(Phnom Penh): Cambodia has recorded a new Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin calf, bringing the total population to 116, according to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF).

The newborn was spotted on Saturday afternoon (Mar. 21) in the Koh Santuk dolphin pool, located in Siem Bouk district, Stung Treng province. The sighting was confirmed by a joint research team from the Fisheries Administration and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

This marks the fourth dolphin calf recorded in 2026. Of the four, three were born in Kratie province and one in Stung Treng.

“With the addition of this new calf, the total population of Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins in Cambodia has reached 116,” the ministry stated.

The Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin has been classified as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List since 2004. The species currently inhabits a 120-kilometer stretch of the Mekong River spanning Kratie and Stung Treng provinces.

MAFF expressed appreciation to river guards, local authorities, and local communities for their ongoing efforts in protecting Cambodia’s vital aquatic biodiversity.
=FRESH NEWS