La Plata dolphin, Franciscana
Pontoporia blainvillei

Little is known about these river dolphins although they are frequently caught up and killed in fishing nets.

Subspecies
None.

Life span
Unknown.

Statistics
Body length: 1.3-1.7m, Weight: 30-53kg.

Physical Description
La Plata dolphins are greyish brown with a small head, rounded dorsal fin and forehead, and a very long slender snout.

Distribution
La Plata dolphins are found in the La Plata delta and along the east coast of South America.

Diet
La Plata dolphins feed on fish, squid and crustaceans.

Behaviour
They are usually single, but groups of up to five have been seen.

Conservation status
La Plata dolphins are classified as Data Deficient by the 2000 IUCN Red List, but numbers are being depleted due to individuals becoming entangled in fishing nets.

Notes
Little is known about the habits of these dolphins.


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