Dolphins persist in one of the world’s most polluted rivers
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Researchers in Bangladesh discovered around 20 Ganges river dolphins surviving in the Buriganga River, despite it being among the five most polluted rivers globally.
The Buriganga, near Dhaka city, receives toxic waste from industries, sewage, and solid waste, leaving it largely devoid of fish. A year-long study revealed the dolphins were present for 10 months, with calves making up nearly 16% of sightings, suggesting they continue to reproduce in the harsh conditions.
Scientists believe the dolphins are adapting by hunting suckermouth catfish, a pollution-tolerant species that has thrived where native fish have disappeared. Water analysis shows the river contains dangerous levels of heavy metals like chromium, lead, and cadmium, which threaten both wildlife and the millions of people who rely on the river. These pollutants also cause biodiversity loss and can accumulate in the food chain, posing health risks.
A separate survey across 45 Bangladesh rivers found over 2,300 Ganges river dolphins, with 27 observed in heavily polluted waterways including the Buriganga. Conservationists urge Bangladesh to control pollution and harmful fishing practices to protect these endangered animals, as illegal gill nets pose a significant threat and have already caused local extinctions in other rivers.
