Landscape Change and Threats to Conservation of River Dolphin <i>Inia araguaiaensis</i> (Cetacea: Iniidae) in the Brazilian Savanna

ABSTRACT River dolphins are the least studied and most threatened cetaceans. Anthropogenic activities, including habitat fragmentation, pollution, and declining fish stocks, pose significant challenges to their survival. This study evaluated the effects of landscape changes resulting from human activity on the encounter rates of the putative species of Araguaia boto, Inia araguaiaensis , during the dry season. We observed heterogeneous distribution patterns of Araguaia boto along the Araguaia River, with a high occurrence in the middle stretch of the river. Regression analyses revealed a negative correlation between encounter rates and anthropogenic activities, indicating the possible influence of landscape change on species distribution. Our findings underscore the importance of conserving cetaceans as indicators of environmental quality and river ecosystem dynamics. Understanding the correlation between human activity, habitat alteration, and boto distribution is crucial for effective conservation strategies in river ecosystems.