It seems there are more types of humpback dolphins than previously thought. A team of researchers working for the Wildlife Conservation Society (WSC) has discovered a new species of humpback dolphins swimming in northern Australian waters.
The experts determined the species was uncategorized after examining 180 skulls and 235 tissue samples from various specimens, with most of the evidence coming from beached dolphins and museums. The new species has yet to receive a formal name.
"Based on the findings of our combined morphological and genetic analyses, we can suggest that the humpback dolphin genus includes at least four member species," said Dr. Martin Mendez, assistant director of WCS's Latin America and the Caribbean Program.
"This discovery helps our understanding of the evolutionary history of this group and informs conservation policies to help safeguard each of the species."
Humpback dolphins sport a unique bump just below the dorsal fin and can grow up to eight feet long with colorations varying from dark gray to pink or white. Scientists have long known about the Atlantic humpback and two species of the Indo-Pacific variety, the new findings broaden the family with another addition. The Atlantic humpback is currently listed as "vulnerable," while the Indo-Pacific humpbacks are "near threatened."
"New information about distinct species across the entire range of humpback dolphins will increase the number of recognized species, and provides the needed scientific evidence for management decisions aimed at protecting their unique genetic diversity and associated important habitats," said Dr. Howard Rosenbaum, director of WCS's Ocean Giants Program.
You can read the full published study detailing the findings in the journal Molecular Ecology.
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