GWADAR: A massive pod of more than 500 dolphins was spotted near a fishing boat in the coastal waters off Gwadar.

Marine experts and environmentalists have described the sighting of such a large group of dolphins as a positive indicator of abundant marine life, rich food sources and a healthy ocean ecosystem in the region.

Experts said the dolphins have been scientifically identified as Tursiops aduncus, commonly known as Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins.

Pakistan’s coastal waters, particularly along the Balochistan coast, are home to diverse marine life, including around 26 recorded species of cetaceans, such as dolphins, whales and porpoises.

Highlighting the ecological significance of the sighting, marine conservationists urged authorities and local fishing communities to strengthen conservation efforts.

They stressed that protecting dolphins, whales, sea turtles and other marine species is essential to maintaining the delicate balance of the coastal ecosystem.

Our Staff Reporter adds from Karachi: Amir Dad Khan, who was captaining a fishing boat, spotted a remarkable group of more than 500 of these dolphins leaping near his vessel in Gwadar, according to experts associated with the World Wide Fund for Nature Pakistan (WWF-P).

“The sighting of such a large pod engaging in playful activities in the shallow waters is a promising sign of a robust coastal ecosystem along Baloch­istan’s shores — and especially in Gwadar,” said Muhamad Moazzam Khan, WWF-P’s technical adviser.

He added that it’s an encouraging indicator of biodiversity and a heal-thy food chain in both coastal and offshore waters.

Published in Dawn, October 28th, 2026