On February 9, 2025, the carcass of a porpoise was discovered along the pristine shores of the Rashtami port in Bushehr Province. This incident has once again drawn attention to the status of marine mammals in the Persian Gulf, raising new questions about the threats facing these valuable species. According to KhabarOnline, environmental experts believe that such fatalities are typically linked to human factors, including entanglement in fishing nets, collisions with vessels, oil and noise pollution, as well as disturbances to coastal habitats. Porpoises generally prefer to inhabit estuaries, calm bays, and shallow shores, making them particularly vulnerable to even the slightest human pressures. The discovery of the carcass along the shores of Rashtami not only confirms the biodiversity beyond common perceptions in this region but also highlights the ecological richness of these coasts. Alongside the previously identified bottlenose dolphins, the presence of other species such as porpoises further underscores the importance of protecting these habitats.
Experts emphasize that the death of this porpoise is not merely a loss of an individual but a sign of the increasing pressure on the marine ecosystem. Ignoring these warnings could lead to a serious decline in biodiversity and disrupt the natural balance of the Persian Gulf in the future. Furthermore, Mohammad Amin Talab, head of the Marine Environment Department in Bushehr Province, elaborated on the status of this species, the threats it faces, and the conservation and research efforts undertaken. Talab stated that the porpoise, known scientifically as Porpoise, is a member of the dolphin family but is classified separately. They primarily inhabit the shallow areas of the Persian Gulf, particularly along the coasts and estuaries of Bushehr Province. He emphasized the significance of this species, noting that while porpoises are not considered extremely rare, they are among the important and valuable marine mammals in the region.
Talab confirmed the experts’ views regarding the role of human factors in the fatalities of this species, stating, “Unfortunately, factors such as entanglement in fishing nets and collisions with fast vessels are among the leading causes of mortality for these animals.” He explained that since porpoises are mammals and require air to breathe, they suffocate if caught in underwater nets. Additionally, collisions with motorboats and high-speed vessels pose a serious threat to the population of this species and other marine mammals, such as whales and dolphins. The head of the Marine Environment Department in Bushehr pointed out the province’s 937 kilometers of coastline, many parts of which remain pristine, noting that sometimes fatalities occur in remote areas where our teams arrive late. However, in cases where the carcass is accessible, experts promptly arrive on-site to conduct biometrics (measuring and recording physical characteristics) and sampling.
According to him, if there are visible signs such as injuries or evidence of entanglement in nets, the cause of death is hypothesized, and all documentation is collected for pathological analyses. Continuous monitoring of marine mammals is a priority for the Bushehr environment. Talab further discussed the ongoing monitoring program for marine mammals in Bushehr Province, deeming it one of the most important conservation actions. He stated that this program is conducted annually with the participation of experts in significant areas such as the Deyr-Nakhilu National Park and Rashtami port. In these areas, resident populations of dolphins are present, and their behavior, reproduction, and demographic changes are studied, with results published in annual reports. In some cases, carcasses become unidentifiable due to decay or turning into skeletons.
He emphasized that monitoring is not limited to resident species; observations related to migratory species and potential fatalities in remote areas are also recorded and documented. Even in cases where carcasses are unidentifiable due to decay or skeletal remains, efforts are made to identify their species. Talab considers this information to be highly valuable. In response to a question about the equipment used in these monitoring efforts, he listed the use of research vessels, lightweight boats, video cameras, binoculars, and telescopes, adding that experts optimize monitoring methods and navigation in marine areas by utilizing data recording tools and consulting with international specialists.
Talab underscored the special status of marine mammals in the ecosystem, stating, “All marine mammals hold exceptional importance due to their position at the top of the food chain, and all require continuous monitoring and protection.” He noted the species diversity in Bushehr Province, highlighting that different resident and migratory species inhabit various regions. For instance, the bottlenose dolphin resides permanently in Bushehr Province, while species such as the common dolphin and the striped dolphin are observed temporarily and migratorily in the area. Talab pointed out the primary causes of marine mammal fatalities in the province, stating that the majority of recorded fatalities, including porpoises and other species, result from fishing-related incidents. These incidents occur either through entanglement in fishing nets and subsequent drowning or collisions with vessels and motorboats. He emphasized that while natural causes of death due to old age can occur, the majority of fatalities are attributable to fishing activities.
