Gangetic Dolphin is a type of:-a)Endemic speciesb)Rare speciesc)Vulner...
A vulnerable species is one which has been categorized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as likely to become endangered unless the circumstances that are threatening its survival and reproduction improve. Vulnerability is mainly caused by habitat loss or destruction of the species home.
Gangetic Dolphin is a type of:-a)Endemic speciesb)Rare speciesc)Vulner...
Introduction
The Gangetic Dolphin, also known as the South Asian River Dolphin or Platanista gangetica, is a species of freshwater dolphin found in the rivers of South Asia. It is recognized as a vulnerable species due to various threats to its population and habitat.
Vulnerable Species
The correct answer to the given question is option 'C', which states that the Gangetic Dolphin is a vulnerable species. This classification is based on the assessment of its conservation status according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Reasons for Vulnerability
The Gangetic Dolphin is considered a vulnerable species due to several factors:
1. Habitat Loss: The construction of dams, barrages, and irrigation canals disrupts the natural flow of rivers, leading to changes in water levels and temperature. This affects the availability of suitable habitats for the dolphins.
2. Water Pollution: Industrial and agricultural pollution, including the discharge of toxic chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers, contaminates the water and affects the quality of the dolphins' habitat. This pollution can have adverse effects on their health and reproduction.
3. Overfishing: Unsustainable fishing practices, such as the use of fishing nets and electrofishing, result in a decline in fish populations, which are the primary food source for the Gangetic Dolphins. This scarcity of food negatively impacts their survival and reproductive rates.
4. Accidental Capture: Dolphins often get entangled in fishing nets and drown as bycatch. This accidental capture further reduces their population and poses a significant threat to their survival.
5. River Traffic and Noise Pollution: Increased river traffic, including boat and ship traffic, generates noise pollution that can disrupt the dolphins' communication and echolocation abilities. This interference affects their ability to navigate and find food, making them more vulnerable to predation and other threats.
6. Climate Change: Changes in river flow patterns, water temperature, and salinity due to climate change can have detrimental effects on the Gangetic Dolphins' habitat and prey availability. They may also be more susceptible to disease outbreaks and increased competition with invasive species.
Conclusion
The Gangetic Dolphin is classified as a vulnerable species due to the various threats it faces, including habitat loss, water pollution, overfishing, accidental capture, river traffic, noise pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas, sustainable fishing practices, and pollution control measures, are essential to ensure the survival of this species.