Clymene dolphin  (Stenella clymene)

While the Clymene dolphin is currently not known to be facing any serious threats, the lack of research on this species means that the problems could simply be undocumented (2). These dolphins are harpooned in the Lesser Antilles and are sometimes caught in fishing gear in other areas (1). Bycatch is likely to occur in many parts of its range, but is thought to be most significant in the eastern tropical Atlantic, off West Africa, where considerable numbers may be taken in tuna purse seines. Clymene dolphins are also captured in this area for food (1) (2).

The Clymene dolphin is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), meaning that any international trade in this species should be carefully monitored to ensure its compatibility with the species’ survival (3). The lack of information regarding this species current status has led to the IUCN being unable to assess its risk of extinction, and thus it is classified as Data Deficient (1). Further research into this enchanting marine mammal is clearly needed, particularly into the impact of bycatch and intentional hunting in West Africa, so that conservation measures can be promptly implemented if required.