Wild Amazon Freshwater Dolphin River Network Conservation

Amazon river dolphins (boto) are freshwater specialists whose survival depends on intact river network connectivity and healthy fisheries.

Key Facts

Amazon river dolphins (Inia geoffrensis, boto) are the largest freshwater dolphins in the world
They are listed as Endangered following severe population declines, primarily from deliberate killing for bait
Boto are killed by fishermen who use their flesh as bait for catfish, a practice that became common after mid-20th century
In 2015, Brazil listed boto as Endangered and strengthened protections, but enforcement is inconsistent
Boto navigate complex flooded forest systems using echolocation and feed on over 50 fish species
River connectivity is essential - hydroelectric dams block boto movement between river sections
Climate change and drought cycles reduce river connectivity and concentrate boto in remaining pools

Welfare Considerations

Boto deliberately killed for fishing bait die slowly from trauma. Individuals trapped in isolated river pools during drought face nutritional stress and temperature extremes. Entanglement in fishing nets causes drowning. As intelligent, long-lived social mammals, boto deaths represent meaningful individual welfare losses beyond population statistics.

What You Can Do

Support Projeto Boto and Amazon river dolphin conservation programs in Brazil
Advocate for strengthened enforcement of Brazilian boto protection laws
Donate to hydroelectric dam impact assessment programs that document boto population effects
Learn about Amazon freshwater dolphin ecology as part of broader Amazon conservation awareness
Follow river connectivity conservation efforts that benefit the entire Amazonian freshwater ecosystem