In 2025, long-term monitoring of Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) continued in Mucuripe Bay near Fortaleza (Brazil). The project is being carried out by the Brazilian organization Aquasis and aims to monitor the population of this coastal species over the long term, document its health status, and better understand the impact of human activities on its habitat.
The research is carried out during regular boat expeditions, during which the animals can be individually identified by means of photo identification based on their dorsal fins. In this way, population size, survival rates, reproduction, and migratory movements can be analyzed over many years. Such long-term data is an indispensable basis for effective conservation measures.
During fieldwork, numerous potential threats were identified, including heavy boat traffic, gillnet fishing, plastic waste, and various recreational activities in the coastal area. These factors can affect the behavior, health, and long-term survival of dolphins and demonstrate the urgent need for continuous monitoring and improved management of the coastal zone.
The protection of Guiana dolphins, Sotalia guianensis is representative of many coastal species whose habitats are under pressure worldwide due to human use. Long-term scientific projects are therefore a central component of modern conservation strategies in line with the One Plan Approach.
This project is made possible by the ongoing support of Zoomarine Portugal, Nuremberg Zoo, Rancho Texas, and Duisburg Zoo, whose long-term commitment is crucial to implementing research and conservation measures for endangered coastal dolphins.
We would like to thank all our partners for their continued trust and support in protecting marine biodiversity.
