EnvironmentQuiet 43d · day 43
Humpback whales surge near Rio, but tourism boom raises conservation fears
Brazil's humpback population has rebounded from near extinction, attracting whale-watching tours—yet marine biologists worry tourism could threaten their recovery.
What to know
- Humpback whale populations in Brazilian waters have recovered from fewer than 1,000 in the late 1980s to nearly 30,000–35,000 today, following the 1986 global commercial whaling ban.
- Whales are returning to Rio's Guanabara Bay for the first time in centuries, with at least 18 sightings recorded, spawning a new whale-watching tourism industry.
- Marine biologists are raising concerns about whether rapid growth in tourism can coexist with continued conservation of the recovering whale population.
“I'm amazed at how a 50-tonne animal can perform such a beautiful leap that leaves everyone spellbound.”
Luciane dos Santos, Whale-watching tourist · The Guardian · Aug 11
Thiago Ferrari Director, Amigos da Jubarte (Friends of the Humpback)Theo Andrade Co-founder, ROC Sail whale-watching tour agencyLiliane Lodi Marine biologist, Ilhas do Rio research projectLuciane dos Santos Whale-watching tourist, drinks wholesaler
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