What kind of dolphin is the tucuxi?

The tucuxi is a small dolphin that lives in the Amazon River basin.

They have a body adapted to freshwater environments and have evolved differently from other dolphins. They have grayish skin, with a whitish belly and a slightly pinkish hue. They are characterized by their small dorsal fin and rounded head. They are called 'tucuxi' in English, which is derived from the indigenous Tupi language for this dolphin species. They are known for being very active and playful, often seen leaping and spinning in the water. They are also thought to be highly intelligent and have a complex social structure. They use various sounds and body movements to communicate.

What do tucuxis eat?

Tucuxis are carnivores, feeding mainly on small fish like piranhas, as well as shrimp and crabs.

They use their sharp teeth to catch prey. They may hunt alone, but they often hunt cooperatively in groups, herding and encircling their prey. They also use echolocation to find their prey. By emitting sound waves, they can understand their surroundings and pinpoint the location of their prey. This ability allows them to hunt effectively even in the murky waters of the Amazon River.

[Quiz!] Where do tucuxis live in the Amazon River?

Tucuxis live in a variety of places in the Amazon River.

They are found not only in the main river but also in its tributaries and lakes. They prefer shallow water and are often seen in water depths of about 3 to 6 feet (1 to 2 meters). They form small groups of about 10 individuals and are active during the day, foraging for food and interacting with each other. They can also be active at night.

[Quiz!] Are tucuxis endangered?

The tucuxi is listed as 'Endangered' on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List.

Their numbers have been declining in recent years. This is mainly due to human activities such as:

・Dam construction: Many dams have been built on the Amazon River, fragmenting their habitat.

・Water pollution: The water quality of the Amazon River is deteriorating due to agricultural pesticides, industrial wastewater, and sewage.

・Bycatch: They can be caught accidentally in fishing nets.

・Noise pollution: Noise from boats and sonar can interfere with their communication and cause stress.

To protect tucuxis, it is necessary to regulate dam construction and development, reduce water pollution, minimize bycatch, and mitigate noise pollution. We should also learn about the plight of the tucuxi and think about what we can do to help.