Cambodia loses rare dolphin to suspected fishing gear, ministry renews calls to halt illegal fishing

PHNOM PENH, July 27, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has lost a rare Irrawaddy dolphin, suspected of becoming caught in fishing gear, prompting the agriculture ministry to renew appeals for fishermen to stop using illegal equipment to protect the country’s dwindling population.

The dead dolphin was found on July 24 near the Svay Chrum ferry crossing in Kandal province, the ministry said.

A joint examination by Fisheries Administration officials and WWF identified the animal as No. 018, a male aged 12–14 years, measuring two metres and weighing 64 kilograms. It had lived in the Kampi dolphin pool in Kratie province.

The ministry said the dolphin was the same one rescued from a fishing net on July 21 but was already severely weakened. A post‑mortem suggested it may have first been caught on a longline hook before becoming entangled in a net.

Officials expressed regret over the loss and urged fishermen to stop using illegal gear to safeguard the remaining dolphins. The ministry also called on the public to report distressed dolphins and illegal fishing activities.

The death underscores the vulnerability of Cambodia’s Irrawaddy dolphins, concentrated along the upper Mekong between Kratie and Stung Treng provinces. The species is regarded as one of the country’s most iconic endangered animals.

It comes after recent gains in conservation, with the population rising to 118 individuals, including a newborn calf spotted earlier this year in Kratie. The ministry said protecting dolphins requires cooperation from fishing communities, plantation owners and local residents to ensure survival for future generations.