Vaquita
The smallest cetacean, critically endangered by gillnet bycatch.
The vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is a species of porpoise endemic to the northern end of the Gulf of California in Baja California, Mexico. Reaching a maximum body length of (females) or (males), it is the smallest of all living cetaceans. The species is currently on the brink of extinction, and is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List; the steep decline in abundance is primarily due to bycatch in gillnets from the illegal totoaba fishery.
Quick Facts
- Scientific name:
- Phocoena sinus
- Habitat:
- Northern Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), Mexico
- Diet:
- Small fish and squid
- Conservation status:
- Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct)
- Distinctive feature:
- Black rings around eyes and lips
Lore & Background
The vaquita was defined as a species by Kenneth S. Norris and William N. McFarland in 1958 after studying skull specimens. Fresh specimens in 1985 allowed scientists to describe their external appearance fully. The vaquita is most closely related to Burmeister's porpoise. 'Vaquita' is Spanish for 'little cow'.
Reader's Guide
Vaquitas are generalists, foraging on a variety of demersal fish species, crustaceans, and squids, though benthic fish such as grunts and croakers make up most of the diet. They are generally seen alone or in pairs, often with a calf, but have been observed in small groups of up to 10 individuals. Life expectancy is estimated at 20 years and age of sexual maturity is between 3 and 6 years. Vaquitas give birth about every other year to a single calf, usually between February and April.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does the Vaquita play in its ecosystem?
As a specialized hunter, this shy cetacean regulates populations of small fish and squid within the warm, turbid waters of its habitat. Its presence anchors a fragile web of life that is essential for the health of the Upper Gulf's unique environment.
Why is the Vaquita considered an indicator species?
The survival of this elusive creature signals the overall health of its marine environment, meaning its decline warns of a deeper ecological collapse. Because it is so sensitive to changes in water quality and fish stocks, its disappearance indicates that the entire ecosystem is fraying.
What are the primary threats to the Vaquita?
Unlike natural predation or disease, human industry poses the greatest danger to this species through accidental entanglement in illegal fishing nets. This anthropogenic pressure has pushed the population to a critical point where extinction is imminent.
What is the current conservation status of the Vaquita?
The Vaquita is listed as Critically Endangered and is widely considered possibly extinct due to its extremely low remaining numbers. Conservationists race against time to save this ghostly porpoise before it vanishes completely from the planet.
More in Endangered Species
Elsewhere in Living Planet
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced