In a move to safeguard the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, researchers and conservationists from across thirteen countries where these dolphins occur convened at the inaugural meeting of the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin Conservation Network (HuDoNet), held online on November 22, 2023. This gathering marked the beginning of a concerted effort to address the growing threats faced by these marine mammals.
Ada Natoli welcomed thirty-six participants involved in marine mammal research and conservation. Each member introduced themselves and shared their experiences, setting the stage for a collaborative approach to the challenges ahead.
The plight of the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin
Gill Braulik provided an in-depth look at the conservation status of coastal dolphins, highlighting the precarious situation of the humpback dolphins specifically. She discussed the multitude of threats these dolphins face, such as habitat destruction and incidental capture in fishing gear, and the ease with which their decline can go unnoticed.
All the participants share a desire to ensure that this does not happen to humpback dolphins. The network aims to foster a flexible community of conservationists, scientists, and policymakers. HuDoNet seeks to connect individuals and groups across diverse disciplines and regions to enhance conservation strategies through shared knowledge and resources.
Challenges and opportunities
One of the central challenges discussed was the lack of funding, which is made worse by insufficient data, capacity and a lack of public awareness. Participants highlighted the importance of creating partnerships within the network to facilitate the exchange of information and successful conservation tactics. Such collaboration could lead to improved capacity, funding opportunities and the implementation of effective conservation measures across the dolphins' range.
The members also focused on the need for a central information hub. Plans for a website were outlined, which would serve as a repository for essential research, unpublished reports, and educational materials which could be tailored by members to suit their situations.
To further aid in conservation efforts, HuDoNet discussed the development of a range-wide Species Conservation Action Plan (CAP). The network proposed initiating this with a situational analysis to assess current resources, needed capacities, and to consolidate existing data and identify important stakeholders.
HuDoNet’s Identity
The meeting was not just for scientific and strategic planning but also embraced a strong commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI). A dedicated subgroup was established to focus on these principles, ensuring that the network's efforts are always just and inclusive.
Participants reviewed draft logos, voting and providing feedback on three alternatives to identify what best represents the vision and identity of HuDoNet. A special thanks was given to the digital design agency, TechyApes, for their creative work designing the options.
As the meeting concluded, participants expressed optimism and a sense of achievement. Ada Natoli thanked everyone for their dedication and the proactive steps taken to form this pivotal conservation alliance.
The formation of HuDoNet represents a hopeful stride toward uniting voices and resources in a mission to protect the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin. As this network grows, it aims to draw attention to the species and drive significant conservation actions across its range.
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