The illegal wildlife trade is a multi-billion dollar industry that has damaged countless endangered species. Among the endangered animals are rare white dolphins, which are being hunted and sold on the black market at sky-high prices. In this article, we will delve into the issue of traders selling rare white dolphins on the black market, find out the reasons behind this trend, and highlight the consequences of this illegal trade.
What is the rare white dolphin?
The rare white dolphin, also known as the white dolphin or pink dolphin, is a subspecies of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin. These dolphins are distinguishable by their pink color, which comes from blood vessels near the surface of their skin. White dolphins are very rare and there are only a few hundred left in the world.
Reasons behind the illegal trade of rare white dolphins:
The illegal trade in rare white dolphins is driven by a number of factors. One reason is that white dolphins are considered a delicacy in some parts of Asia. In addition, some people believe that eating white dolphin meat has health benefits, such as improving the function of the skin and kidneys.
Another reason is that white dolphins are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Some practitioners believe that the white dolphin’s organs can treat diseases such as asthma and circulatory disorders.
Furthermore, white dolphins are used in the amusement industry, especially in amusement parks and aquariums. Traders catch and sell these dolphins to these establishments, where they are used to perform tricks and entertain visitors.
Consequences of illegal trade in rare white dolphins
The illegal trade in the rare white dolphin has devastating consequences for the species. Dolphins are captured using cruel methods such as trawls and explosives, often resulting in injury and death. Furthermore, dolphins caught from the wild are vulnerable and have difficulty adapting to captivity.
The trade also threatens the genetic diversity of species. Because white dolphins are so rare, the loss of even a few individuals can have a significant impact on the genetic makeup of the species.
Trade also makes economic sense. Tourism is an important industry in areas with white dolphins, and the illegal trade threatens the livelihoods of local communities that depend on tourism.
What can be done to stop the illegal trade in rare white dolphins?
Stopping the illegal trade in rare white dolphins requires a concerted effort from governments, NGOs and the public. The following measures can be taken to restrict trade:
Governments can enact and enforce laws prohibiting the hunting, capture and sale of rare white dolphins.
NGOs can raise awareness of this issue and advocate for stronger conservation measures.
The public can refuse to support dolphin captive facilities and boycott products that use rare white dolphins in traditional medicine.
Scientists can study the behavior and ecology of white dolphins to better understand the species and inform conservation efforts.
The illegal trade in the rare white dolphin is a serious concern that threatens the existence of this species. It is driven by demand for meat, offal and use in recreational facilities. The consequences of this trade are severe, including dolphin injury and death, loss of genetic diversity, and damage to the local economy. Stopping the trade requires a collective effort by governments, NGOs, scientists and the public to protect these special and vulnerable animals.
