The Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) is one of the most common cetaceans in Brazil but also one of the most vulnerable, with numbers dwindling by up to 93% in the last 40 years.

The main threats dolphins face are industrial contamination, sewage and noise pollution, causing chronic stress that leads to weakened immune systems and reproduction difficulties.

Environmentalists are banking on research and education to help protect the species and consequently the marine environment. In Rio de Janeiro state, a protected environment in Sepetiba Bay has helped stem dolphin mortality, and efforts are being made to clean up Guanabara bay, but more is required to restore and save the population.

#mongabay #dolphins #education

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