Problem
Threatened species of Lipotes vexillifer
Other Names:
Threatened species of BaijiEndangered species of Chinese river dolphin
Nature:
Lipotes vexillifer is probably the most endangered of all cetaceans. The total population is estimated at between 60 and 250 animals and only 2 in captivity.. It is the rarest whale in the world. In the past 15 years, the baiji population is reported to have declined from about 400 animals in 1979-80 to 200 or so in 1986 and to perhaps 150 or fewer in 1993. Despite disagreements over validity of estimates, an observed constriction in the baiji's range and dramatically low rates of sightings during recent Chinese expeditions have lent credence to concern that the baiji population is small and declining. There are three major factors that threaten Baiji survival: dams and floodgates that block fish migration in the river's tributaries and lakes, fisheries accidentally hooking dolphins, and boat propellers. Population numbers also declined through hunting and development of irrigation facilities. The heavy pollution and underwater noise characteristic of the Yangtze also affects the Baiji. These stresses, as well as lack of food, can inhibit reproduction. China began providing legal protection in 1975. The endangerment proceeds from habitat displacement, as the Yangtze River steadily becomes less livable for both prey items and predators. Building a dam on the Yangtze River will impact the animals who depend on it's current state for survival. Incidence:
The baiji is at a very high risk of extinction in the next 25 to 100 years. Subject(s):
Hydrology → Rivers and lakesBirds, Mammals → Marine mammals
Societal Problems → Endangered species
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
Problem Type:
E: Emanations of other problems Date of last update
25.11.2020 – 04:31 CET