The Yangtze finless porpoise, once a common sight in China's Yangtze River, is now experiencing a notable resurgence, a direct result of dedicated conservation efforts.
Conservationist Yang He has played a significant role, meticulously documenting these elusive mammals through over 100,000 photographs, which have been vital for scientific research. His commitment was sparked by a profound moment of harmony he witnessed between a porpoise and a human. Yang has not only used his photography to advocate for the porpoises but has also actively participated in rescue operations, including saving a porpoise entangled in discarded fishing gear. This highlights the critical need for swift action and effective collaboration between conservationists and authorities.
These individual efforts are now bolstered by large-scale initiatives, most notably a fishing ban implemented in 2021. This ban has been a pivotal factor in the river's ecological recovery. Studies indicate that since the ban, fish populations have shown signs of improvement, with increased body size and a partial recovery of species diversity. The Yichang section of the Yangtze River, a former critical breeding ground, is now seeing more sightings of porpoise families, signaling a healthier ecosystem.
Technological advancements are further enhancing conservation. Intelligent monitoring systems, such as passive acoustic monitoring, drones, and AI-powered systems used by companies like Lenovo, provide real-time data on porpoise populations and behavior, aiding in more accurate tracking and protection. Specialized equipment is also being developed for the rewilding of porpoises, ensuring their successful reintegration into natural habitats.
The population of the Yangtze finless porpoise, which had drastically declined to approximately 1,012 individuals in 2017, after experiencing an annual decline of about 13.7% between 2006 and 2012, has shown a significant rebound, reaching 1,249 by 2022. This increase of over 23 percent in five years is a rare success story for freshwater cetaceans. This positive trend is attributed to a multi-faceted approach including in-situ and ex-situ conservation, captive breeding programs, and the establishment of nature reserves. The success of these measures has been recognized internationally, with methods like passive acoustic monitoring being adopted in other regions for cetacean conservation.
The broader impact of the fishing ban is also evident in the overall aquatic biodiversity of the Yangtze River basin. While challenges such as habitat restoration and pollution control remain, the progress made signifies a turning point for the Yangtze River ecosystem and its iconic inhabitants.