Ganga River Dolphin

The Ganges River Dolphin: A Majestic Freshwater Species

Overview

The Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica) is a unique freshwater dolphin species native to the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems in South Asia.

Once widespread in these rivers, the Ganges river dolphin now faces significant conservation challenges due to habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing.

Distribution and Habitat

Distribution

The Ganges river dolphin was once found in the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Meghna, and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Today, its distribution is fragmented and limited to isolated sub-populations in the following Indian states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura.

Habitat

Ganges river dolphins prefer deep, slow-flowing waters and inhabit various habitats within rivers, including pools, channels, and confluences.

They often associate with oxbow lakes, side channels, and other backwater areas during the dry season.

Conservation Status and Threats

The Ganges river dolphin is classified as "Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The species faces numerous threats, including:

• Habitat loss due to dam construction, riverine development, and sand mining
• Pollution from wastewater discharge and industrial effluents
• Overfishing and bycatch in fishing gear
• Climate change and associated impacts on river flow and water quality

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts for the Ganges river dolphin have been initiated by various organizations and governments, including:

• Habitat protection and restoration
• Sustainable fishing practices and reduced bycatch
• Pollution control and water quality management
• Education and outreach programs to raise awareness about the species and its conservation needs

The Ganges river dolphin is a cultural heritage and an integral part of the South Asian ecosystem. Its conservation is crucial for maintaining the health and biodiversity of riverine habitats in the region.