Dolphin Conservation Project

These last months research confirmed that unmanaged tourism affects dolphin behaviour, and observations of boat interactions were conducted to establish a baseline for future monitoring.

Our intern Maria from Wageningen University & Research (WUR) launched a photo-identification project to track the resident Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in the Mnemba Atoll tourism zone, creating a catalog of individual dolphins and estimating the population. This information will be essential for long-term conservation.

To raise awareness, an information billboard was installed in Muyuni, the main boat launch area, promoting responsible dolphin-watching practices.

Looking ahead, the Eco Guide Training, planned for April 2026, will equip local boat operators with the knowledge and tools to interact with dolphins responsibly. The focus lays on ensuring a sustainable future for both tourism and the dolphins!