New Genetic Surprise for Scientists

Members of the South Pacific Whale Research Consortium Scott Baker and Rochelle Constantine have been carrying out genetic studies on the highly endangered Maui Dolphin, Cephalorhynchus hectori maui. The Maui dolphin is found on the West coast of the North Island of New Zealand, the smallest species of dolphin, the Maui dolphin is threatened by fish nets as well as human interactions on boats. Current populations of the critically endangered species lie between 100 and 150 individuals.

However, the genetic study recently carried out by the University of Auckland and State of Oregon, have found that out of 26 individual Maui dolphins, 2 of them were actually Hector's dolphins, both were females. Hectors dolphins and the Maui dolphin are both sub-species of Cephalorhynchus, and until genetic testing was first carried out, the Maui dolphin was called the North Island Hector. They are genetic difference between the species as well as physical differences.

The Hector's dolphins populations are doing much better, however their habitat is on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand.

So what does this genetic study prove? One of the principle factors is that the species could inter breed, this would occur if number of one species was threatening their survival.

"The potential for introduction of new genetic diversity through even occasional mating with Hector's dolphins is likely to be good for the long-term survival of the Maui's dolphin," said Rochelle Constantine, a lecturer with the University of Auckland who presented the results at the meeting of the New Zealand Ecological Society today (Nov. 23) in Dunedin, N.Z.

We hope that indeed through the conservation efforts of the Department of Conservation of New Zealand and their associates, as well as maybe some help from the Hectors Dolphins, will be a success and these wonderful and energetic dolphins, can once again begin to thrive in the waters around New Zealand.

For more information on the conservation efforts go to this website.