Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in Xiamen Bay: threats and conservation

Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis), which mainly inhabits the coastal and estuary waters of the southeastern coast of China, has been listed as the first grade protected animal in the list of endangered and protected species in China. Xiamen Bay is one of the most important habitats for humpback dolphins and it is also known as an intensively developed area in the southeastern coast of China. Since the reform and development, Xiamen has experienced intensive sea exploitation that disturbed seriously on habitats and activities of the humpback dolphin. In order to protect the dolphins, the municipal government has taken a series of conservation measures, such as establishing nature reserves, cross-regional cooperation, fishery resources management, proliferation and release, etc., and has gained better achievements. The present study summarized the main threats to humpback dolphins in Xiamen Bay and conservation measures that had been taken for the protection of their population and habitats. Furthermore, we analyzed current problems of conservation and proposed suggestions for improvements, such as optimization and adjustment of the nature reserves, regulation enforcement and supervision, habitat ecological restoration, etc. We hope that the suggestions can provide new insights for the protections and management of humpback dolphins in Xiamen Bay and in other waters.