Amazon River Dolphin (Inia Geoffrensis)

The Amazon river dolphin, locally known as the the boto, is a captivating and distinctive species inhabiting the freshwater rivers of the Amazon basin. With its unique pink hue and elongated, prehistoric-like snout, the boto is a remarkable member of the dolphin family. However, this extraordinary creature faces significant challenges that jeopardize its survival.

Greatest threats to their Population​

Mercury and Pollution

The boto and its cousin, the tucuxi, confront severe challenges from exposure to pollutants, such as mercury, arising from mining and industrial activities. These contaminants can have detrimental effects on their health and the ecosystem they inhabit.

Habitat Encroachment

As commercial and residential development encroaches upon the Amazon's freshwater habitats, the boto's living spaces are shrinking. This habitat degradation threatens their ability to find food, reproduce, and thrive.

Hunting and Bycatch

The boto is hunted in some parts of the Amazon River for its meat, which is often used as fishing bait. Additionally, both boto and tucuxi dolphins are at risk of becoming bycatch in fishing operations, which can lead to unintentional harm and death.

The NMMF IN ACTION

The NMMF is actively involved in efforts to safeguard the boto and tucuxi. Our team has partnered with experts to deploy acoustic recorders in the Amazon’s waters, designed to monitor the sounds and behaviors of these dolphins including echolocation signals and other vocalizations. This data is crucial for understanding their habitats, foraging areas, and breeding grounds, allowing for the development of effective conservation policies. In October 2022, we participated in health assessments in Puerto Narino, Colombia where ultrasound was incorporated for the first time, and our team consulted on improving health assessment techniques with this species as well as with Amazon manatees. This year, we supported veterinary health assessments with Amazon river dolphins in the Amana reserve, alongside local experts and community members. 

Currently, our Operation GRACE team is providing emergency relief in the urgent response to the unprecedented unusual mortality event (UME) in Lago Tefe, Brazil, where more than 150 dolphins have died during extreme heat and drought in the region. With the Amazon river dolphin facing multiple threats, concerted efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of this unique and vulnerable species.