There has been very little study of marine mammals in Papua New Guinea (PNG) waters, most confirmed records from opportunistic sightings or limited dedicated surveys. As of 2007, 16 marine mammals were known to inhabit PNG... [ view full abstract ]
There has been very little study of marine mammals in Papua New Guinea (PNG) waters, most confirmed records from opportunistic sightings or limited dedicated surveys. As of 2007, 16 marine mammals were known to inhabit PNG waters. Although large whales are protected in PNG under a National Fisheries Whaling Act, there is no formal protection for small cetaceans. With the lack of dedicated study on marine mammals and lack of appropriate legislation results in limited knowledge of, and subsequent protection for, small cetaceans in PNG waters.
The aims of this project were to a.) provide a comprehensive review of marine status in PNG waters, and b.) critically evaluate factors that may influence the success of coastal boat based surveys in PNG.
The comprehensive review resulted in 19 marine mammal species being confirmed from PNG waters and this review included confirmation of two Vulnerable coastal dolphins inhabit PNG waters, the Australian snubfin dolphin (Orcaella heinsohni) and Australian humpback dolphin (Sousa sahulensis). These two species are not currently found elsewhere in the Pacific Islands. Limited local expertise, lack of government awareness and funding, high expense of surveys were identified as primary constraining factors.
The study have provided the PNG Government with a comprehensive summary of marine mammal diversity and important habitats in PNG waters. The data will be entered into a custom-made database facilitate incorporation of marine mammals in marine protected area planning. It is hoped that this study can now contribute information towards development of appropriate legislation to protect small cetaceans.
Topics: Conservation and management of tropical marine ecosystems
