Research Increases Fear of Maui Dolphin Endangerment

(I-TravelNewswire.Com, June 09, 2013 ) Orlando, FL -- The Otago University research findings, involving a community of about 60 bottlenose dolphins based in Doubtful Sound had depression implications for the future of Maui's dolphin, Professor Steve Dawson said about the research. This subspecies of Hector's Dolphins, the world's most endangered dolphin subspecies, is found only off the North Island's west coast.

Researchers estimate that only about 55 adult Maui's dolphins have survived, including fewer than 20 females of breeding age.

Conservationists have urged greater restrictions on gill netting to prevent the bottlenose dolphins from getting trapped and killed in the nets, but fishers are against the restrictions, saying that too many regulations could have a negative effect on the flourishing fishing industry.

Dawson, of the Otago Marine Science Department, gave an inaugural professorial lecture last week on the school campus about ''using science to save dolphins, and whaling without a harpoon,” to significantly reduce the number of dolphins accidentally killed by humans.

Bottlenose dolphins in Doubtful Sound are among the world's most thoroughly studied dolphins, he said in an interview. The researchers found that even if one of the key mothers (those that are of prime breeding age and could carry healthy calves to full term) was killed, the chances of maintaining the population was significantly reduced.

About Florida Dolphin Tours
Florida Dolphin Tours (http://floridadolphintours.com/) is Central Florida’s number one sightseeing tour and excursion operator. Florida Dolphin Tours is your guide and transportation to the best the Sunshine State has to offer. Whether you want to spend a day at kennedy space center tours or swim with dolphins orlando, Florida Dolphin Tours is your one-stop shop for the best sightseeing experience.

Florida Dolphin Tours

Customer Service

(877) 352-4646

reservations@floridadolphintours.com

Source: EmailWire.Com