drone low over the ocean, Oliver Scheele spotted an Australian snubfin dolphin pursuing a fish. A video posted by Scheele shows the pale-bodied marine mammal breaching the surface and making hair-pin turns while tracking the fish. 'These dolphins are extremely rare, living in inshore areas,' Scheele wrote in a May 19 Instagram post. 'They are a vulnerable species due to human impacts.' 'Seeing these dolphins was a privilege as they are so rare,' he told Yahoo News. Scheele's brother, a marine biologist, told the outlet this is the first sighting the pair have made of the species, following six years of searching. An 'extremely rare' species Australian snubfin dolphins were only discovered as a distinct species in 2005, according to Whale and Dolphin Conservation, a non-profit. Prior to that, they were thought to be a secluded population of Irrawaddy dolphins, another rare species native to Southeast Asia. 'There are clear differences between the two populations that had not been previously recognized and these were confirmed by the studies on DNA,' a researcher who helped uncover the species told NBC News in 2005. The relatively newfound creatures are distinguished by their round, melon-shaped heads, light coloring and small dorsal fins — from which their 'snubfin' name is derived. The animals — which can grow up to nearly 9 feet in length and weigh up to 280 pounds — are found along stretches of Australia and Papua New Guinea. Because they prefer shallow, coastal waters, they are at risk from human activity and are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The marine species is classified as protected in the waters off Australia and 'their future remains uncertain,' according to Dolphin Research Australia, a non-profit conservation organization. The animals are generally sheepish around boats, and they have been seen displaying a peculiar spitting behavior, which 'remains a mystery.' Much else about the dolphins, including the specifics of their reproductive habits, remains unknown.
The Star
27-05-2025
- General
- The Star
Cambodia spots newborn rare Mekong dolphin, bringing total population to 111
PHNOM PENH: Cambodia has welcomed seven newborn Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins so far this year, bringing the total population of the aquatic mammals to 111, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) said in a press release on Monday (May 26). The latest newborn dolphin calf, about two days old, was spotted on Sunday at the Kampi dolphin pool in Kratie province's Preaek Prasab district by a team of researchers from the Fisheries Administration and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). "This newborn dolphin was seen swimming alongside a pod of four adult dolphins," the press release said. "It is the seventh dolphin calf born in 2025." The Mekong River Irrawaddy dolphins have been listed since 2004 as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species. In 2024, the South-East Asian country recorded a total of nine newborn dolphin calves, with four deaths, according to the news release. The MAFF estimates that to date, there are 111 Irrawaddy dolphins living along a 120-km main channel of the Mekong River in northeast Stung Treng and Kratie provinces. - Xinhua
News18
26-05-2025
- News18
Must Try Boat Ride Spots In India For Your Next Adventure
Last Updated: A boat ride is a fun and relaxing way to explore the nature. Check out these spots in India for a tranquil boat ride. If you're someone looking for a fun and relaxing way to explore nature in India, boat rides could be a great choice. The country has many beautiful spots for boat trips, from the peaceful backwaters of Kerala to the calm lakes in Udaipur. This unique activity will let you enjoy nature's beauty from a unique perspective. Many tourists love boat rides because they are relaxing and a good way to enjoy lovely views. Some even provide the opportunity to experience local food and learn about cultures while you float on the water. If you want to try something new and make happy memories, plan a boat ride in India and enjoy the beauty around you. Kerala A trip to Kerala feels incomplete without experiencing the calm and peaceful backwaters. Alleppey is one of the most popular destinations where thousands of tourists come every year to enjoy a stay on a traditional houseboat. It offers a perfect break from the busy and stressful city life. All around, you will see bright green coconut trees and wide paddy fields. The slow moving boats and fresh air help refresh your mind. Sundarbans Spend a peaceful afternoon exploring the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in West Bengal. This vast natural area is surrounded by colourful flowers and quiet spaces perfect for those who love nature. The region is famous for its massive mangrove forests that provide shelter to many wild animals, including the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, as well as crocodiles and various kinds of birds. Varanasi Ganga is believed to have the power to wash away your sins. Taking a boat ride on the holy waters, especially during sunrise or sunset, lets you feel the spirit of one of the oldest cities in the world. The peaceful ride takes you across different Ghats, each with its own story and a unique view of the city. One of the best things to see is the evening Aarti ceremony from the boat, a moment that stays with you forever. Chilika Lake is the biggest saltwater lake in Asia and a favourite spot for people who love boating. The massive lake has many small islands, and during winter, migratory birds come here to rest. You might also see rare Irrawaddy dolphins swimming in the water. One of the special places on the lake is the Kalijai Temple. You can also relax while watching the beautiful sunset. Udaipur Known as the City of Lakes, visitors have multiple options like Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake and Udai Sagar Lake. Boating on these waters gives you a great view of grand places like the City Palace, Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, Jag Mandir and Taj Lake Palace, along with the hills around the city. A boat ride during sunset on Lake Pichola is a favourite among visitors, as the golden light makes everything look magical. It's a peaceful way to enjoy Udaipur's charm. First Published:
