Facts about pink river dolphin

There is also a debate about whether the Araguaian river dolphin (found in the Tocantins basin) should be considered as the fourth subspecies. Some scientists deliberate whether all the above subspecies should rather not be considered separate species.

Males are approximately 16% larger and 55% heavier than females. Their pink hue is also more vibrant.

It is gray when born.

One states their pink hue developed as a result of constant fighting with each other since their scar tissue is pink. Another theory states their blood veins are beneath their skin, and thus the color. Another hypothesis focuses on the fact that the pink hue allows them to camouflage against the red mud.

A full-grown dolphin measures up to 2,7 meters long and weighs approximately 180 kg.

They are the smartest of river dolphin species.

Front teeth are pointed, while the ones at the back are meant to crush their prey.

Their average lifespan in the wild, however, is still unknown.

Having more than one offspring at a time hardly happens.

They feed on catfish, small river fish, crabs, shellfish, crustaceans, snakes, and small turtles.

However, they can occasionally fall prey to anacondas, caimans, and jaguars.

It is due to unfused vertebrae in their necks.

They would rather emerge their snout above the water's surface than jump out as dolphins do.

They are friendly toward humans and are said to push them back ashore when they go too far in the river.

When the left half of the brain sleeps, the right eye will be closed, and vice versa.

When spooked or excited, the boto will flush pinker.

They tend to get killed by fishermen to reduce the competition for catfish. They also face habitat loss because of the construction of dams on the river. Since their reproduction rate is slow and gestation usually ends with the birth of one young, they are unable to replenish their numbers quickly.