Description

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Gangetic dolphin, India’s only riverine dolphin species, has been estimated to number 6,327 individuals across the Ganges River and its tributaries, marking the first-ever count of this endangered species.

About Gangetic Dolphin

• Habitat and Distribution - The Gangetic dolphin is a freshwater species found in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems, which span across India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

• Common Names - This species is known by several names, including the Blind Dolphin, Ganges Dolphin, Ganges Susu, Hihu, Side-Swimming Dolphin, and South Asian River Dolphin.

• Scientific Name - Platanista gangetica

• National Symbol - The government of India has designated the Gangetic dolphin as the National Aquatic Animal.

Physical Description

• Gangetic dolphins are characterized by a long, thin snout, a rounded belly, a stocky body, and large flippers.

• They can weigh up to 150 kg.

• At birth, their calves are chocolate brown and gradually turn grayish-brown as they grow. Their skin remains smooth and hairless throughout life.

• Female dolphins are generally larger than males, with females reaching up to 2.67 meters in length and males up to 2.12 meters.

Behavior And Adaptations

• These dolphins primarily feed on fish and thrive in the counter-current systems of the main river channel.

• They are often referred to as "blind dolphins" due to the absence of lenses in their eyes, which renders them nearly blind.

• Despite their lack of vision, they possess a sophisticated bio-sonar system that helps them locate prey even in murky waters. The dolphins emit ultrasonic sounds that bounce off objects, allowing them to "see" the surroundings through echoes.

• Gangetic dolphins cannot breathe underwater and must surface every 30 to 120 seconds for air. Their breathing sound is also the source of the common name "Susu."

Conservation Status

• IUCN Status - Endangered

• Wildlife Protection Act - Listed under Schedule I

• CITES Status - Appendix I (protected internationally)

These fascinating and critically endangered creatures face several threats, and conservation efforts are critical to ensuring their survival in the wild.

Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT 2023, NEET 2023, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main 2023 application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.

For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board

For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section

For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section

For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Competitive Exams - Visit Notopedia's College Entrance Exams Section