Chinese scientists are making significant advancements in the conservation of the critically endangered Yangtze finless porpoise, achieving a notable 23.4% population increase over five years, reaching 1,249 individuals by 2022. These efforts, primarily focused on artificial breeding technology, offer a stark contrast to the dwindling porpoise populations observed in other regions, such as the United Kingdom, which are struggling with marine pollution. The success highlights a dedicated approach to wildlife protection in China for a species often referred to as the "giant panda of the water."
The Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been at the forefront of these breakthroughs, with the first Yangtze finless porpoise born in captivity in 2005. Researchers have since made progress with artificial breeding, impregnating female porpoises and monitoring them around the clock, with the tweet noting, > "So far, they've managed to successfully breed 5 of them, with more on the way." This captive breeding program aims to establish a sustainable colony and potentially bolster wild populations through reintroduction.
The Yangtze finless porpoise was upgraded to "National First Grade Key Protected Species" in China in 2021, signifying the highest level of legal protection. This designation has supported comprehensive conservation measures, including a 10-year fishing ban in the Yangtze River and its major tributaries, and the establishment of protected natural reserves. These robust government-backed initiatives underscore China's commitment to preserving its unique freshwater cetacean.
Conversely, porpoise populations in the United Kingdom, specifically harbour porpoises, face severe threats, with many washing ashore due to environmental degradation. An independent report indicated that the UK has been criticized for failing to adequately protect its porpoises, which are endangered by entanglement in fishing gear, chemical pollution—particularly persistent organic pollutants (PCBs) affecting fertility—and disruptive noise from vessel traffic. The tweet lamented, > "The bad news is that their populations are dwindling, with many washing up on the beaches of the UK due to pollution from southern waters."
The contrasting situations underscore the varying approaches to marine wildlife conservation. While the Yangtze finless porpoise benefits from intensive, state-level intervention and artificial breeding successes, the challenges facing UK porpoises highlight the persistent impact of pollution and human activities. The advancements in Chinese artificial breeding technology offer a potential model for global conservation efforts, as the tweet speculates, > "Maybe they'll be able to use this tech to save the ones in the UK, too, if they can't clean up their seas."