A male Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin has died in Kandal province after being caught in fishing nets and lines, according to the Fisheries Administration (FiA). The carcass of the animal, identified as individual No. 18, was located on Friday, July 24, near the Svay Chrum ferry crossing in Arey Ksat town.
Officials from the Kandal Fisheries Administration Cantonment reported that the dolphin measured 203 centimetres in length and weighed 64 kilogrammes. Experts estimated the dolphin's age to be between 12 and 15 years. Following an autopsy, conservation teams secured tissue samples to conduct additional scientific analysis.
This incident represents a significant blow to ongoing conservation efforts, as the population had seen no recorded deaths over the past year. Prior to this event, the Mekong dolphin population in Cambodia was estimated at 118 individuals, a figure that included six calves born earlier this year. The total population count is now expected to be adjusted following this loss.
Source: Phnom Penh Post
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