Dusky dolphin  (Lagenorhynchus obscurus)

The extent of the threats to this species are not fully understood, but major losses are recorded as a result of gillnet entanglement and illegal harpooning (1) (3) (6). Dolphin meat is in demand in Peru and blubber is used as shark bait (1). Although the dusky dolphin is believed to be relatively abundant throughout its range, very little survey work has been conducted and no population estimates are available (2) (3) (6).

Dolphin hunting was banned in Peru in 1996 (2), and the species is also offered some protection from international trade under its listing on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (4). Commercial dolphin-watching is now a major industry in New Zealand, but so far no large-scale or long-term adverse effects on the dolphins have been recorded (2). Conservation measures recommended for the dusky dolphin include intensive photo-identification, genetic and survey studies to determine population numbers, and further investigation into the levels of by-catch in gillnets (1).