Recently, a traditional annual phenomenon, known as the grindadrap hunt in the North Atlantic islands under Denmark’s territory, has been the subject of heated debate. This event triggered controversy due to the large-scale killing of whales and dolphins, with recent data showing a shocking figure of 1,428 white-sided dolphins slaughtered on the Faroe Islands.
Understanding White-Sided Dolphins
White-sided dolphins, scientifically referred to as Lagenorhynchus acutus, are unique marine creatures that have a number of fascinating physical traits. The name “white-sided” is derived from their distinctive white stripes covering their sides, extending from just under the dorsal fin right down to their tail, which transitions into an amber or yellow shade.
Their scientific designation, on the other hand, has Greek and Latin roots. ‘Lagenos’ derives from the Greek word for ‘bottle’, ‘rhynchus’ signifies ‘snout’ or ‘nose’, and ‘acutus’ alludes to something ‘sharp’ or ‘pointed’, a reference to their sharply-pointed dorsal fins.
Habitat of White-Sided Dolphins
The white-sided dolphins are predominantly found in the cool, temperate, and subarctic waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. Their habitat ranges from southern Greenland to Massachusetts and from Britain to western Norway. There have also been recorded sightings of these dolphins in more extreme locations such as the southern Barents Sea, the Baltic Sea, the Azores, and even the Adriatic Sea.
Conservation Status of White-Sided Dolphins
When it comes to the conservation status of these dolphins, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorizes them under the ‘Least Concern’ category. Meanwhile, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) has listed them under Appendix II, implying that their trade must be controlled to ensure their survival.
Dolphins in Indian Waters
Apart from the Atlantic, other varieties of dolphins can also be found in Indian waters. The Gangetic River Dolphin and Irrawaddy Dolphins are primary examples. These species exhibit distinct characteristics and inhabit different environments, further showcasing the rich diversity among dolphin species.
This comprehensive study aims to shed some light on the white-sided dolphins, their distinctive traits, habitats, and the threats they face. Such information plays a critical role in broadening our understanding of these magnificent creatures and the challenges they face, which in turn can help drive more effective conservation efforts.
Reference Source
All the above information is sourced from IE. A clear understanding of these marine creatures can enable us to appreciate their significance and can aid in their conservation.
