Marine mammal research experts state that 86 species are expected to disappear from the sea in the coming years; Warning: Dolphins get entangled in fishing nets, collide with vessels and are hunted for entertainment
Dolphins. The population of Chinese bottlenose dolphins has shrunk to about 20 individuals (archive photo: Reuters)
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A new study states that several species of dolphins and whales are in danger of extinction and are expected to disappear from the sea within a decade. The warnings come from international experts for the study of marine mammals from the "World Conservation Organization".
According to the experts, species such as the big dolphin (which lives in the Yangtze River in China) will no longer exist within ten years. Other small marine mammals – as well as several species of large whales – are close to extinction as well.
In the BBC it was announced that the researchers point to 86 known species of marine mammals that are in immediate danger of extinction. The list includes whales that live in the oceans and rarer species that live in fresh water in South Asia and Latin America.
Dr. Rangel Rivers, one of the heads of the organization, said that "some of the large whales, such as the blue whale, often receive extensive public attention." However, according to him, "we focus on smaller species, which are not in the headlines - even though the danger of extinction is more real for them".
From surveys conducted in the mid-80s, it appears that the general population of the Beji dolphins numbered 300 individuals. In the late 90s, however, only about 22 dolphins of this type were counted. Other endangered marine mammals are the Gulf and California dolphins, the blue whale and the Ganges river dolphins.
"Fishing depletes food sources"
Advertisement Although humans are not directly responsible for the extinction of the marine mammals, researchers point the blame at fishermen - whose boats collide with dolphins, and whose nets entangle them and cause their death.
In other cases, dolphins are hunted for entertainment purposes - and taken to aquariums. "Fishing depletes food sources, animals are harmed by coastal development, and marine sonars cause deadly damage
For mammals that swim in the water," the researchers add.
The scientists recommend taking several measures to protect endangered species. Among other things, the researchers recommend adjusting the fishing methods so that they benefit the dolphins and reduce harm to them.
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