Matsu bidden to preserve Chinese white dolphins

The first national Chinese White Dolphin Conservation Promotion Day, which fell on May 8 on the Gregorian calendar, was marked at the protection education base of Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort on Hengqin Island, Zhuhai.

The Chinese white dolphin is called the Giant Panda of the Sea, and sometimes Matsu Fish. It was believed to bring good luck just as does the Sea Goddess Matsu. Therefore, Chinese White Dolphin Day, the first to be named after the threatened species, falls on the 23rd of the third lunar month: Matsu's Birthday.

Intended to raise awareness for the first-class national protected animal, the theme was "Learning About Chinese White Dolphin, Protecting Giant Panda of the Sea." The event was co-hosted by the Chinese White Dolphin Protection Alliance and the Department of Ocean & Fisheries of Guangdong Province.

College students join in

During the launch ceremony, the Chinese White Dolphin Protection Alliance purposed the public initiative to protect the species. Dolphin protection volunteers from Sun Yat-sen University and Beijing Normal University Zhuhai were presented with banners of endorsement.

A series of education sessions and parent-child activities was held. Specimens, pictures, text, and videos helped educate locals about the mammal’s habits, living environment, and protection measures.

The creature is a variety of Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin. It is born with dark gray skin that lightens with maturity, turning pink and ultimately white. Its population has been declining due to overfishing, marine pollution, collisions with vessels, and by offshore operations obstructing its biological sonar ability.

Launch ceremony [Photos by Cao Yanxing / Zhuhai Daily]

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area of the Pearl River Estuary is the largest Chinese white dolphin habitat in the world. Not only has it the largest concentration, but also a relatively broad portfolio of generations. More than 2,000 are estimated here, while the number worldwide may approach 6,000.

Furthermore, the Pearl River Estuary Chinese White Dolphin National Nature Reserve is the only such-level facility in the country. Out of seven nature reserves nationwide, six are in Guangdong Province.

Chinese white dolphins from Sentosa SEA Aquarium in Singapore now protected at Chimelong [File photo]