ISLAMABAD: A large school of bottlenose dolphins was sighted in Gwadar West Bay, a development that conservationists say reflects the strong ecological potential of Pakistan’s coastal waters confirmed by WWF Pakistan on Tuesday.
The bottlenose dolphin, one of the most frequently observed marine mammals along Pakistan’s shoreline, is commonly found near the Indus Delta, Chiran Island, Ormara, Astola Island and around the Gwadar coast.
According to Pakistan’s World Wide Fund for Nature 27 species of dolphins and whales have been recorded in the country’s waters.
The sighting underscores the ecological significance of the northern Arabian Sea, which experts describe as a highly productive marine zone. WWF-Pakistan said the recurring presence of dolphin schools is an indicator of a healthy ocean environment.
“This frequent occurrence of dolphin schools indicates the good health of our ocean,” WWF-Pakistan said, noting that the rich diversity of marine mammals is positive sign for the region’s marine ecology.
The organization stressed that while such sightings are encouraging, they also highlight the urgency of safeguarding delicate marine habitats.
WWF-Pakistan said it aims to raise awareness about the fragile marine ecosystem of Pakistan to promote appropriate management practices that protect dolphins and other marine species.
Marine biologists say Pakistan’s coastal belt hosts a wide range of marine life but faces mounting pressure from climate change, pollution and unregulated fishing. WWF Pakistan have long urged stronger protection measures to ensure long-term sustainability of marine species.
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