Vaquita

Vaquita

A vaquita swimming in the Gulf of California

The vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is a species of porpoise endemic to the northern part of the Gulf of California. It is the smallest and most endangered cetacean in the world. The vaquita is characterized by its small size, distinctive facial markings, and limited distribution.

Description

Size comparison of a vaquita to an average human

The vaquita is the smallest member of the cetacean family, reaching a maximum length of about 150 cm (4.9 ft) and weighing up to 55 kg (121 lb). It has a robust body with a rounded head and no beak. The dorsal fin is tall and triangular, and the flippers are relatively large. The vaquita's coloration is primarily gray, with a darker dorsal surface and lighter ventral surface. It is easily recognizable by the dark rings around its eyes and the dark patches on its lips.

Habitat and Distribution

The vaquita is found exclusively in the northern part of the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez. This region is characterized by shallow, warm waters and a high level of biodiversity. The vaquita prefers areas with a sandy or muddy bottom and is often found in waters less than 30 meters deep.

Behavior

Vaquitas are generally solitary animals, although they have been observed in small groups of up to three individuals. They are shy and elusive, making them difficult to study in the wild. Vaquitas are known to surface for air infrequently and are not known to engage in acrobatic behaviors like some other cetaceans.

Diet

The vaquita's diet consists primarily of small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They are opportunistic feeders, foraging in the shallow waters of their habitat. The specific composition of their diet can vary depending on the availability of prey species.

Conservation Status

A vaquita swimming near the surface

The vaquita is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The primary threat to the vaquita is bycatch in illegal gillnets used for fishing totoaba, a fish whose swim bladder is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine. Efforts to conserve the vaquita include the removal of gillnets from its habitat and the establishment of protected areas.

Conservation Efforts

Numerous conservation organizations and government agencies are working to save the vaquita from extinction. These efforts include increased patrolling of the vaquita's habitat, the development of alternative fishing gear, and international cooperation to reduce the demand for totoaba swim bladders. Despite these efforts, the vaquita population continues to decline, with estimates suggesting fewer than 10 individuals remain in the wild.

Related Pages

• Cetacea
• Porpoise
• Gulf of California
• Critically Endangered

A vaquita in its natural habitat