People, Dolphins and Fishes of the Kinabatangan River, Sabah

The Kinabatangan is one of the worlds richest and most diverse riverine systems. A complex array of river outlets that meander to the sea are home to a myriad of wildlife, including Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella... [ view full abstract ]

The Kinabatangan is one of the worlds richest and most diverse riverine systems. A complex array of river outlets that meander to the sea are home to a myriad of wildlife, including Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) and some 1000 indigenous community members. The overall aim of this study is to ensure the long-term viability of the dolphin population, the sustainability of fish resources and the development of the livelihoods of those people that live along the rivers shores. To establish the underlying socio-economic status of the communities, a series of interviews were conducted with fishermen in the villages of Abai, Momiang, Pitas Laut, Tondon Bonghangan and Seri Ganda. There was a good response to the interviews with a total of 80 fishermen providing data. Most fishermen reported encountering dolphins 2-3 days every week an dprovided details of seasonal fisheries. In addition, members of the community were trained and employed to participate in systematic surveys for dolphins in both riverine and coastal habitats. Data from line transect and photo-id surveys indicate that small groups inhabit discrete areas of this complex system and mixing between groups appears to be limited.