Humpback dolphin

Humpback dolphins, belonging to the genus Sousa, are easily recognizable by their distinctive humps and elongated dorsal fins. These captivating creatures are typically found along the coasts of West Africa and throughout the Indian Ocean, ranging from South Africa to Australia. There has been recent discussion regarding the classification of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, proposing their division into two distinct species: the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin and the Australian humpback dolphin.

These coastal dolphins possess several unique features. They exhibit a hump just in front of their dorsal fin, a keel on their belly, and curved dorsal fins. Their diet primarily consists of mullet and other fish species. Within the Sousa genus, there are multiple species of humpback dolphins, although scientists continue to debate the exact number that should be recognized.

Recent research indicates that the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin may actually encompass three separate species, based on differences in their morphology and genetics. Conservation efforts for these dolphins are ongoing, as they are listed under Appendix I and Appendix II of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. Furthermore, a special agreement has been established to protect the Atlantic humpback dolphin in Western Africa and Macaronesia.