Humpback Dolphin

A new short documentary titled “The Humpbacks of Goa” is drawing attention to the fragile existence of the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphin along India’s western coastline. The film has been shot and edited by filmmakers Imran Tambe and Akhilesh Tambe.

The documentary is produced by the Dakshin Foundation and supported by the The Rufford Foundation and the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship at Indian Institute of Science. It focuses particularly on the growing dolphin-watching tourism industry in Goa and its ecological implications.

About Dolphins and Cetaceans: Dolphins belong to the order Cetacea, which also includes whales and porpoises. While most cetaceans inhabit marine environments, some species are adapted to freshwater ecosystems. Cetaceans are broadly classified into two groups:

• Mysticetes (Baleen whales):
  Includes species like the Blue whale, which filter-feed using baleen plates made of keratin.
• Odontocetes (Toothed whales):
  Includes dolphins, Killer whale, and Pilot whale, which use teeth to catch prey.

India is home to nearly 30 species of cetaceans, reflecting its rich marine biodiversity.

Humpback Dolphins in India: Globally, there are four recognized species of humpback dolphins, two of which are found in India:

• Indian Ocean humpback dolphin – found along the west coast
• Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin – found along the east coast

These dolphins are obligate coastal species, typically staying within 2–4 km of the shoreline and rarely venturing into deeper waters.

Unique Behaviour and Ecology: Humpback dolphins exhibit fascinating biological and social traits:

• They give birth underwater, holding their breath during labour
• They live in fission–fusion social groups, where group size and composition change dynamically—similar to human social systems
• Their close proximity to shore makes them particularly vulnerable to human activities, including tourism and fishing.

Source: TH