Ganges and Indus Dolphin: Platanistidae

River dolphins live in rivers that run through heavily populated and extremely poor areas. These dolphins are sometimes hunted for their oil, which is used in folk medicines for humans and livestock. Occasionally dolphin meat is eaten, and it is often used as bait to attract other fish. Dolphins are also accidentally trapped and drowned in fishing nets. Human development, such as dam building, water control projects, and pollution have all decreased the river dolphin population.