Amazon: According to CNN, more than 100 dolphins have been discovered dead in the Brazilian Amazon over the previous seven days as a result of the historic drought and rising water temperatures, which reached 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
Unprecedented Dolphin Deaths in Lake Tefe
These dolphins were discovered in Lake Tefe, according to the Mamiraua Institute, a research centre supported by the Brazilian Ministry of Science. The institute noted that such a high number of deaths was rare and speculated that the record-high lake temperature and the unprecedented dryness in the Amazon may have been the reason of the death. The greatest river in the world, the Amazon, is currently in its dry season, and various members of the river’s wildlife are coping with historical high temperatures.
Dolphin Deaths Raise Concerns Over Climate Impact and Human Activity in the Amazon
According to CNN, the deaths will likely increase climate experts’ fears about the impact that extreme droughts and human activity are having on the area. The institute said, “It’s still early to determine the cause of this extreme event but according to our experts, it is certainly connected to the drought period and high temperatures in Lake Tefé, in which some points are exceeding 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit).”
Efforts to Save Remaining Dolphins
According to CNN Brasil, however, scientists and researchers are attempting to save the remaining dolphins by moving them from lagoons and ponds on the outskirts to the main body of the river where the water is relatively cooler. Additionally, CNN reported that the operation is difficult because of the location’s isolation. Andre Coelho, a researcher at the Mamiraua Institute, told CNN Brasil, “Transferring river dolphins to other rivers is not that safe because it’s important to verify if toxins or viruses are present (before releasing the animals into the wild).”
Drought Affects Communities, Transportation, and the Economy in Amazonas State
Additionally, according to CNN, 59 communities in Amazonas State reported water levels below average, which hampered river transportation and fishing operations. Authorities anticipate even more severe droughts over the upcoming few weeks, which could result in additional dolphin deaths. The devastating drought in the Amazon River is also having an adverse effect on the economy.
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