South African researchers have joined a global initiative to monitor humpback dolphins.
The humpback dolphin is South Africa’s most endangered marine mammal.
The University of Pretoria’s Mammal Research Institute (MRI) Whale Unit, expressed excitement at joining Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin Conservation Network (HuDoNet), which aims to foster collaboration and share expertise to develop effective conservation strategies within their range.
Dr. Shanan Atkins, Coordinator of HuDoNet, said the initiative unites 77 scientists and conservationists from 17 countries, all dedicated to protecting the vulnerable Indian Ocean humpback dolphin.
“They are affected by human activities that occur on land, in fresh water and in the ocean. The dolphins die in fishing nets, their habitats are altered by port and harbour construction, coastal development, dredging, and land reclamation. They are susceptible to pollution, such as chemicals and loud underwater noise” said Dr Atkins.
In most places, humpback dolphin populations are small and declining because of their proximity to highly populated coastlines.
Dr Els Vermeulen, Senior Lecturer and Research Manager at the MRI Whale Unit, which is also part of UP’s Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, said “HuDoNet is not a research project alone, the ultimate goal is to collaborate and jointly create a conservation action plan for the species across its range; to collaborate, work with governments and share resources, knowledge and experience” she said.
Picture: Guido Parra