The Endangered Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica)

ABSTRACT

The iconic Ganges River dolphin Platanista gangetica gangetica is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and has been classified as the most endangered cetacean due to sharp decline in the population size of this obligatory freshwater animal. The species is vulnerable to multiple anthropogenic activities such as habitat fragmentation caused by construction of structural barriers (dams and barrages) and dredging activities, reduced freshwater flow, huge siltation load, depletion of fish stock, use of vulnerable gears, and lack of public awareness. Geographical expansion of artisanal fishing, poaching for collection of their flesh (used as fish bait) and fat and oil (used as an ointment for joint pain and gout), injuries and mortalities due to entanglement with fishing gear are other threats for the species. In addition, they can bioaccumulate several hazardous and toxic chemical pollutants in their body tissues, which are detrimental for their sustenance. Due to the outbreak of novel coronavirus (2019—COVID) pandemic the positive and negative impacts have also been observed and discussed. The following precautionary measures should be undertaken for their conservation ban fishing in the dolphin hotspot areas and sanctuaries;multispecies management along with law enforcement and sustainable fishing practices;dolphin-fishery interactions should be solved through fishing gear modifications (e.g., mesh size). © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved