Gujarat : Dolphins Dominate Marine Mammal Sightings in Gulf of Kachchh

GANDHINAGAR: Dolphins have emerged as the undisputed stars of Gujarat’s marine waters, with a scientific survey recording 64 sightings involving 193 dolphins in the southern Gulf of Kachchh. The findings, released ahead of National Wildlife Day on September 4, underline the importance of the Gulf’s reefs, tidal channels and island margins as vital habitats for marine mammals.

The survey by the Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation covered the Marine National Park and Marine Sanctuary, India’s first marine protected area, between October 2023 and February 2025.

Boat-based surveys recorded 177 verified marine megafauna sightings involving 342 individuals, with dolphins accounting for 36.2% of all sightings.

“The latest study reinforces our resolve to protect Gujarat’s marine biodiversity and natural heritage,” said Forests and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia.

Narara Reef recorded the highest number of dolphin sightings at 14 involving 39 individuals, followed by the Dedeka-Mundeka island complex with 12 sightings involving 41 dolphins. Pirotan Island recorded 11 sightings involving 32 individuals, while Dhani Island and Sikka coastal waters accounted for nine and eight sightings respectively.

GEER Foundation Director B.P. Pati said dolphins were particularly associated with reef margins, island edges, tidal channels and open waters.

“Strong tidal currents in the Gulf promote nutrient mixing and can concentrate fish, creating favourable conditions for dolphins that feed on schooling fish,” Pati said.

A striking finding was the dolphins’ year-round presence. Winter recorded 26 sightings, followed by 21 during the post-monsoon period and 17 during summer. Researchers said this could indicate that some dolphins are resident or semi-resident in the southern Gulf.

The study confirmed the presence of the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin (Sousa plumbea), although species-level identification was not possible for every sighting.

Researchers observed solitary dolphins as well as groups of up to 16, along with coordinated swimming, directional movement through tidal currents and feeding activity.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Dr Jaipal Singh said the findings show how reefs, seagrass meadows and tidal channels collectively sustain the Gulf’s marine ecosystem.

GEER Foundation Deputy Director Amitkumar Nayak said continued surveys, species identification and monitoring of fishing and vessel activity will be crucial to protect the Gulf as a secure habitat for Gujarat’s dolphins.