Over a Hundred Dolphins Found Deceased in Brazilian Amazon Amidst Historic Drought and Record-High Temperatures
Amidst an unprecedented drought and soaring water temperatures, more than a hundred dolphins have tragically perished in the Brazilian Amazon. All of these deceased dolphins were discovered in Lake Tefé within the past week, as reported by the Mamirauá Institute, a research organization funded by the Brazilian Ministry of Science.
The institute noted that such a significant number of dolphin deaths is highly unusual and strongly suggests that the extraordinary heat in the region, coupled with the historic drought, may be responsible for this distressing phenomenon. This development underscores the growing concerns of climate scientists regarding the profound impact of human activities and extreme droughts on the Amazon ecosystem.
“While it’s still early to definitively pinpoint the cause of this extreme event, our experts indicate a clear connection to the ongoing drought and the exceptionally high temperatures in Lake Tefé, where certain areas have registered temperatures surpassing 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit),” remarked the institute, as quoted by CNN affiliate CNN Brasil.
The Amazon River, the world’s largest river system, is currently in the midst of its dry season, with various species of river fauna also suffering due to the record-breaking heat. Conservationists and activists are making efforts to rescue surviving dolphins by relocating them from lagoons and ponds in remote areas to the main river body, where the water is comparatively cooler. However, this operation is fraught with challenges due to the area’s remoteness.
André Coelho, a researcher at the Mamirauá Institute, cautioned, “Transferring river dolphins to other waterways carries risks, as it is essential to ascertain the presence of toxins or viruses before releasing these animals back into the wild.”
The Amazon’s drought is exacting a toll on the region’s economy as well. Reports indicate below-average water levels in 59 municipalities in Amazonas State, which are impeding transportation and fishing activities along the river.
Authorities anticipate even more severe drought conditions in the coming weeks, raising concerns of additional dolphin casualties, as reported by CNN Brasil.