Date: Mon, 29 Apr, 1996
Dolphins in Hong Kong Waters Genetically Strong

HONG KONG (April 29) XINHUA - Chinese white dolphins in Hong Kong's polluted waters are genetically strong and show no sign of inbreeding despite the relatively small population, a research has found.

Today's Eastern Express reported that DNA analysis has revealed that the dolphins, believed to number between 80 and 200, are not a unique species, but a distinct genetic group. Researcher Lindsay Porter said different sousa dolphin populations in the world are all one species but they have been separated by geography, and through time for so long it is highly likely they are distinct genetic stock.

The genetic research will examine 50 tissue samples from sousa species in the region including those in Thailand, Vietnam and China, as well as in Australia and Africa. According to the report, genetic fingerprinting revealed variations among Hong Kong's dolphins, which is believed a good thing for a population because it makes them more adaptable to changes in the environment.

"It is healthy and well that breeding groups are mixing and there is no inbreeding," Porter said. Researchers have samples of sousa tissue from Xiamen in China and are seeking DNA from other populations. Porter plans to scour Chinese waters just outside Hong Kong this summer to assess dolphin distribution, the report said.



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