Study Reveals Secrets of Recently Discovered Snubfin Dolphin

Apr 13, 2009

ADELAIDE—The rare and only recently discovered snubfin dolphin catches its prey by spitting at it, new research shows.

The research gives an overview of the life and habits of the native marine mammal, which lives along Australia's northern coastlines and was only recognised as a new species in 2005.

WWF Australia's marine and coasts manager Lydia Gibson said the small dolphins hunt in groups, chasing fish to the surface of the water and rounding them up by shooting jets of water from their mouths.

"This incredibly unusual behaviour, first seen in Australia off the Kimberley Coast, has only been noted before in Irrawaddy dolphins, which are closely related to this species," she said in a statement.

"It also confirms the snubfin dolphin is a fascinating animal, one which we know so little about."

Ms Gibson said the WWF research, funded by ING Direct, had collated existing information from previous sightings while also gathering new valuable data about snubfin habitats across northern Australia.

So far, the research showed that habitat destruction was the key threat to the snubfins - the rarest coastal dolphin in Queensland.

They are vulnerable to chemical pollution, viruses and bacteria because they live close to shore, and are more likely than other dolphins to get caught in gill nets.

"There are already development proposals around the Great Barrier Reef that could affect their habitat - like the extension of the Townsville Port - that could have major impacts on these species," Ms Gibson said.

"We must work with all relevant stakeholders to initiate a strategic environment assessment of future developments close to snubfin habitats."

The snubfins are classified as `near threatened' but can be found at a number of locations off the Queensland and Northern Territory coasts, as well as the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

According to Marine Parks WA, the snubfin was only recognised as being a new species in 2005.

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