Indus and Ganges River Dolphins, two separate species
Part of: GS Prelims and GS – III – Environment; Conservation; Biodiversity
In news
In a recent research, detailed analysis of South Asian river dolphins has revealed that the Indus and Ganges River dolphins are not one, but two separate species.
Key takeaways
Currently, Indus and Ganges River dolphins are classified as two subspecies under Platanista gangetica.
But according to a new study, this classification needs a revision.
The study estimates that Indus and Ganges river dolphins may have diverged around 550,000 years ago.
Conservation status
The Indus and Ganges River dolphins are both classified as ‘Endangered’ species by the IUCN.
The Ganges dolphin is a Schedule I animal under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972
It has been included in Annexure – I of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
