More than 100 red dolphins and tucuxis were found dead in Lake Tefe in Amazonas. The deaths occurred between September 23 and 29.
According to the Brazilian institute WWF (World Wildlife Fund), the main hypothesis for the loss of life is river drought, which exceeds already recorded standards, as well as high water temperatures, which tend to warm up. more and more.
The community will also suffer. Photo: Miguel Monteiro/Instituto Mamirauá/Reproduction/NDResearchers from the Mamirahua Institute for Sustainable Development are rescuing animals in shallow hot water pools to move them to safety.
The institute is assisted by teams and volunteers experienced in wildlife rescue, but difficult access to the city means action has been slower than expected.
“Transporting live dolphins to other rivers is dangerous, since in addition to the quality of the water, it is necessary to check it for the presence of toxins or viruses. We are mobilizing collection and analysis partners, as well as other institutions with experience in animal rescue,” emphasizes André Coelho, from the Mamirauá Institute.
According to WWF conservation specialist Mariana Pascioalini Frias, research shows that several factors have a direct impact on dolphins.
“They experience various pressures such as hydroelectric dams, mercury pollution, conflicts with people (fishermen and coastal communities), mainly in fishing activities, which is considered one of the most serious modern threats.”
Despite all these disruptions, fishermen and people who depend on the river are also directly affected by falling water levels, which affects shipping and, as a result, logistical problems and insecurity in collecting and consuming fish.
The crisis has affected several dolphins
More than a hundred red dolphins and tukuksi have appeared dead in Lake Tefe (AM) since Saturday (September 23). According to researchers, the death of animals indicates a worsening climate crisis. Understand https://t.co/0LqKIHwWly pic.twitter.com/OPOlj6VUYE
— WWF Brazil (@wwfbrasil) October 2, 2023
Source: Ndmais