River dolphins such as the Amazon river dolphin are among the most endangered dolphin species worldwide.
The construction of dams, water contamination, habitat loss, bycatch, and targeted killing are the greatest threats.
For several years now, the Amazon river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis). In Brazil, up to 1,500 animals are killed each year because their meat is highly sought after. However, this is not because people eat it, but rather because Inia meat is used as bait to catch a catfish (Calophysus macropterus) that is about 45 cm long.
Demand for this catfish meat has risen sharply, particularly in Colombia, leading to more and more dolphins being killed. The prospect of quick profits is attracting more and more fishermen to the river. According to scientist Vera da Silva (INPA, Manaus), the number of communities involved in this fishery has increased significantly. Initial population counts already show that certain local populations of Amazon river dolphins are declining.
YAQU PACHA is currently working with PROYECTO SOTALIA in Venezuela to protect the Amazon river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis).
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The long-term core tasks of this species conservation project are:
- Capturing the true problem in figures
- Public awareness and environmental education
- Regulation and control of fishing
- Creation of alternative sources of income for fishing communities
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