A note on the status of the dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) off Peru
Van Waerebeek, K. (1994). A note on the status of the dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) off Peru. Rep. Int. Whal. Commn. Special Issue 15: 525-527
In: Report of the International Whaling Commission. International Whaling Commission: Cambridge. ISSN 0143-8700
This paper briefly examines the cetacean catch composition by species in Peruvian fisheries between 1984 and 1993. Despite a number of difficulties in interpreting the data, there is a significant decline in the proportion of dusky dolphins recorded between 1985-90 (77.5%) and 1991-93 (52.8%). During the same period the proportion of long-beaked common dolphins increased from 6.7% to 31.8%. Possible reasons for this are discussed. One possibility is that this reflects a true decrease in the abundance of dusky dolphins in response to exploitation. It is argued that the precautionary principle requires that effective conservation measures are implemented as a matter of urgency. In addition, studies should be carried out to determine the true reason for the change in proportions.
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