Indus River dolphin - Ecology & Habitat
The Indus river, near Tarbella hydro dam site, Pakistan.
At ease in turbid waters
The species is found in silt-laden, turbid water, at temperatures between 8-33 degrees Celsius (46-91 degrees Fahrenheit).
Life Cycle
Calves may wean by the time they reach 1 year of age. Maturity is estimated at about 10 years, and life expectancy is probably at least 28 years (similar to the Ganges River dolphin, Platanista gangetica).
Breeding
The gestation period runs from 10 to 11 months, with births occurring between April and May. The birth interval is 2 years.
Diet
The Indus river dolphin eats crustaceans such as prawns, as well as fish including gobies, catfish and carp.
Calves may wean by the time they reach 1 year of age. Maturity is estimated at about 10 years, and life expectancy is probably at least 28 years (similar to the Ganges River dolphin, Platanista gangetica).
Breeding
The gestation period runs from 10 to 11 months, with births occurring between April and May. The birth interval is 2 years.
Diet
The Indus river dolphin eats crustaceans such as prawns, as well as fish including gobies, catfish and carp.
