Dolphins of river

Since the beginning of industrial age, mankind has used natural resources for its benefits. Over
time the depredation of these resources has caused the alteration of the environment where animals
live. In our country it has not been different, because air, land and water pollution is something we see
every day. This situation is the main reason for the extinction of unique species in Bolivia and dangerous
reduction of number of others like the pink dolphin. From my point of view, the decline of river dolphins
is caused by the destruction of their ecosystem and overfishing.

To begin with, Human activity has altered the natural channels of the rivers. We have built dams
to ensure the supply of water and electricity to cities, but at the same time prevent dolphins from
migrating to their breeding areas. Also, another factor is the diversion of water for farmland. This
practice has been done for many years, but it is becoming more intense and problematic in times of
drought. For example, in 2017 the departmental government of Santa Cruz rescued 7 dolphins in the
Negro river, there were 5 females, 1 male and one baby; water levels had dropped dangerously due to
drought and water diversion.

In addition to the previous point, water pollution is another threat facing this endangered
species. We can start whit noise pollution from ship engines. As an illustration, scientific studies say that
dolphins are curious animals and are attracted to the noise of motor propellers, which injure and in
other cases kill them. Additionally, water pollution is caused by mining and hydroelectric companies. For
instance, studies show that the levels of mercury, a compound used in mining, have increased in rivers,
killing not only dolphins but other fish as well. Likewise, the irresponsibility of people who throw
garbage directly into rivers, is often due to ignorance or lack of information that these species are found
there.

Finally, fishermen and dolphins compete for the same resources causing overfishing of fish.
People in the area who make a living from fishing often hunt dolphins by accident, as they become
trapped in fishing nets and die. However, there are people who purposely hunt dolphins to use their
meat as bait, they also sell their fat to make dubious miracle medicines through the internet.

All in all, I am concerned about the future of this species, if we continue at this rate in 50 years there will
be no more dolphins in our country, we must be aware and take actions to stop the permanent
destruction of river ecosystems and reduce overfishing.
Reasons

 Dam construction, water diversion and waterways.

 Water contamination due to mining and garbage.
 Noise pollution from ship's engines, which at the same time can injure and kill them.
 They are hunted as bait for other fishes.
 Fishermen and dolphins compete for the same resources causing overfishing of fish
 Illegal deforestation of forests close to habitat causes decreased water
 In addition to the ineffectiveness of the authorities.