Research conducted on presence, behaviour of pink river dolphin in Rupununi

The Manari Ranch, Field Museum Chicago, and local field biologists, supported by WWF, have conducted the first environmental DNA (eDNA) survey to assess the extent of the pink river dolphin in southern Guyana.
According to the WWF-Guianas in a release on Tuesday, the first-of-a-kind research on river dolphins in Guyana has been carried out in the Rupununi region, and is a crucial undertaking that would provide valuable insights into the behaviour and distribution of this species in Guyana. By studying this species, experts and local communities would gain a deeper understanding of its ecological role, habitat requirements, and potential threats to its survival, considering its restricted distribution in the Amazon region. Additionally, the findings of this research can help inform conservation efforts and management strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of this species and its ecosystem.
According to WWF-Guianas, through collaboration and data sharing, this research would also facilitate greater awareness and appreciation of the unique and diverse wildlife in the Rupununi region.
During the monitoring activities, researchers observed several pods of dolphins in the waterways of the Rupununi. Environmental DNA (eDNA) samples were collected in the dry season from 20 sites, with the presence of the pink river dolphin detected at 12 sites.
The study also saw the presence of 274 other taxa, representing a diverse range of species in the area. Follow-up rainy season eDNA samples are currently being analysed. The available data on the species, including extensive field observations, genetic analysis, and behavioural studies, would be incorporated into the comprehensive SARDI dashboard, which would serve as a central repository, complementing the data on the species from other range countries.
The river dolphin is one of the species that act as an ecological link, connecting Guyana to the Amazon Basin via the globally renowned Rupununi wetlands. The wetlands are critical to the survival of the surrounding communities, sustain vast ecosystems, and serve as migration channels for the river dolphins moving from the Amazon to the Rupununi during the wet seasons.
It was also discovered that river dolphins are present in the Rupununi region throughout their life cycle, and even during the dry season. However, more research is needed to determine if a local population of dolphins resides in the area throughout the year.
“The year-round presence of these dolphins in the Rupununi region has important implications for the conservation and management of this area, as it highlights the need for further study and protection of this valuable ecosystem, which can contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies aimed at preserving the unique biodiversity of the Rupununi region,” Guyanese field biologist Indranee Roopsind has said.
The research, which began in January of 2023, was led by Roopsind, conservationist Lissa Orella, and local experts Don Melville and Julian Orella. The team collaborated with conservation biologist Dr Lesley de Souza, who is a world-leading expert on aquatic species in the Amazon Basin of the Field Museum Chicago, and Dr Sophie Picq, an expert on tropical fishes and eDNA sampling, to incorporate eDNA sampling for this project.
Representatives of the local community participated in the monitoring activities, with the support of WWF, South America River Dolphins Initiative, and other partner organisations.
“Through partnerships with local communities and leveraging the power of science, we can make better progress in uncovering new insights into the lives of these fascinating animals and their vital role in the delicate ecosystems of the Rupununi region,” WWF-Guianas Country Manager Aiesha Williams has said.

Local knowledge
In addition to the research on river dolphins, a social survey was conducted among residents in Lethem. The survey aimed to evaluate the extent of their knowledge and attitudes towards river dolphins, including aspects such as their traditional beliefs, cultural values, and level of awareness about the species.
The preliminary findings suggest that the younger generation has a limited understanding and connection with river dolphins, highlighting the need for increased awareness and education among the younger generation in order to foster a greater appreciation and conservation of river dolphins.
The pink river dolphin (Amazon River Dolphin) found in the Rupununi is a different species from the Guiana Dolphin observed in coastal waters and estuaries. The pink Amazon River dolphin is also found in the Amazon and Orinoco River Basins stretching through Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador.