Tucuxi

Sotalia fluviatilis

Conservation Status

Endangered

Mammalia · Cetacea · Delphinidae

About

The tucuxi, alternatively known in Peru bufeo gris or bufeo negro, is a species of freshwater dolphin found in the rivers of the Amazon basin. The word tucuxi is derived from the Tupi language word tuchuchi-ana, and has now been adopted as the species' common name. Despite being found in geographic locations similar to those of 'true' river dolphins such as the boto, the tucuxi is not closely related to them genetically. Instead, it is classed in the oceanic dolphin family (Delphinidae).

Fun Fact

Studies of growth layers suggest the species can live up to 35 years .

Quick Facts

Habitat

Rivers and coastal waters

Diet

Piscivore

Lifespan

30-35 years

Threats

Fisheries Bycatch and Entanglement
Mercury Contamination from Gold Mining
Dam Construction and River Fragmentation
Hunting for Bait and Body Parts

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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