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The Irrawaddy Dolphin


The Irrawaddy dolphin (scientific name orcaella brevirostris) is a subspecies of dolphin that inhabits the coastal waters of South and Southeast Asia, as well as the Mekong, Mahakam, and Ayeyarwady Rivers. It can grow between 5.9 and 9 feet long, and it can weigh between 198 and 440 pounds. It is distinguishable from other subspecies of dolphin by its short beak, bulging forehead, and between 12 and 19 teeth on each side of both of its jaws.

The Irrawaddy dolphin is classified as a Vulnerable species. It is this close to becoming extinct because it gets caught in fishing gear. Because of this, the World Wildlife Fund's (WWF's) effort to save it consists of supporting sources of income for the communities around its habitat other than fishing in order to reduce the chances of it getting caught in fishing gear. This is being done because it plays a crucial role in the continued health of the Mekong River, and it is an important source of jobs and income for the communities around its habitat that are involved in dolphin-watching.

Source for picture and all information: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/irrawaddy-dolphin

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