Dolphin sightings reassure ecological stability along Balochistan coast

Pods of bottlenose dolphins have been sighted in the western bay of Gwadar, offering a reassuring sign of healthy marine conditions despite the unusual green colour of the sea caused by a seasonal marine phenomenon.

According to WWF-Pakistan, the green discolouration is the result of a naturally occurring winter event known as the Noctiluca bloom, which has spread across Pakistan’s coastline from Karachi to Jiwani and has also extended into Iranian coastal waters.

What Is Causing the Green Sea?

The Noctiluca bloom has turned seawater a deep green in several coastal areas, particularly around Gwadar. While the colour change has drawn public attention, experts say the phenomenon is a regular occurrence in the Arabian Sea during winter months.

WWF-Pakistan clarified that the bloom is generally non-toxic and does not pose a threat to marine ecosystems under normal conditions.

Marine Life Remains Active

Despite the dense green waters, marine life along the Gwadar coast continues to thrive. Local fisherman Ameer Dad Khan reported that shrimp catches in recent days have been abundant and larger than usual, suggesting stable and productive marine conditions.

Balochistan Director of Marine Fisheries Ahmed Nadeem also confirmed the sighting of a large number of dolphins in Gwadar’s western bay, reinforcing confidence in the area’s ecological health.

Expert Assessment

WWF technical adviser Muhammad Moazzam Khan explained that Noctiluca blooms often increase marine productivity by supporting the food chain. He noted that such blooms only cause harm in extreme and rare situations.

Locally referred to as “badd aab” in Balochi, the phenomenon occurs periodically and is more common during winter. Moazzam Khan stressed that fishing activities have not been disrupted and fishermen continue routine operations without concern.

A Positive Environmental Signal

The presence of bottlenose dolphins—highly sensitive to environmental changes—is widely regarded as a positive indicator of marine biodiversity. WWF-Pakistan said their appearance confirms that the green sea condition has not adversely affected Gwadar’s coastal ecosystem.

Conclusion

While the unusual green colour of the sea has raised questions, expert assessments and on-ground observations suggest Gwadar’s waters remain ecologically healthy. The sighting of dolphins, along with strong fishing yields, underscores the resilience of marine life along Pakistan’s southwestern coast.