Yangtze Finless Porpoise in Danger: Scientists Say Protection Insufficient

With its short snout and relatively round body, the Yangtze finless porpoise looks like a miniature version of a grey beluga whale. Yet this porpoise, cute as it is, is in more danger than ever, according to researchers. A dramatic decline has caused this species to be threatened with extinction.

In order to establish how these animals are distributed in the Yangtze River, researchers conducted a survey. They found that, surprisingly, protected sections of the river do not cover all of the areas where most of these porpoises were found. This means that, essentially, the porpoise is in serious danger of being caught in fish lines and encountering other hazards that may threaten its survival.

The findings, published in the journal Animal Conservation, shows that the finless porpoise could potentially be saved if more protections were given to the areas where they lived. Currently, though, the finless porpoise seems to be following the fate of the Yangtze River dolphin, which may already be extinct.

Since the porpoise is endemic to the Yangtze River, which means it can be found in no other location, the species finds itself in a precarious position. Porpoises suffer propeller wounds and habitat destruction, which may be reasons for the species' dramatic decline.

Since the 1990s, a number of reserves for these mammals have been established in the river. Both riverside factory and water construction are restricted in these areas. However, the researchers pointed out that the reserves that were used to try and save the dolphin may not be suitable for saving the porpoise. Currently, the reserve network covers about 311 miles of the Yangtze River habitat. Researchers suggest that the reserves should be extended and cover the "hotspots" where the porpoises are concentrated.

This new study could help save the porpoise by pointing out exactly where efforts should be concentrated. Currently the scientists are presenting their conservation proposals to Chinese authorities such as the Ministry of Agriculture. Whether or not these changes come into effect, though, remains to be seen.