MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Southern Chile Commerson dolphins’ population falls dramatically

Also known as the Panda Dolphins they are one of the smallest of its specie

A recent study showed a reduction in the population of Commerson’s Dolphins living in the southern tip of Chile. Commerson’s are also known as Panda Dolphins (or Tonina Overa in Spanish).

DNA analysis of this small, slim dolphin showed a decline in genetic diversity, which means its population is declining, threatening its survival.

“We have seen that when there have been substantial reductions in population size, it creates a decline in genetic diversity,” said Carlos Olavarria, a marine biologist with The Centre for the Study of the Quaternary (CEQUA). Lower genetic diversity also reduces the dolphins’ ability to adapt to changing environments.

According to 1984 estimates in the Strait of Magellan, the Commerson`s Dolphin population reached 3,211. Only 10 years later, the population dropped to 718, and today it is expected to be even smaller.

In the 1980s, the dolphin was hunted and used as bait in the crab industry, shrinking its population greatly. In addition, due to its beauty, many dolphins were captured and used in aquarium shows. Now, many bottlenoses are caught in fishing nets intended for small fish.

The Commerson`s dolphin is one of the smaller dolphin species in the world and lives in only two geographic areas: the Kerguelen Islands in the Indian Ocean, and the southern tip of South America. The study also suggested that the species used to inhabit more areas.

By Laura French – Santiago Times