Dolphin Protection Measures Intensified in Southern Iran Amid Habitat Threats

Environmental authorities in Iran are stepping up efforts to protect dolphins in the country's southern waters due to increasing threats from industrial activities and coastal development. Ahmad Reza Lahijan Zadeh, of the Marine Environment and Water Resources Department, emphasized the importance of raising awareness and implementing protective measures to safeguard these marine mammals. Dolphins are vital to the health of marine ecosystems, particularly in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, which serve as natural habitats for various dolphin species, including the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin. Conservation efforts include identifying and stabilizing key dolphin habitats, reducing human-induced threats, and promoting scientific research. Sixteen marine protected areas have been identified in southern Iran, seven of which are dolphin habitats. The expansion of industrial activities and coastal development poses a significant risk to these populations, highlighting the need for enhanced protection measures. The Marine Environment and Water Resources Department is collaborating with local communities, environmental organizations, and international bodies to enhance conservation efforts. This includes identifying Important Marine Mammal Areas (IMMAs) and employing modern ecosystem modeling techniques to assess water quality and physical-chemical parameters, aiding in targeted conservation strategies.