Averting Crisis: Saving Amazon's Rare Freshwater Dolphins

Biologists, vets, and fishermen captured rare freshwater dolphins in the Amazon to study their health and prevent repeat deaths caused by last year's severe drought. Researchers collected blood samples, performed biopsies, and planned to use satellite tags to monitor and understand the factors behind the fatalities, including climate change and toxins.

In a bid to prevent the recurrence of last year's mass dolphin deaths, a multidisciplinary team of biologists, veterinarians, and fishermen have temporarily captured rare freshwater dolphins from the Amazon for health assessments. These dolphins, endangered and unique to South America, faced fatalities due to intolerable water temperatures prompted by an unprecedented drought.

The team carefully conducted blood tests, biopsies, and attached microchips to the dolphins before releasing them back into Lake Tefé. Project leader Miriam Marmontel of the Mamirauá Institute emphasized the importance of this study, providing data to help manage future climate-induced threats.

Efforts to understand the causes behind the mass deaths include potential contaminants and rising water temperatures, with global warming and the El Niño phenomenon both being scrutinized. With water temperatures now at a more stable 30 degrees Celsius, the team aims to act swiftly this dry season, learning from the invaluable data collected.

(With inputs from agencies.)