Barrages, Biodiversity and the Indus River Dolphin

Abstract

The Indus River Dolphin, Platanista minor belongs to the Platanistoidea, or River Dolphins which are probably the world`s most endangered cetaceans. Ecological interest began in the 1970`s with a largely uncoordinated monitoring programme which continue to date. In spite of problems in assessing the species population and abundance in the turbid waters of the Indus it would seem to be stable in its main stronghold between the Sukkur and Guddu Barrages it seems to be stable if not increasing in population. The problems faced by this animal caused by the adverse effects of barrages are in common with other members of the biota. By solving problems for dolphin the rest of the ecosystem should benefit. It is suggested that the issues of biodiversity can gain a higher profile when linked to a flagship species.