Newly discovered dolphins may disappear

The new Burrunan dolphin that Australian scientists recently discovered may disappear because they have small numbers and limited habitat.

>>>Australia finds new dolphins in Melbourne region

Researcher Stephen McKechie (Monash University) and colleagues say that Burrunan dolphins are smaller than regular big nose dolphins, but longer than the big Pacific dolphins. Burrunan dolphin is about 2.5m long.

The dolphin lives only in a small area in the south and southeastern waters of Australia. They have only 2 flocks for a total of 150 animals.

Because new dolphins live near seaports, seafood processing plants, and residential areas, they should officially recognize them as new species to better manage and protect them, Stephen McKechie said.

Burrunan Dolphin (Photo: Charlton-Robb )